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Parents' Notes

Unit 17: Practical Preparation for an Exam

Preparation

One of the best ways to prepare a student for an exam is to run a practice exam.

• Select one of the essay topics.
• Give your student one hour to prepare for the "exam". Allow access to notes, chat logs, the Natural Science I website. Have the student make an outline that includes an introduction, at least two supporting points, and a conclusion.
• Put away all materials, including the outline.
• Have your student write on the topic for no more than 30 minutes.
• Review the essay with the student.
  • Does the essay actually answer the question asked, or does it wander off into other areas?
  • Is it it clear? Are the ideas well-phrased? Are there ambiguities? Are any claims made precise? (Vague general claims are usually easy to refute with a single counterexample.)
  • Is it organized? Are similar ideas grouped together? Are the ideas explicitly connected?
  • Are there supporting details? Does it have examples that demonstrate the points or support claims made?
  • Is the essay repetitious?

Good writing, especially under exam condtions, is an acquired skill, and takes practice.

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