Exam stress? No worries!
The most recent issue of Teacher magzine (yes, there is such a thing) had some exam preparation advice from Su Dorland (author of Exam Stress: No Worries). A summary of that advice is here:
- Understand the signs of stress,and recognise that they are likely to occur: irritability, procrastinating, sleepiness, ‘butterflies’ in the stomach etc.
- Set reachable goals; set goals for revision week, and even the day. Half-hour goals are as important as larger goals
- Manage your time, especially the demands of part-time jobs.
- Seek support from your teacher or peer study groups if you need it.
- Learn calming and relaxation techniques: deep breathing, calming words etc.
- Remember the positive aspects of your previous study experience; you can do it!
- Replace negative thinking with positive thinking.
- Work out how to get a good night’s sleep, and try to achieve it. Basics such as a dark, quiet room, layered bedclothes to adjust temperature, turning mobile phones off etc.
- Vary your revision methods; try summary cards, concepts maps, group study, role play.
- Schedule some ‘time out from worry’ sessions.
Exam Stress? No Worries is by Su Dorland and published by John Wiley and Sons
