Exam Day Confidence
As the big day approaches we have to make sure our students have what it takes to feel confident once they arrive at their Cambridge exams. If you are like me, you have been preparing them, because as they say, practice makes perfect, or as we say in Spanish, “para practicar es necesario arrastrar el lápiz.” I’d like to share with you a couple things that I know will help your students feel positive, assertive and self-reliant when they arrive on this final day.
· Remind them they have spent enough time training for these exams. If you remind them about the process they have had, they will realize they know each part of the exam, therefore they will be able to perform well.
· Ask them where they still have doubts. Go over the overview of the exam and ask them the generals about each part. Remind them about the tips and strategies you shared with them in each session for each part of the test and review the ones they still have doubts about.
· Don’t forget to share with them their skills’ results. Allow your students to see their mock exam results so they can remember where they have to focus their attention. Remind them to complete their strengths first, this will help them to manage their time better and will assure them a better result. Note: Do not leave any part blank!
· Remind your students what to take on the day of the exam (ID, pencils, pens, erasers, sharpeners, and a bottle of water in a clear plastic bottle). Check the time, and if necessary look for the address in the map. This will help them to be at ease.
These are some ideas for your students. I am sure some of you have great tips to share as well. Feel free to add what you need to your own list. I have applied these strategies with my students and they have helped them.
As a last tip, show up with cookies or a snack before the exams start. They will be thrilled to see you!