What YOU Can do to Maximise Your Term 3 External Preparation
✅ Academic Preparation 1. Review Mock Papers: Thoroughly Don’t just look at your marks. Go through every question you got wrong and ask: Why did I lose marks? Was it content, misunderstanding the question, or exam technique? 2. Make a Mistake Log: Create a list of recurring errors (e.g., forgetting units in physics, mixing up alkane vs alkene reactions, misreading probability questions). Revisit this list weekly — it’s often more valuable than doing another practice paper. ✅ Exam Technique 1. Refine Timing Strategy: Decide in advance how much time you’ll spend per mark. Practice skipping and coming back to tough questions — a crucial skill for maximising marks. 2. Use QCAA Criteria Sheets: For extended responses (Bio, Chem, Physics, English), actually mark yourself using QCAA criteria. Train yourself to write to the criteria, not just what you “know.” ✅ Mindset & Routine 1. Build Consistency, Not Cramming: Shift into a routine of 1–2 hrs daily revision, with spaced repetition. This will carry smoothly into Term 4 — no need for 6-hr cramming. 2. Reflect on Mock Mindset: How did you feel before/during/after mocks? Stressed, calm, panicked? Use that reflection to improve your exam-day rituals (breathing, sleep, routines). ✅ Support & Community 1. Ask for Feedback: Talk to teachers about your mock paper and ask: “What 1–2 things would boost me by 5 marks?” Apply that feedback systematically. 2. Collaborate with Peers: Form a study circle where each person “teaches” a tricky concept. Teaching = mastery.