Preparing for SATs Exams
1. Create a Study Schedule:
- Balanced Routine: Establish a study timetable that balances schoolwork, revision, and relaxation. Avoid cramming and ensure regular breaks.
- Short Sessions: Short, focused study sessions are more effective than long, exhausting ones.
2. Use Quality Resources:
- Practice Papers. Utilise past SATs papers and sample questions to familiarize your child with the format and question types.
- Educational Websites: Websites like BBC Bitesize, and others offer interactive exercises and practice tests.
- Books: Invest in SATs preparation books which often include practice tests, explanations, and tips.
- Tuition: Invest in a few weeks of primary tuition from a qualified KS2 primary teacher.
3. Focus on Weak Areas
- Identify Gaps: Work with your child to identify and focus on areas where they need improvement.
- Targeted Practice: Use specific exercises and practice papers to address these areas.
4. Reading Practice:
- Regular Reading: Encourage daily reading habits to enhance comprehension skills.
- Discuss Texts: Talk about what they read, ask questions, and discuss themes, characters, and plots to improve understanding and analytical skills.
5. Maths Skills:
- Daily Practice: Incorporate daily arithmetic practice into their routine.
- Practical Application: Use real-life situations to practice maths skills, such as cooking to measure ingredients or shopping to calculate totals.
6. Supporting Your Child
- Maintain a positive attitude towards SATs. Encourage effort and celebrate improvements, no matter how small.
- Ensure a quiet, comfortable, and well-lit study space free from distractions.
- Ensure your child eats nutritious meals.
- Encourage regular physical activity to reduce stress.
- Ensure your child gets enough sleep, especially as the exams approach.
- Listen to your child's concerns and reassure them that their best effort is what counts.
- Teach relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness to help manage exam stress.
- Keep in touch with your child's teacher for updates on their progress and areas that may need attention.
The Bottom Line
Preparation for SATs is about creating a supportive and balanced environment where your child can thrive. Your involvement and encouragement can significantly impact their confidence and performance. Remember, the aim is to help your child do their best without unnecessary stress.
https://www.teacherstoyourhome.com/uk/blog/key-stage-2-sats-a-guide-for-parents
https://spaces.schoolspider.co.uk/uploads/207/grade/30230951_grade_file.pdf
https://www.satspapers.org.uk/Page.aspx?TId=5
