Simulating Exam Conditions
Replicating real exam conditions during mock exams at home is essential for providing an authentic testing experience and preparing students for the real 7 Plus exam. Here's how to ensure your mock exams closely resemble the actual testing environment.
We provide exam answering booklets designed to mimic the format and layout of official exam papers. Encourage your child to use these booklets to familiarize themselves with the exam style and structure, including the arrangement of questions and answer spaces.
Before beginning the mock exam, take a moment to review the information page on the practice paper. This page typically includes important details, such as the time limit for each section and the allowed resources, such as pencils and paper. Familiarizing your child with this information helps them understand what to expect and how to manage their time effectively during the exam. Exam invigilators will often read out the instructions section to the entire group before the exam begins.
Make sure your child always has a clock within sight when completing a mock exam. And ensure they adhere to the time limit specified. This mirrors the timing constraints imposed during the actual 7 Plus exam and helps your child practice pacing themselves appropriately to complete all questions within the allotted time. When time is up, they must stop working immediately, even if they are halfway through an answer.
For parents, setting a timer can be a useful tool to track your child's progress and provide timely updates on remaining time. By checking in with your child formally at intervals, you can ensure that your child stays on track and manages their time effectively. Some exam boards may also specify timed sections during the exam, making it beneficial for children to practice working within specified timeframes. Always read through the instructions on the first or second page of the exam paper before giving it to your child. It will make any timings and reminders needed clear, so you can ensure they are adhered to during your mock exam.
Encourage your child to work independently during the mock exam, without seeking support or assistance from others. This mirrors the conditions of the actual 7 Plus exam, where students are expected to rely solely on their own knowledge and skills to answer questions. No notes or other materials should be in front of them except the exam paper.