1. The Language of Exams
Mrs Thompson

3. What are the examiners looking for?
Find out how to maximise your chances in each examination

4. Examiners focus on the positive
But help them out!

5. Read the question carefully Be positive
Legible handwriting
Plan your time
Number questions accurately
Use correct terms
Answer every question
Examiners want to give you marks but you need to help them.
Do you know what each exam needs?
Common mistakes – not following the instructions, not numbering the questions, running out of time, wasting time on short answer –a mark a minute, describing not explaining – read the question carefully
Understand SPaG
Don’t waste time on short answers

6. What are AOs? In History -
AO1 Recall, select, use and communicate their knowledge and understanding of history.
AO2 Demonstrate their understanding of the past through explanation and analysis of:
• key concepts: causation, consequence, continuity, change and significance
within an historical context
• key features and characteristics of the periods studied and the relationships between them.
AO3 Understand, analyse and evaluate:
• a range of source material as part of an historical enquiry
• how aspects of the past have been interpreted and represented in different ways as part of an historical enquiry

7. What are AOs? In English Literature-
AO1 Show understanding and knowledge of text – interpretation
AO2 Analyse language and structure – analysis & evaluation
AO3 Use context to aid interpretation – applying knowledge, remembering, understanding
AO4 Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation + Vocabulary and register

8. Decoding Exam Questions
Do you understand the language of the exam?

9. General exam hints Look at the marks available
Always read the question carefully
Be concise
Use correct terms
Plan
Use your time effectively
Stay calm!
If you come across a question that you don’t think you can answer… write something!

11. It is not easy but it is worth it!