Exam season is creeping up like that one student who always asks, "Is this going to be on the test?" And as an educator, you know that well-structured revision sessions can make all the difference between exam success and sheer exam stress. But effective revision isn’t just about cramming. It’s about building confidence, reinforcing knowledge and making sure pupils feel prepared (not petrified) when they pick up that exam paper.
Here’s how to run revision sessions that actually work, without putting everyone to sleep.
Step 1: Set Clear Objectives
Think of your revision session like a road trip. You need a destination (aka what you want your pupils to know by the end of the session) and a clear route to get there. Pick key topics, focus on the tricky bits and make sure everyone knows what they should be aiming for.
Step 2: Know Your Audience
Your pupils all learn differently. Some love visual mind maps, others swear by good old-fashioned flashcards, and a few just want to talk it all out. Mixing up your revision methods—think group discussions, quizzes and hands-on activities—keeps things fresh and makes sure everyone gets something out of the session.
Step 3: Break It Down
Ever tried eating a massive sandwich in one go? It’s overwhelming. The same applies to revision. Chunk information into bite-sized, manageable pieces so that pupils don’t feel like they’re drowning in notes. Cover one section properly before moving on to the next.
Step 4: Make It Active
Passive learning (aka staring at a textbook and hoping for the best) doesn’t cut it. Get pupils involved! Try:
• Quick-fire quizzes – Because who doesn’t love a little friendly competition?
• Concept mapping – A fancy way of saying ‘draw stuff to make it make sense.’
• Teaching each other – If they can explain it, they really get it.
• Mini whiteboard battles – Quick questions, fast answers and no pressure to speak in front of the whole class.
Step 5: Encourage Questions
No question is a bad question (except, maybe, "Can we finish early?"). Encourage curiosity, clear up misunderstandings and create a space where pupils feel comfortable asking for help.
Step 6: Use Tech Wisely
You’ve got a world of digital resources at your fingertips, so use them! Interactive quizzes, digital flashcards and online study tools can bring revision sessions to life. Try these top picks:
• BBC Bitesize – For explainer videos, quizzes and past paper practice.
• Nrich (University of Cambridge) – A goldmine for maths problem-solving activities.
• TES Resources– Because teachers sharing their best ideas = instant win.
• The Royal Society of Chemistry Education– If science is your thing, this site has got you covered.
Step 7: Connect Learning to Real Life
Let’s be honest—sometimes pupils wonder why they’re learning this stuff. ("When will I ever need to calculate the area of a trapezium?") Show them how their knowledge applies to real life, whether it’s budgeting money, understanding current events or even impressing their friends with random facts.
Final Thought: It's Not Just About Exams
Yes, exams are important, but revision should be about more than just passing a test. It’s about helping pupils gain confidence in their knowledge, develop good study habits and feel ready to tackle whatever comes next.
At Protocol Education, we believe great teaching never stops evolving. That’s why we offer a range of CPD opportunities to help educators continue to grow and refine their skills. Whether you’re looking for strategies to enhance revision sessions or keen to explore new teaching techniques, our CPD Academyhas got you covered. Check it out today and take your professional development to the next level!
