Coping from the transition from GCSE to A level

Education concept. Student studying and brainstorming campus con

It’s known to many that the transition from GCSE to A level can be very difficult. A level poses a lot of new challenges with a heavier workload, more complex content, and added pressure of needing certain grades for universities or employers. So, how can students cope with this challenging transition? Read on to find out more!

Put more effort in

It’s common knowledge that students who try hard often get better results than those students who abandon their studies. Students who revise consistently will be more likely to remember important knowledge in the exam to answer the questions effectively. Putting effort in will prepare you for exams.

Good grades cannot be expected if students do nothing to earn them. Whilst some effort might have been required at GCSE level, this effort should be increased to adjust to the big transition to A level studies. You can even go one step ahead by researching your subjects before you start the course, helping you know what to expect.

If you’ve not yet found the right revision method for you, now would be the time to do so. There are many revision techniques out there to try. This can include using flashcards, taking online quizzes, and creating mind maps. You could even take online past papers to get a feel for what your A level exams are going to be like compared to GCSE exams.

Coupled with the past papers are the mark schemes. These can help see the types and styles of answer that an A level examiner will be looking for when they come to mark your exam. Putting more effort into your studies in this way will make the transition from GCSE to A level easier.

Seek extra guidance

If you’re struggling with the transition from GCSE to A level, one way to try to cope with it is to seek extra guidance. This can simply be to ask your teachers for help. They’re getting paid for a reason and they’re qualified to help you through those all-important exams.

They’re an expert in their subject and they’ll have done exams themselves. This means that they could help offer advice. Teachers often have great resources to give to their students too. A lot of teachers are also willing to give up parts of their breaks and lunchtimes to help their A level students out. Therefore, you should definitely take advantage of this aid!

A teacher smiling at camera in classroom

If you’re not confident that you’re coping with the transition even after seeking a teacher’s help, online tutoring could be an option to consider. Whilst you will have to pay for this, tutors can offer amazing support. They focus all their attention on improving your studies, helping you target your weak areas, and cope with your academic difficulties. They could tailor their lessons specifically for you. Students with tutors often improve their academic performance, so it’s definitely something to look into.

Therefore, whilst the transition from GCSE to A level studies is often quite difficult, it is certainly doable with the right techniques.

If you, or your parents would like to find out more, please just get in touch via email at info@exam.tips or call us on 0800 689 1272

If you, or your parents would like to find out more, please just get in touch via email at info@exam.tips or call us on 0800 689 1272

New to exam.tips?