Keep yourself on course
Last updated 15:51, Wednesday, 23 April 2008
SCHOOLWORK usually involves coursework and homework which allow students to show teachers how much they’ve learned in lessons. In the case of GCSEs, coursework can count for as much as 60 per cent of their final result along with their exam, so it’s essential to try and do your best.
n HOW THE INTERNET CAN HELP: The web has brilliant advice on how to tackle your schoolwork. There are sites out there that have been built by education experts, which can provide you with exactly the right kind of schoolwork exercises you need.
For example, you can visit sites that will ask you questions you’re likely to face during your GCSE maths or geography exams. They’ll even test your use of the English language with multiple quizzes. Here’s a quick guide to the kind of things you’ll face while at school.
n KEY STAGE 3 NATIONAL TESTS: Everyone takes Key Stage 3 National Tests in Year 9 of secondary school. These exams are also called KS3 tests. English, Maths and Science are compulsory.
n GCSEs: Most UK pupils then take GCSEs, which let students have a say on some of the topics that they learn. The best thing about this is that you can focus on the things that really interest you, alongside some of the compulsory topics like English, maths, ICT and science.
Coursework is part of most courses and can include writing essays, completing field reports, creating artwork, making products, or conducting investigations.
GCSEs are graded from A* to G. The grade you get will depend on coursework and exam marks. Students with strong course work marks face less pressure when sitting exams, so it’s very important to do your best.
COURSEWORK TIPS: The web can be a huge help while doing your coursework. As well as giving you lists of searchable questions and answers to all the major topics, some sites also let you email teachers with questions on how to tackle a problem or question. Here are some basic tips for getting on with your coursework:
If you have your coursework on a computer, always remember to make back up copies of your work
Make certain you know the deadlines when coursework must be handed in.
Create a schoolwork timetable. Your school should supply you with one, or you can print one from various websites. This can help you balance your revision and studies in a way that gives you free time to enjoy too
It is as important to take breaks when studying, as it is to study in concentrated bursts. Your brain can only absorb so much at a time
Ask for help. Everyone has difficulties with coursework, homework or revision at some time. Talk to your teacher before it becomes a big problem. They will be only too happy to help
Find out if your school has a mentoring scheme. If so, you may be able to get some tips from an older student who has had experience of preparing for exams and coursework deadlines.
