When to reference:
Paraphrasing/
Summarising
Common reasons for loss of marks
•Not answering the question
•Not presenting ideas clearly (i.e. they are hidden in the answer)
•Not providing enough in-depth information
•Writing a descriptive rather than analytical answer – focussing on facts, rather than deeper, critical aspects of a topic.
Common reasons for loss of marks
•Not giving enough evidence of reading on the subject. This can be corrected by referring to relevant papers and reviews.
•Sitting on the fence when you are meant to provide an argument for or against something
McMillan, K.& Weyers, J. 2009 How to Succeed in Exams & Assessments Harlow: Prentice Hall
Effective research
•Try Google/Wikipedia to get started (but don’t use it in your references!)
•Use Search Summons (see Library webpage)
•Try Google Scholar
•Try different right key words when searching
•Go to a library session on ‘Finding
information for assignments’
Research tips
•Read the abstract
•Look at the reference list of a relevant article and then consult the relevant books
•You don’t have to read all of the journal article (Abstract/Introduction/Discussion)
•Keep checking your essay title / plan and make sure you’re research is on-topic
Preparing for exams
•Staying healthy
•Dealing with stress
•Exam time management
Preparing for exams
Physically
•Try to stay healthy -vitamin tablets, exercise, sunshine etc.
Mentally
•Keep the exams in perspective
•Talk to a counsellor at Bond if you want suggestions for nerves
Exam techniques – dealing with stress
•Don’t cram!
•Get a good night’s sleep. There is a strong correlation between sleep and academic outcomes (Johns et al 1976; Medeiros et al 2001; Trockel et al 2000)
•The most important thing is to be alert for the next day.
•Stay calm – it’s normal to go blank as soon as you see the questions.
Week 13
•Not a holiday week! You may have an assignment or exam this week so don’t book a flight!!
•Exam schedule comes out in week 5 – don’t book flights before you know your exam dates!
Exam techniques – time management
•Look over all of the questions first
•Work out a time schedule
•Keep your eye on the time closely
•Do the easy questions first to maximise your marks + make you feel less anxious
•If you run out of time use point form