We’re thrilled to welcome you back for another edition of the BA Brain Boost blog! With the winter mocks fast approaching, creative writing challenges to conquer, and A Level coursework deadlines looming, there’s plenty to catch up on. Expect to find fresh insights, tips, and a little bit of fun to keep you motivated.
KS3 Spotlight: Power & Conflict Poetry 🎭
This week, our Key Stage 3 students took on the challenging and thought-provoking poem The Emigree by Carol Rumens. Exploring themes of memory, exile, and identity, they dove into this complex work with impressive dedication. The analytical skills they’re building now are not only helping them navigate the nuances of poetic devices and imagery but are also laying a strong foundation for their GCSE studies. While it’s a tough poem, our tutees are embracing the challenge and are well on their way to mastering it—there’s plenty of time to sharpen those skills!
KS4 Exam Edge: Guilt, Shakespeare & Creative Flair 🎭✍️
It’s crunch time for our Key Stage 4 students as they gear up for their winter mocks, which kick off for many on Monday. The focus this past week has been on Shakespeare’s Macbeth—specifically how guilt manifests differently in Macbeth and Lady Macbeth. From Macbeth’s spiralling paranoia to Lady Macbeth’s haunting descent into madness, students are analysing every nuance and bringing their interpretations to life.
On the creative front, our tutees have also been refining their responses for English Language Paper 1, Question 5. We’re homing in on key skills like crafting engaging openings, using varied sentence structures, and creating vivid descriptions that captivate the reader. Remember, every word can make a difference!
🚨 Last-Minute Reminder!
Don’t miss our Pre-Mock English Language Paper 1 Webinar on Sunday 17th November from 6:30-7:30 PM.
It’s your perfect opportunity to gain last-minute insights before your mocks.
KS5 Masterclass: Paper 2 & Coursework Countdown 📜
With the AQA English Language Paper 2 mock exam looming, our A Level students have been deep in preparation. Alongside this, coursework deadlines are approaching fast, but there’s no need to panic! Our sessions are laser-focused on ensuring every student’s coursework meets AQA’s stringent expectations: insightful context analysis, expert application of linguistic theories, and compelling original language investigation pieces. You’ve got this, KS5—one step at a time, and we’ll make sure you cross that finish line strong!
Mock Exam Tips of the Week 🎓
Bradley’s Tip: “Tame the Clock” Strategy
Once you’re seated in the exam room, quickly scan the entire paper to get a sense of what’s coming. Allocate time for each section based on its mark weightage, and stick to it as closely as possible. Research suggests that managing your time effectively can drastically improve performance by reducing the stress of running out of time.
Jemma’s Tip: “Reflect & Revise” Post-Mock Strategy
When you finish each English mock exam, resist the urge to walk away and forget about it entirely (even if you really want to!). Take 5-10 minutes to jot down what felt easy and what was challenging. This will be invaluable when you receive your feedback and can immediately address areas for improvement. Studies show that immediate reflection can lead to better retention and improved performance next time around.
Bradley’s Exam Quirk: The Lucky Pen & Learning Moments ✏️
Okay, confession time. When Bradley was a student, he had a ‘lucky pen’ that he swore was the key to exam success. This pen was the first item he placed on the desk at the start of the exam and the last item he removed from the desk at the end (Yes, really!) While it was more superstition than science, using the same pen gave him a sense of consistency and control—helpful tools during stressful times. While we’re not saying you need a lucky charm, having a familiar routine or item during exams can bring comfort and focus. What’s your “lucky pen”?
Mind Matters: Exam Day Calm 🧘♀️
The moments before an exam can feel overwhelming, but entering the exam room with a calm, centred mind can make all the difference. Try this: box breathing. Inhale slowly for four counts, hold for four, exhale for four, and hold again for four. Repeat this cycle a few times. Deep breathing calms the nervous system and boosts focus. Remember, a calm mind is a sharp mind!
Life Outside the Books: Birthday Bonanza 🎂
This month is a whirlwind of November birthdays for our family and friends, and we’ve been celebrating in style! From surprise parties to cake overload, it’s been a joyful reminder to cherish moments of fun and togetherness—especially with the festive season on the horizon. Here’s to balancing the books and the good times!
Special Festive Offer 🎁
Get ahead for the new year! Book two tuition sessions between 21st December 2024 and 2nd January 2025 and get a third session FREE to be used before 31st January 2025. Perfect for kicking off 2025 with confidence!
That’s all for this week’s BA Brain Boost Blog. You’ve got this!
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