But Mum, I Did Study

He has no exams, but your lower-primary school kid has a plethora of mini tests, oral tests, graded assessments and show-and-tell presentations throughout the year. SASHA GONZALES shows you how to help him cope with the most common ones.

- Sasha Gonzales

“I didn’t have time to study for my test.” With so much on his plate, it’s important for Junior to stay on top of things – but this isn’t always easy.

So, when he learns that he has a test in a few days, he may find that he hasn’t got enough time to prepare for it.

Ensure he’s not cramming at the last minute by making studying a daily habit.

Consistent revision means he’ll be better prepared.

Charlie Spiller, head of Primary Courses at British Council, suggests working with your child to design a study timetable. Don’t forget to include fun or rest breaks and “spare” periods that can be used to go over any topics he isn’t sure about.

And be strict about him following the schedule. “Studies show that students learn better when there is variety, when different concepts or subjects are studied simultaneously or very closely, and when they’ve had regular breaks and enough sleep,” Charlie explains.

Lau Chin Loong, co-founder and curriculum director, Seriously Addictive Mathematics (S.A.M.), suggests removing or reducing any distractions, like TV shows or electronic devices, while he is studying.

“I thought the test was tomorrow.”

On top of making sure that Junior revises regularly, help him keep track of which tests are coming up so that he’s not taken by surprise.

Over time, let him manage his study and test schedules independently, suggests Chin Loong. So, don’t demand that he study for a test.

Instead, say: “I see you have a math mini test next week. Are you ready for it? What do you need to do to prepare for it?”

“I was so nervous that I forgot what I learnt.”

This is common when it comes to mathematical concepts.