Welcome to Study Skills 101
"Study Skills 101 - Steps to Learn the Art of Exam Success”
3 parts to build skills and confidence
Part 1: Building a Strong Foundation (Weeks 2-4)- 18th October - 1st November
In the initial three weeks of the course, students establish a strong foundation for academic success. They learn effective goal setting, time management, active reading, note-taking, study methods, and test preparation strategies. These essential skills form the basis for their journey toward improved study habits and enhanced academic performance.
Building a Strong Foundation - Understanding the What
Before diving into revision, it's essential to have a structured plan. Students will learn how to organise their revision schedule, prioritise topics, and set specific revision goals for each subject. We review effective time management, culminating in the creation of personalised study schedules.
Creating a Study Plan:
Set Clear Goals: Define specific goals for what you want to achieve in each study session.
Prioritise Topics: Focus on high-priority topics that carry more weight in the exam.
Time Blocking: Allocate dedicated study time for each subject or topic.
Use a Planner or Study App: Utilise digital or physical planners to schedule study sessions and set reminders.
Understanding What to Study
Review the Syllabus: If your teacher provides a syllabus, carefully review it to understand the topics and concepts that will be covered in the test.
Review Past Exams: If past exams are available, analyse them to identify question formats and topics that frequently appear.
Memory skills and Revision Techniques- The How
This module focuses on active revision methods such as flashcards, self-quizzing, concept mapping as well as active reading, note-taking, and studying. Active techniques aide memory and recall.
Effective Study Techniques:
Flashcards: Create flashcards for key terms, formulas, or concepts and use them for quick review.
Self-Quizzing: Generate practice questions or use available practice quizzes to test your knowledge.
Summarisation: Summarise complex concepts in your own words to reinforce understanding.
Group Study workshops: Access subject specific study classes or study groups
Memory techniques: Maximise memory load and learning styles
Part 2: Advanced Study Skills and Beyond (Weeks 5-7) 8th - 22nd November
In the final three weeks of the course, students dive into advanced study techniques, including test preparation, writing skills, and leveraging technology. They also explore stress management techniques tailored for exam preparation. The course concludes with reflection and goal-setting, ensuring students are well-equipped for academic success and beyond.
Part 3 - BONUS Sessions + Resources
Two bonus video recorded sessions, designed to take students academic journey to the next level not covered in the 6 week block but given as a guide for future success
Bonus Lesson 1 brings important reminders and tools for essential stress management techniques
Bonus Lesson 2 unveils the power of self monitoring and reflection.
These sessions provide valuable tools beyond the curriculum to enhance your academic performance and growth.
BONUS Video
Course Recap, Student Reflections, and Future Study Goals
Conclude the study skills journey by reviewing key takeaways, reflecting on progress, and setting future study goals. Celebrate your achievements and leave the course equipped with a comprehensive toolkit for academic success.
BONUS Written Guide
Test Success: Effective Strategies for Reading Questions and Preparation : Step by step guide
How to read instructions carefully and skim the entire test to plan your time.
Highlight keywords and pay attention to verbs that guide a response. Verbs in the question often indicate the type of response required. For example, "compare," "contrast," "explain," or "analyse" all require different approaches - learn what each one is asking.
How to prioritise questions, flag challenging ones, and use the process of elimination for multiple-choice items. Read all answer choices before making a selection, and answer questions in sequence.
Finally reminders on how to manage time, check work if possible, and stay calm under pressure.
Reading Questions and Crafting Effective Answers - The Know How
This part of the module provides teaches the ability to read exam questions strategically and craft precise, effective answers. Learn techniques to decode complex questions, manage your time efficiently, and showcase your knowledge with confidence.
Practice Makes Perfect:
Practice Exams: Take practice exams under timed conditions to simulate the actual test experience.
Review and Learn: Analyse your performance on practice exams to identify areas that need improvement and revisit those topics.
Strategies for Different Types of Tests:
Multiple-Choice Exams: Practice strategies like process of elimination and educated guessing.
Essay Exams: Develop outlines or key points before writing essays to stay organised.
Practical Exams: For hands-on tests, practice the necessary skills and techniques repeatedly.
Leveraging Technology and Online Resources - The Extra
During this section students , dive into the digital realm of learning. Explore how to harness online resources for research and study. Discover a range of productivity and study apps that can streamline your academic life. Equip yourself with the digital tools that will help you excel in your studies and stay organised.
Practice and Quiz Websites:
Use practice and quiz websites like Quizlet, Sporcle, or Quizizz to create flashcards, quizzes, and practice tests on your study material.
Test your knowledge and track your progress.
Educational Apps and Learning Platforms:
Download educational apps designed to reinforce specific skills, such as language learning, math practice, or coding.
BONUS Video
Stress Management
Discover practical stress management techniques specifically designed to help students stay calm. This can help during any school time especially exams or the start of a new year preparation. Learn to conquer test anxiety and maintain a positive mindset .
What does the program involve?
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6 weeks of pre-recorded videos + interactive support from the Educational Services Team
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You will be able to access and replay the videos to also provide support at home
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The collection of resources will be available on the portal. Access to visual aids, planners, digital tools, and apps to assist students in developing their executive functioning skills.
About Vanessa
Vanessa is a subject expert in executive functioning and language development, with over a decade of international experience as a speech pathologist. She has successfully operated Speech Pathology clinics in Tokyo, Sydney, and Auckland, with a particular passion for working with high school students. Through her customised coaching programs, Vanessa has helped over 1000 students enhance their language, literacy, and executive functioning skills. Respected by peers and high schools, Vanessa also understands the importance of collaborating with educational staff and parents to ensure her strategies achieve their intended goals.
