🎯 Decode Keywords to Ace GCSEs!

Half term is here! 😌

With no exams for a week it is time to take a break, recharge and think about what is working and what is not. We will return to our weekly guide to exams after half term. Let us know using this poll ⬇️ if you have found the weekly exam guide format useful.

In This Email:

• What keywords does my child need to know for their GCSE Exams?

• So, why is understanding these keywords so crucial?

• How can they revise keywords effectively?

Keywords vs Command Words

In the last few weeks have you been thinking about how to help your child conquer their GCSE exams? The secret weapon might be simpler than you think - keywords.

Keywords in exam questions are like the secret code to unlocking the best answers. They guide students on what exactly the examiner is looking for in their responses.

Before we go any further let’s make sure we know the difference between keywords and command words.

Keywords are subject specific and are considered key language that should be understood and mastered in order to show understanding of a subject.

Command Words are words in a questions that tell the GCSE student how they need to answer the question.

Let's delve into a few common examples of Command words:

• When a question asks to 'State' something, it's simply asking for facts. No need for lengthy explanations, just the straight-up information.

• 'Describe' demands a bit more detail. It's not just about what happens, but how it happens.

• If a question asks your child to 'explain', they're required to delve deeper. They need to provide reasons why something happened or justify a particular outcome. They should be using phrases like ‘so that’ or ‘because’.

• 'Justify', on the other hand, is the examiner's way of saying, "give me the evidence." They want to see logical reasoning backing up an argument or decision. This could be a quote in English or data in Maths or Science.

So, why is understanding these keywords so crucial?

Well, responding accurately to these keywords can be the difference between a good grade and a great one. It's not only about knowing the study material but applying it in a way that ticks all the examiner's boxes.

In a nutshell, mastering the language of exam questions gives your child the roadmap to a successful answer. So, let's make it a priority on the road to GCSE success!

📚 Ace the Revision Game with Keywords!

So, you've grasped the importance of keywords in exam questions. Great! But did you know that understanding these power-packed words can also make a huge difference in the revision process?

Yes, you heard that right.

The revision process can seem long and tedious. It's hard to know where to start, right? Well, it doesn't have to be. By focusing on keywords, your child can ensure they are targeting their revision to the most important points.

Now, let's talk practicality.

How do you actually use these keywords when making revision notes? Our top tip is to use mind maps and flashcards. When your child is reviewing a topic, encourage them to draw a mind map with the main keyword in the centre. Then, they can add branches with related points and details. This visual method can help to cement the information in their memory.

Flashcards are another great tool. On one side, write a question that includes a keyword, and on the other side, write the answer. This technique is perfect for active revision and can aid in understanding and recall.

But don't stop there. Why not incorporate keywords into other revision methods as well?

Your child can watch YouTube revision videos that focus on specific keywords. They can also take quizzes that test their understanding of these crucial terms. The possibilities are endless!

Did you know that the exam boards normally publish subject specific documents that tell you the keywords students needs to know? You can find them in their specification but exam boards often publish additional documents too. A simple Google search can find them.

If you search; ‘[Exam board] + [Subject] + [Qualification] + Keywords’ you can find a good selection of documents.

For example, when I searched ‘AQA Science GCSE keywords’ I found this document on subject specific vocabulary.

Give it a try!

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Understand keywords to answer exam questions better.

• Keywords help target important points during revision.

• Use mind maps and flashcards with keywords for memorising.

• Engage with revision materials that focus on keywords.

Remember, revision isn't just about reading and rereading. It's about engaging with the material and understanding it on a deeper level. And keywords are the secret weapon to achieving this!

Good Luck!