Can you create a revision schedule that balances the review of old notes with the acquisition of new knowledge?

Creating a revision schedule that balances the review of old notes with the acquisition of new knowledge is integral to a successful PSLE English Examination study plan. Both the Ministry of Education (MOE) and the Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board (SEAB) encourage students to engage in active revision, a process that entails reinforcing previously learned material while steadily integrating new concepts.

For the purpose of constructing a balanced revision schedule, the PSLE English Examination can be divided into four components: Writing (Paper 1), Language Use and Comprehension (Paper 2), Listening Comprehension (Paper 3), and Oral Examination (Paper 4). This framework enables the identification of the skills and knowledge required for each component and allows for the allocation of revision time accordingly.

A weekly schedule could be conceived in the following manner:

  1. Monday and Wednesday – Review of Old Notes: Dedicate these days to reviewing old notes, revising grammar rules, expanding vocabulary, and reflecting on feedback received on previous writing assignments. This could also include going through past errors in comprehension exercises to ensure understanding and avoid repetition of the same mistakes.
  2. Tuesday and Thursday – Acquisition of New Knowledge: Allocate these days to learning new content. This could include exploring new vocabulary, learning advanced grammar structures, and practicing writing different types of essays. Additionally, comprehension exercises can be used to expose students to a variety of text types and questions.
  3. Friday – Listening and Oral Skills: Devote this day to enhancing listening comprehension and oral communication skills. This could be achieved by listening to English radio broadcasts, podcasts, or watching English language films. Practicing reading aloud and holding discussions on various topics can also help improve oral skills.
  4. Saturday – Practice Tests and Mock Exams: Utilize this day to apply what has been learned throughout the week in a timed, exam-like environment. This could involve answering past year PSLE English Examination papers or other practice papers.
  5. Sunday – Rest and Reflection: Use this day to relax and rejuvenate. In addition to rest, this is also a perfect time for reflection on the week’s learning. Consider what worked well and what areas need further practice or understanding. Plan for the upcoming week based on this self-reflection.

This schedule maintains a balance between reinforcing old knowledge and acquiring new information, keeping the learning process dynamic and effective. However, it’s crucial to remember that this is merely a template and should be adapted based on individual learning styles, strengths, and areas for improvement. Always be guided by the MOE syllabus and the examination requirements outlined by the SEAB. Regular check-ins with teachers or tutors can help ensure you’re on the right track and making the desired progress.