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Final Exams and Students

The average high school student and the final fourth quarter examination have a relationship bordering on love and hate. Students can think ahead to summer vacation after that final exam. But, they have to survive it first.

Here are some tips to make sure your students survive the final exams, and move on successfully to greet the summer.

Preparing for the test

  1. Analyze past test results both to prepare and review for the final exam.
  2. Complete notes and other possible source materials.
  3. Set up a study schedule, indicating what will be studied and until what time.
  4. Self-test the material. Come up with a list of possible questions and answer them.
  5. Pay attention to study guides, pointers and reviewers. These have key concepts that will surely be part of the exam.
  6. Create summary notes to have the most important ideas in the class in hierarchical order and in a good visual framework.
  7. Create flash cards for definitions or formulas, as well as mnemonic devices for easier memorization.
  8. Make sure all important ideas, facts, events, characters, processes, and theories have been internalized.
  9. Identify and work on weak areas.

Before the test

  1. Arrive early.
  2. Bring all the materials needed (and allowed) like pencils, pens and calculator.
  3. Choose a good seat where it is comfortable enough to work without distractions.
  4. Be relaxed and confident. Stay away from other students before the exam as their anxiety can distract and stress you.
  5. Sleep and eat well before the exam.

During the test

  1. Avoid careless errors. Read directions carefully.
  2. Answer easy questions first before going to the difficult questions.
  3. Make sure to answer all questions.
  4. Don't leave as soon as you finish all the items. Review the test. Proofread for spelling, grammar, decimal points, among others.
  5. Relate the answer to a question to all materials studied.
  6. Be cautious when changing an answer. Try to recall first why the first answer was selected, and why the new answer may be a better choice.
  7. When answering essay questions, understand and identify what is being asked. Answer it directly and give supporting information.
  8. When answering multiple choice questions, read all options and choose the best answer.

Other online resources

Exam Techniques Canterbury Girls' High School
Examination Techniques NSW HSC Online
Hints on Exam Technique Student Study Notes Griffith High School
Summing it Up The Age Education News Exam Techniques for Mathematics
Passing Exams Faculty of Information Technology Bond University
Tips for dealing with exam stress Health Ninemsn
Some advice on examination technique and revision. Mike Holcombe
Ten Tips for Better Test Taking Study Guides and Strategies Joe Landsberger Test Taking Tips Study Skills Nathan Norris West Valley College
Tips on Studying and Taking Exams Study Skills Resources Cornell University

These tips, resources, and a healthy dose of “Good luck!” from you will surely inspire your students to ace the final exams you prepared.

Sources:

“Examinations: Preparation and Techniques.” Retrieved February 28, 2008 from
http://www.trinity.wa.edu.au/plduffyrc/library/study/exams.htm
“Preparing for exams.” Retrieved February 28, 2008 from http://www.studygs.net/tsttak1.htm
“Use your reasoning skills.” Retrieved February 28, 2008 from
http://www.barronsregents.com/regents-practice-tips.html

(Published 17 March 2008, Smart Schools Program)