The Clara James Approach to learning
When it comes to learning we are all individuals.
The past 20+ years have taught me that no matter our learning style if the child is engaged and relaxed they are more likely to learn.
If we just keep giving them the same resources, varied over and over again, all we are doing is giving them one place in their brains to find the information. However, by giving them a variety of resources we can make it more interesting, more relevant, and help them to create multiple memories so that when they need to recall the information, they have more places they can go to in order to find it.
If we can boost their confidence as well as their knowledge we will make their life and ours easier.
For 20 years now I've been fascinated by different learning styles: ASD, Dyslexia, ADHD. The purpose of this podcast is to share my findings with you, so that maybe what I've learned will be of help to you too.
The Clara James Approach to learning
Effective Revision Techniques for your GCSE exams
In this episode, we dive into revision strategies for English, tackling both general revision tips and specific advice for English subjects. Whether you’re just starting your revision journey or looking for ways to boost your effectiveness, this episode offers practical tips to help you get the most out of your study time.
Revision Techniques:
We start by discussing how to make revision more engaging and effective. Using multiple colours can stimulate your brain and make your notes more visually appealing, helping with memory retention. We also talk about the importance of planning—knowing exactly what you’ll do during your study sessions to avoid wasting time. Small, manageable goals can prevent burnout, and early preparation can keep stress at bay.
Comfort and Environment:
Next, we explore the idea that you don’t always have to revise at a desk. Finding a comfortable space and setting up your environment with everything you need (pens, water, books, etc.) can help you stay focused. Whether you prefer silence or background music, the key is creating an atmosphere that works for you.
Reading and Analysis:
We stress the importance of reading anything and everything. Daily reading can improve your writing, vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension skills. Beyond reading, practising analysis is essential for English exams. Whether you’re watching a TV show or reading the news, pay attention to why certain words or techniques are used. Why did the journalist choose that headline? How does it shape the reader's view?
Variety of Resources:
We also talk about using a variety of resources to support your revision. YouTube videos, mind maps, and past papers are all great tools, and we explore how using a range of methods can help make revision less monotonous. Additionally, post-it notes can be a surprisingly effective tool—stick them around the house in places you frequently visit to embed information in your subconscious.
Creative Revision Methods:
For students revising literature, we share a unique visual method for remembering quotes—drawing images to represent key quotes. For example, one student used illustrations to memorise quotes from *Macbeth*, which helped solidify them in his memory. Walking and talking about the material can also be a helpful revision technique.
Structuring Responses:
We wrap up by focusing on how to structure responses for English Literature exams. Instead of just stating "point, evidence, analysis," we suggest using multiple pieces of evidence for each point to ease the pressure of having to write deep analysis for every small detail. This approach helps to prevent repetition and keeps your essay balanced and well-structured.
Subtle Use of Quotes:
Finally, we recommend being subtle with your quotes. Instead of announcing them with phrases like "as stated in the text," try to weave quotes naturally into your writing, just as you would subtly drop information into a conversation.
If you’re struggling with sentence openers or need more specific guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’ve prepared sentence openers for questions 2 and 3 of the English Language Paper 1, here's the link to access them: Free Download: Sentence openers for GCSE English Language Paper 1 (clarajamestutoring.co.uk)