As the clock ticks down to the General Paper A-level exams, effective time management becomes your most potent tool for success. Let’s delve into a strategic approach for planning your time from the start to the end of both the Paper 1 Essay Exam and the multifaceted Paper 2.
Paper 1 Essay Exam: Crafting a Well-Planned Response
Choosing Your Question (5 minutes):
The moment the examiner gives the signal, swiftly scan through the questions. Eliminate those for which you lack content or find overly complex. Invest your time wisely by selecting a question that aligns with your interests and knowledge. This preliminary process should take no more than 5 minutes.
Planning Your Topic Sentences (10 minutes):
Dedicate the next 10 minutes to plan your topic sentences. This is a crucial step that paves the way for a well-structured essay. With a solid plan in place, you gain 1 hour and 10 minutes for writing. Reserve the final 5 minutes for a quick review of your essay. Sometimes, students face a blank or have overwhelming thoughts when approaching the questions and they don’t know how to start. Students at Indigo are a taught a step-by-step method to approach questions. The critical thinking structure will help students to begin the process of structuring their thoughts, analysing the question and developing an argument. A good planning process is half the battle won.
Paper 2: Navigating the SAQ, Summary, and AQ Sections
Strategic Approach to Comprehension (Start with Questions):
Against conventional wisdom, start with reading the questions before delving into the comprehension passage. It is especially important to read the summary and AQ questions first. By understanding the questions first, you approach the passage with a focused perspective.
Timing for SAQ (2 minutes per 1-mark question):
For the Short Answer Questions (SAQ), budget 2 minutes for every 1-mark question. For 2-mark questions, allocate at most 4 minutes. This ensures that you efficiently manage your time without lingering on individual questions. If you find yourself unable to answer a particular question, resist the urge to dwell. Move on to the next, ensuring you maximize the marks you can attain within the allocated time.
Summary Section (20 minutes, Including Point Identification):
Allocate around 20 minutes for the summary section. This timeframe encompasses reading, understanding, and identifying key points for your summary. Stay focused and concise in your identification of main points.
AQ Section (30 minutes):
The Application Question (AQ) demands a substantial amount of time for crafting a coherent response. Aim to spend approximately 30 minutes on this section, allowing you to develop a thoughtful and well-structured argument.
Final 5 Minutes for Checking:
As the clock winds down, reserve the last 5 minutes to review your work. Use this time to check for any errors, ensure clarity in your responses, and make any necessary corrections.
In conclusion, effective time management is the linchpin for success in the GP A-level exams. From meticulous planning in Paper 1 to a strategic approach in Paper 2, every minute counts. By following these guidelines, you equip yourself with the tools needed to navigate the exams with confidence and precision. Remember, it’s not just about answering questions but answering them strategically and accurately within the constraints of time.
