Effective study techniques and strategies will help you prepare for exams and tests. Here are some tips to help you.
Talk with your school and Advisory Teacher for Vision Impairments (ATVI) to establish what you need. This could include ensuring extra time, modified papers, support staff and using equipment. Use the following link for more information about exam arrangements: Access to exams and tests | RNIB
Start early: Begin your preparations well in advance.
Create a revision plan. List your exams and break these down into sub topics. This will help you identify areas of strengths and areas you need to concentrate on.
Understand your learning style. Do you learn better in the morning or afternoon? Have you got a quiet space to help you concentrate? Do you learn better by yourself or with friends?
Give yourself time. Rather than cram at the last moment, plan your study time into short, focused intervals e.g. 25 minutes of study followed by a 5 minute break. This will help maintain concentration and reduce visual fatigue.
Quiz yourself on key concepts or use flashcards to reinforce learning. Review areas you need to return to.
Explain concepts to family and friends. This will help your understanding.
Know what to expect. Use past papers to familiarise yourself with the layout and wording of questions. This can also help you identify areas you need help with e.g. reading graphs, measuring angles etc. You can download modified past papers using the following link: AQA | Find past papers and mark schemes | Modified past papers. If you would like past papers in Braille, please contact modifiedassessments@aqa.org.uk
Attend any revision sessions provided by school. This will give you opportunities to ask questions and ask for any additional help.
Make sure you rest and eat well. This will help you to perform well on your exam days.
Useful links
RNIB: Study skills advice: Exam and study skills for people with sight loss | RNIB | RNIB
Curriculum Framework for Vision Impairment (CFVI): Area 7: Accessing information supports developing exam skills: Curriculum Framework for Children and Young People with Vision Impairment | RNIB | RNIB
RNIB Bookshare: Download revision guides and key texts: https://www.rnibbookshare.org/cms/
Thomas Pocklington Trust: Education and Student support: Thomas Pocklington Trust
BBC Bitesize: BBC Bitesize provides interactive notes and tests across various subjects. Home – BBC Bitesize
AQA: Find Past Papers: AQA | Find past papers and mark schemes | Modified past papers