Extra Tuition Centre Blog

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2011-11-14T12:02:00.002Z

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2011-10-02T17:42:00.001+01:00

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Windows 7

2011-09-16T12:29:00.001+01:00

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Chrome

2011-09-16T12:27:00.000+01:00

Trying Google Chrome with Blogger

Eleven Plus Sheep

2011-01-09T16:22:00.001Z

The very nature of much of the present eleven plus `so called syllabus’ is that much of the work children do is determined by a `teaching situation’ rather than a `learning situation’. Eleven plus children have to learn approaches to a wide variety of questions and have to assimilate a number of facts and `methods’. Some have to be taught – others they can discover for themselves.

The point behind all the hours of preparation and exhortations by parents and teachers is that the children peak in those few hours of the examination.

Of course helping children to pass the eleven plus is not like herding sheep into a pen. Some years ago there was a popular program called (I think): “One Man and His Dog”. Here the shepherd was expected to herd his or her dog across an uneven terrain and then through a series of gates before ending the task in a pen. The dogs were trained to respond to shouted signals and whistles. Speed and accuracy mattered.

The sheep, however, were not the stars – it was the dogs.

Eleven plus bells and whistle contain at least some key pointers:

A few eleven plus papers are probably better that no papers.

Too many papers may spoil the child.

Too much pressure can be counter productive.

A completed paper is probably more valuable than an “I’ll do it later” promise.

Children must learn some things for themselves – they can not be force fed all the time.

Online Tuition

2010-11-15T15:42:00.005Z

We have been running online classes over the past few months. Children enjoy the technology. Parents love the idea that the expensive computer they bought is working to its full potential.

In the lessons children can write on a whiteboard, they can use a pen to draw or write on the screen and can generally enjoy themselves while they are learning.

We would welcome your comments on your reaction to on-line learning.

Extra Tuition Website

2010-01-16T13:34:00.003Z

Another dull and overcast day today outside.

In side HQ in Gravesend today we were very busy with new and existing parents.

Our teachers build and prepare their own lesson plans off our web enabled program etcACTION.

Parenst can also log onto their child's website and make alterations and suggestions about the development and nature of lessons.

What about Saturday?

2010-01-15T20:53:00.003Z

Last minute news on Friday.

All centres should be running smooothly tomorrow.

Children are arranging make up lessons for those lessons missed over Christmas and the recent snow.

Daily Chat

2010-01-14T21:39:00.002Z

All centres ran smoothly today.

The rain fell in our part of the world and the snow melted away!

Snow Today

2010-01-13T20:55:00.002Z

We are sorry to say that Tunbridge Wells is not running today. The snow is `deep and crisp and even!'

Gravesend is fine. We are beside the River Thames and this seems to keep much of the snow away. If any one knows why - please let all of us know!

Erith has problems too with snow. Once again it is the access roads that are difficult to navigate.

We hope more ships with salt from Spain arrive soon!

Make Up Lessons

2010-01-12T11:00:00.003Z

Parents are booking makeup lessons. Lucky children have misssed lessons through Christmas and New Year.

The snow also brought joy to some children as a few centres had to be closed.

Most children are opting to take their makeup lessons in blocks of thirty minutes. Our lessons usually last for an hour.

Changes in Life

2010-01-12T10:55:00.001Z

Going to a new school can be a daunting prospect and nothing can be more frightening for a young child than going to Secondary School. The amount of work and the way you are taught is very different from what you experience in Primary School, but the fear soon goes away and you become as familiar with it as the back of your hand.

Before heading to a new school, you may well receive a list of things you will need for your first day of school. Each school’s list differs but there are many things that they have in common. One of the most important things you will need is a calculator. Secondary Schools ask for students to have scientific calculators. They usually request a specific brand and, depending on where you go, you might be able to purchase one through the school at a discount. Nevertheless, there are many different makes of scientific calculator but they all work equally well, and they are not that expensive.

Secondary Schools expect students to write with a fountain pen or a ballpoint pen, in blue or black ink. Fountain pens look neater and ballpoints are easier to write with so it is all a personal choice. It also helps to keep a geometry set with your writing equipment, as you never know when you will need a ruler or compass. It is also worth purchasing a writing pencil set. These sets have pencils of different levels of softness such as 2B and 2H. If you are studying Art or D.T. you are going to need the different types of pencil.

Teachers will probably give out exercise books to write in, but it is good to have a supply of spare paper or a notebook to jot down anything extra. If you are learning a language it is worth getting a pocket language dictionary, as the teachers will probably recommend it in the first week. Also, if the Secondary School has science labs you’ll need to get a lab coat otherwise you cannot participate in any experiments or you may have to rent one for the lessons, which can be annoying at times.

Finally, you need the right attitude when going to Secondary School. You need to be willing to work at all times. Secondary School is very polarising and you will soon work out which teachers you do or do not like. However, you still need to work well all the time, as even the teachers you like will turn against you if you don’t do the work. Remember, at the end of the day, teachers are there to help you learn and make sure you succeed. Mind your manners; call your teachers “Sir” and “Miss.” Work hard and Secondary School is not as hard as it seems.

Simon Barnes 6th Form Dartford Grammar

Bright Children

2010-01-12T09:44:00.001Z

Imagine how bright you have to be to come top of the class!

Ten million Chinese children have just entered an examination - with only six million university places at stake.

There is a story about a girl with parents who invested in her through tutors. I hope that none of the families who attend tuition with us are stretched to the same degree.

Summer Holiday Bookings

2010-01-11T20:30:00.000Z

Parents are starting to book eleven plus courses for their children.

Parents can call for further information on 01474 321657 or through email on info@extratuition.com.

Extra Lessons and the Snow

2010-01-11T14:28:00.000Z

We have only needed to close a few centres because of the snow. Some of our staff, as well as parents, were snowed in and unable to use their cars.

Parents and children have made amazing effort to reach lessons.

Thank you very much to everyone!

All centres should be open this week.

Passing GCSE English

2008-08-30T11:38:00.000+01:00

Do you want to pass your English GCSE?

It may seem early to be thinking about your GCSEs that you will be sitting next summer, but the more work you put in now, the easier you will find it to revise and prepare when next summer comes around. The problem that most of you will be thinking is that you do not know how to revise when it comes to the subject of English. It may seem strange to hear that there is a very easy way to revise for English, and with a little bit of time, you can make it one of your most successful subjects.

In most cases, there will be two English exams that you will be sitting, your literature, and your language. This is certainly the case if you are with AQA examiners. Here I will concentrate on your language exam, as this is the one people find the hardest to revise for.

The first thing to do, is to note down all of the types of language that you can think of. This will help you when it comes to reading extracts, as you will be able to identify the types of writing being used. I have made a list below; see if you can think of more to add to this list.
• Formal language
• Informal language
• Factual language
• Opinionated language
• Persuasive language
• Descriptive language
• Informative language
• Emotive language
• Language to argue
• Language to advise
• Language to explain
• Positive language
• Negative language.

The next thing to do, is to think of as many devices that may be used in writing. When you read the extracts in your exam, you will need to identify the key devices and explain their effectiveness, to reach the top marks. Here I have written an example for you to demonstrate;
“the simile, ‘as cold as ice’ is used to show the snow Queen’s icy personality, and one which is cold and unpleasant to others.”

Here I have listed all the devices I can think of. There may be more which you will know and that you want to use, which is great. Once you have looked through this list you can test your memory by working through the alphabet, A,B,C,D etc and thinking of all the devices that begin with each letter. Then you will have your own list to revise from.

• METAPHOR (describing something by saying it is something else)
• SIMILE (comparing something to something else, see example above.)
• ALLITERATION (repeating consonants that sound the same, e.g red rose)
• ASSONANCE (words that sound similar with the use of the same vowel e.g sun surfacing)
• SIBILANCE (repetition of the ‘s’ sound eg sea splashing)
• COLLOQUIALISM (informal such as slang e.g yer)
• PERSONIFICATION (giving things/ideas human qualities e.g the jeep was waiting)
• DIALOGUE (conversation between characters, something that is used often in newspapers as evidence for stories)
• RHETORICAL QUESTIONS (a question that is usually left unanswered so that the reader can reflect)
• IMPERATIVES (give commands or instructions)
• INCLUSIVE LANGUAGE (language involving the reader e.g let us think)
• PARENTHESIS (added information with the use of hyphens or brackets)
• PATTERN OF THREE (three words are used together for effect, e.g courageous, cunning and clever.)
• QUOTES (used to back up a comment. You will use these in your writing.)
• REPETITION (same word or phrase is used)
• WORD ASSOCIATION (associating aspects to words e.g red=danger)
• CONTRACTION (two words shortened e.g do and not =don’t)
• SEMANTIC FIELD (words which are all connected e.g boat and waves are connected to the sea)

There are also the parts which you must always consider when you are analysing pieces of writing. These are as follows:
• What TONE is being used?
e.g is it sombre? bitter? enthusiastic?
• What SENTENCE STRUCTURE is being used?
e.g is it simple? complex with many clauses?
• What significant ADVERBS /ADJECTIVES/NOUNS etc are being used?
• What TERMINOLOGY is being used?
e.g religious?
• Can you see any SYMBOLS being used?
e.g is an object being used to symbolise a view or a feeling?

This covers most of the aspects that you will need to revise, and I hope you have found this helpful. To revise even harder, you should have a look at your class work and see where your mistakes are, and then work out how you can rectify them. Also, in your own time, you should find newspaper articles and try and find the devices and language types within them. To advance this further, you could look at a main event which is in the newspapers, and have a look at two different newspapers, such as a tabloid and a broadsheet. This will help you see the differences between different types of media, and it will show how different styles of writing are used to portray a story.

Below, is a piece of writing,(please note this story has been made up for the purpose of this exercise and is not a true article.) If you want to practice what you have read above, then read this extract and try analyse the extract in as much detail as you can. Then look at the modal answer where the extract is annotated for you to look at. This will show you how to get the marks.

MYSERIOUS FLYING OBJECT

Mr and Mrs Smith have reported that a strange flying object has been seen circling their village. This event was reported after 9 phone calls all suggesting a low flying plane could be seen. 27% of those who were in their home that night have reported this strange event, and it has left them feeling scared and confused. There has in history been several of these findings but nothing has ever been seen in this area and nothing of this much detail. Mr Smith claimed “an odd looking round machine was flying slowly in circles as if it had found its desired destination. I called for my wife to take a look and she was as shocked as I was. I first thought it was a low flying plane.” Mrs Smith added, “the lights were incredible, they were like a firework display, and not the type of lights that you would’ve expected to be found on a plane. As it got closer, I was sure it was a spaceship.” Now the community are looking out for any other mysterious visitors in the hope that they can explain this occurrence. What would you do? If you have anything to add please call 01333 3333333.

Modal answer:

Mr and Mrs Smith (Names used to identify with the people and also to make sure it sounds realistic)have reported that a strange(Adjectives used for effect) flying object has been seen circling their village. This event was reported after 9 (Facts to show evidence)phone calls all suggesting a low flying plane could be seen. 27% (Facts to show evidence) of those who were in their home that night have reported this strange event, and it has left them feeling scared, confused and annoyed.(Pattern of three, makes the words stand out.) There has in history been several of these findings but nothing has ever been seen in this area and nothing of this much detail. Mr Smith claimed “(Dialogue to give the story support)an odd looking round machine was flying slowly in circles as if it had found its desired destination(alliteration making the words stand out). I called for my wife to take a look(A colloquial phrase so we know he is talking.) and she was as shocked as I was. I first thought it was a low flying plane(repetition from earlier, shows that everyone is in agreement over what the spaceship looked like.).” Mrs Smith added, “the lights were incredible, they were like a firework display,(simile, this is effective and stands out, it allows the reader to visualise.) and not the type of lights that you would’ve (contraction to show it is spontanious speech)expected to be found on a plane. As it got closer, I was sure it was a spaceship.” Now the community are looking out for any other mysterious visitors in the hope that they can explain this occurrence. What would you do?(rhetorical question for the reader to reflect on the event) If you have anything to add please call 01333 3333333.

Helpful tips from Emma Burnett.

New Products

2008-07-09T20:46:00.000+01:00

We went to the Bexley festival over the weekend. We were demonstrating our new Parent Link. Parents have access to the content of their child's lessons - and can ask for on line explanation and help.

Robert and Luke worked hard over the two days - and chatted to lots and lots of families.

We had some fascinating visitors.

Cyber Bullies

2008-06-30T08:55:00.000+01:00

A BBC News article gives fascinating and scary insight into `Cyber Bullying'.

The old saying: "Sticks and stone can hurt my bones, but words will never hurt me," may be true for some types of bullying. Cyber bullying, however, allows thousands of people to witness humiliation.

All we can hope is that our children, and the children we teach, talk to us.

GCSE English

2008-06-29T17:54:00.000+01:00

More changes are being proposed in GCSE English examinations. Teachers and parents are always `going on about' the need to read more. This latest consultation is suggesting that it should be possible to pass one form of a GCSE English examination without actually reading a book or a play.

The new examination will encourage children to read and write for real life purposes.

Independent Learning

2008-06-07T10:07:00.001+01:00

How different is it being taught by a teacher and being lectured by a lecturer?

All through our childhood, we learn that one of the best skills we have is to listen, and this skill we use throughout our lives. However, in school we are also taught to ask questions when we do not understand a topic or a theory, and this in itself makes us all better learners. This is where the main difference stems from when making the transition to a university, or higher education institution. It becomes harder and less necessary to rely on your teacher.

Much of the work done at higher level is based on independent learning, so a lot of initiative is required. This is something which at first is hard to do, as we have been taught all our lives to “listen to the teacher” and in doing so, we trust their opinions are the most important. This greatly changes at degree level, where your opinions and views become of most importance, making the topics discussed and lectured become diverse. This is what makes higher education so interesting, the varying opinions everyone has. This often depends on culture, or where and how someone has been brought up, and in a place where the diversity of people is great, so are the opinions.

When a lecturer gives their talk, there is little interaction, which at first seems strange, as this is greatly different from a school, however, by the lecturer giving the outline of main ideas, it creates opportunities to use these ideas and expand on them, which shapes each person’s work, making it their own.

The main skills needed at a higher level are independent learning, being confident with your own ideas, and being able to adapt to a new situation. These may seem hard to achieve at first, but the ability to be able to do this, comes from the school education we all have, and it is here we grow in confidence and able us to take on these new opportunities.

Emma Burnett

Parents Enjoying The Gym - Children Enjoying Lessons.

2008-06-04T20:19:00.000+01:00

Max Davidson, writing in the Telegraph, discusses findings from a University of Sheffield study which found that children score better in reading, maths and vocabulary tests the more socially active their parents are.

The article suggests that parents should become socially active - and stay away from being couch potatoes.

The Extra Tuition Centre teaches, where possible, in leisure centres - to try to help children understand that learning can be considered as a recreational activity.

Some parents do attend the gym or go for a swim while their child is having a lesson. This must be a `wholesome' outcome.

Bright Children

2008-05-29T08:21:00.000+01:00

Bright children sometimes need extra tuition to stimulate and enrich their lives.

The Independent Today has an interesting article.

Congratulations at passing!

2008-05-28T14:38:00.000+01:00

University student won't be able to throw their caps is the year after graduating.

Rules are petty sometimes. We suppose that some poor person was injured - hence the need for new regulations.

Reading in the Holidays

2008-05-28T11:47:00.000+01:00

Children need to keep reading over the summer holidays. Link to the Independent.

Prize Winners

2007-10-20T14:48:00.000+01:00

SHORTLIST for the Man Booker Prize (These can be ordered through our Book Shop.)
9780007193622 Darkmans Harper Collins 17.99 H
9780224078733 Gathering Chatto Bodley H 12.99 H
9780241143650 Reluctant Fundamentalist Hamish Hamilton 14.99 H
9780719564567 Mister Pip John Murray 12.99 H
9780224081184 On Chesil Beach Chatto Bodley H 12.99 H
9780743259200 Animals People Simon & Schuste 11.99 P

Anne Enright has been named as the the winner of the £50,000 Man Booker Prize for Fiction for her novel The Gathering.

Synopsis:

The nine surviving children of the Hegarty clan gather in Dublin for the wake of their wayward brother Liam. It wasn't the drink that killed him - although that certainly helped - it was what happened to him as a boy in his grandmother's house, in the winter of 1968.
A remarkable new novel - a family epic - from one of Ireland's most important and innovative writers.

The English Teacher who excited Anne Enright's interest in English and writing must be a very proud person.

I hope one day one of our children will also be a Man Booker Prize winner.

Doris Lessing

2007-10-15T09:29:00.001+01:00

Doris Lessing used to come to our house for tea on a Sunday afternoon. She was among a group of rather liberal friends of my parents. Over the years I have known of her as a writer and a political commentator. Her early books were on the shelves of my parent’s house.

To be awarded the Nobel Prize in any field must be an amazing experience. To be awarded a prize because of championing political injustice and the plight of women must add to the lustre.

What a Day!

2007-09-29T15:51:00.000+01:00

What a day!
I start my day at half past nine,
Get my bag and join the line,
Class begins discussion ends,
No more laughing with my friends.

I do my work and hand it in,
The next piece I will begin.
The time comes to have a break,
And make myself more awake.

More work needs to be done,
Another story I’ve just begun.
The bell rings at half past one
Time for playing in the sun.

Afternoon and I’m tired out,
The teacher then begins to shout.
I do my work and watch the clock,
Three fifteen, what a shock!

I race back home in time for tea,
Sit at the table with my family.
We eat our food and talk some more,
And tell some stories just before,

I go to bed, turn out my light,
Ready to rest for another night.
I think about the day I’ve had,
Then say goodnight to mum and dad.

My alarm wakes me at ten to eight,
I get up, do not want to be late.
School again, better be on my way,
What exciting things do I have today?

Emma Burnett (18)

Look to the future

2007-09-29T15:50:00.000+01:00

I can’t count the amount of times I used to hear the words, “do your work, don’t waste time watching television!” I moaned at the thought of having to work and spend my time learning. I’m sure this is familiar in most households and especially at that crucial time when exams commence.

It is only now, after doing my A levels that I realise just how crucial that line is, the line that used to ring through my ears every time I reached for the remote! I have just started my course at Kent University and I am studying English language and comparative literary studies. I am very pleased with the progress I have made and am in a lucky situation of having no regrets about my past academic experiences. This is a situation many are in but also one which many want to be in.

That is why putting the effort in early is so important and why so many people have joined ETC to improve their skills and abilities. As a teacher here of those in secondary education, I can see now more than ever how determination plays an important role in success. Watching people improve their understanding and confidence makes this job very rewarding, and I feel privileged to be able to be a part of this process.

Just remember, what so many people forget, if you put in the effort now, it will pay off in the future. And don’t be afraid to ask for help, there are a lot of people who can offer their advice.

Emma

Non Fiction Books

2007-09-21T16:50:00.000+01:00

Some Non Fiction Ideas.

Just cut the ISBN number and paste it into our bookshop's Look Up section.

9781845900649 - They Did, You Can - Michael Finnigan - £12.99 - P/B
How to achieve whatever you want in life with the help of your sporting heroes. Written for teenagers who are under achieving in sport. The sporting heroes who have contributed to this book want to share their stories of success to try and make a difference to these children.

9780746088623 - 100 Things to Spot in the Night Sky - Philip Clarke - £5.99 - P/B
A brand new set of cards in the Spotter's Guide series, which are perfect for astronomical enthusiasts young and old.

9781406311167 - Blame My Brain - Nicola Morgan - £5.99 - P/B
9781406304152 - Know Your Brain - Nicola Morgan - £5.99 - P/B
A comprehensive guide to the biological mysteries that lie behind teenage behaviour. This carefully researched, accessible and humorous examination of the ups and downs of the teenage brain has chapters dealing with powerful emotions, the need for more sleep, the urge to take risks, the difference between genders, the reasons behind addiction or depression, and what lies ahead.

Books for Older Children

2007-08-24T14:26:00.000+01:00

We are often asked about books for teenagers. This is a selection of new books.

9780747591658 - Memoirs Of A Teenage Amnesiac - Gabrielle Zevin - £6.99 - P/B
When Naomi tries to piece back the fragments of the last three and a half years of her life, she discovers a lot. She has a boyfriend but can't remember him, her mother and father are divorced, and she has forgotten that she is supposed to hate her mother. She also has a group of friends which simply doesn't seem that attractive anymore and, despite having meticulously kept a diary, she only mentioned what she ate every day in it

9780747586098 – Teacher’s Dead - Benjamin Zephaniah - £6.99 - P/B
'My name is Jackson Jones. I stood and watched a teacher die. For the first time in my life I felt real shock. I didn't panic, I just froze... My whole body actually went numb. They say the brain is like a computer - well, my computer crashed.' A teacher is dead, murdered by two of his students in front of the school. He was a good man. People liked him. So how could this happen? Why? Benjamin Zephaniah has, once again, chosen a topical and hard-hitting subject - and he deals with it in his own uniquely empathetic and edgy way.

9780747589228 - Uncle Montagues Tales Of Terror - Chris Priestley - £9.99 - H/B
A chilling, scare-packed novel with more than enough fear factor for the most ardent terror fan.

9780955156632 - My Brother Johnny - Francesco Dadamo - £6.99 - P/B
Johnny is a young airman who's flown dozens of missions. When he comes home from the war, his family and friends greet him as a hero. But Johnny doesn't feel like a hero. He's sick at the thought of the destruction he's caused to people in the villages over there. What's wrong with him? Why is he doing this? And when he sets up an anti-war protest in the centre of town, nobody wants to listen. Until the war comes home to them, that is.

9781405233491 - Mirrorscape - Mike Wilks - £6.99 - P/B
Fulfilling the dream of a lifetime, Melkin Womper is apprenticed to a master painter, Ambrosius Blenk. Son of a village weaver, Mel is overawed by the master's richly coloured, vividly detailed paintings. He is amazed by the colour because back home there is none and to have colour in your life you have to buy the Pleasure, and the sinister scarlet-robed Fifth Mystery own the rights to such Pleasures.
9781405234047 - Mirrorscape Mobile - Mike Wilks - Free
9781405234054 - Mirrorscape Poster - Mike Wilks - Free

The wait

2007-07-20T12:24:00.000+01:00

The wait for your results is a nerve-racking time. The long summer in between you and, what it seems like, your life’s determination. Thinking about what questions you’ve missed out, what ones you think you’ve done well on, and the ones that were a total disaster! But a week later, it’s all forgotten! Enjoying the extra time that you have, now that it’s not devoted to revision, hating when someone says, “Oh, your results will be here soon. How’d you think you did”! In the back of your mind you are still aware of that upcoming day, feeling both anxious and eager.

When the day comes, and you are finally holding that envelope in your hand, you delay the process of opening it, as if by taking time, the results will be better! You finally open the envelope and the wait is over!!

My advice though to anyone waiting for their results, whether it is your 11+ results, SATs, GCSEs, Alevels or anything else, is to relax, stay calm and try not to think about them. In the end it usually turns out fine (fingers crossed!), and if the results are not what you were hoping for, then its not the end of the world, it just means you’ll have to choose another path, which may even turn out for the better.

By Serena Rathore

Serena, as you can see, is waiting for her results. She is able and articulate - and the children like her.

Thank you Serena for your hard work.

Dressing Dilemmas

2007-07-20T12:21:00.000+01:00

Now that we’ve left school we’ve got plenty of free time on our hands before we’re sent off to work, or university, or more importantly, jetting off on our holidays. At school we were only permitted to wear sixth form suits, the only variety in the outfit being which colour shirt or whether it would be a skirt or trousers today.

Now the choice is our own, and this faces us with a dilemma. Trousers, jeans, cropped trousers, flared trousers, combats or shorts. Long skirt, short skirt, knee length or gypsy style. And that’s just your bottom half. You’ve got shirts, t-shirts, vest tops and blouses to worry about next.

Don’t even get me started on shoes. I’d like to think of myself as someone who knows a bit about fashion and what styles are in, so my top tips for the ETC crew are colour coordination and accessories.

Accessories are usually considered just for girls, but guys can accessorise too. A cool watch, nice chain or bracelet and you’re good to go. Girls might jazz up an outfit with a funky hair clip.

It’s summer so the bright colours are starting to appear, don’t be afraid to be bold and wear colours you may not usually associate together-you may be surprised how well the look. Your clothes reflect your mood, so if you’re wearing bright and bold colours, you’re sure to be cheerful and full of confidence for the day. Hopefully it won’t take you as long to get dressed as some of us sixth formers, whose mornings are spent tossing clothes from the wardrobe trying to decide. So enjoy your summers and dress to impress!

Becky Calver

Becky has completed her `A' level examinations. The next step is results then university. She is popular with our children - and is a `funky' dresser.

Thank you Becky.

Leaving School

2007-07-20T12:17:00.000+01:00

Every person, no matter who they are, will always have some complaint about school, whether it is the teachers, the pupils or even something simple as the school meals. It seems to always be the same mundane routine day in day out with little to offer as variety, and so naturally, students and teachers alike sometimes really resent having to get up early in the morning just to do the same thing they did the day before.

However, reflecting back on my time at school after leaving, I realise it wasn’t all doom and gloom. Looking back, school was very much a time when you can see all your mates for hours on end but at the same time you’re learning as well.

Even if the teachers appear to nag all the time, they have your best interests at heart, because if it weren’t for my teachers, and obviously some hard work on my part, I wouldn’t have got to grammar school and passed my GCSE’s and A Levels.

Now that I’ve left, I have so much time on my hands that I seem to just spend watching the Jeremy Kyle Show or twiddling my thumbs, and that all gets really boring after a while, and to be honest, I’m beginning to actually miss school!

No more do I have the daily gossip catch up sessions with my friends or seeing the teachers that I’ve effectively grown up with the last seven years. So make the most of that daily routine, or the teachers that sometimes moan, or the meals that are sometimes a bit yucky and all your school friends, because there does come a point when you have to leave school and leave all that behind.

By Sally Brading

Sally is an assistant in our Gravesend Headquarters.

Thank you Sally for your interest and hard work. Your results will be out soon!

Exam Technique

2007-07-20T12:14:00.000+01:00

You would not expect a professional footballer to be any good at his job if he doesn’t train, nor would you expect a professional golfer to win a tournament if he hadn’t played the course a couple of times. So why is it then that most parents expect their children to do well in an exam if they haven’t had any practice, or haven’t been taught how to answer the questions in the exam.

The best way to prepare for the exam is to do practice exam questions. There is no excuse for not doing this because there is an abundance of questions to work from. Many practice papers can be bought in your local retailer and some can be found for free on the internet, have a look around and see what you can find. They say practice makes perfect, and that is especially true for the 11+.

If your child keeps making mistakes, don’t just correct them by telling them the answer, you need to find out exactly what thought processes they went through to get the answer. If you yourself know why your child is getting the wrong answer, you can then help to change their thought process into getting the correct answer. If you know their exact thought pattern you can see at exactly what point they went wrong, praise them for what they did correctly, then just nudge them along the right path where they went wrong. Immediately after you have done this go through an example with them so that they can see how the new techniques are used in real questions.
Keep reminding them that if they do get stuck in the exam, move onto the next question. There is no point wasting time trying to work out a hard question, which is worth just as many marks as an easy question. If they have time at the end, they can then go back and try to work out the answer.

One last thing to remember is to make sure your child knows how to fill in the answer sheet, if they leave out a question they need to make sure that all subsequent answers are filled in correctly, so that the question numbers match up to where they fill in the answers.

Thank you to Richard Coleman for his insight.

Richard will be off to University very soon. We wish him good fortune - and grateful thanks for his contribution.

Working out the correct answer.

2007-07-20T12:11:00.000+01:00

What annoys me the most when I am marking pupils practice papers is when they leave a question blank. In doing so they are guaranteed to get zero marks for that question, and I thought they were trying to get as many marks as possible!

The fact is, that even if your are completely guessing, just writing down a number off the top of your head is better than leaving the question blank. Maybe by some miracle, it could be the correct answer and you’ll get marks for it. Real examiners would love you to leave loads of questions blank as it makes marking lots of papers a doddle, don’t give them an easy time.

This technique applies to all subjects, but has special relevance in mathematics/physics and exams where there are multiple choice questions. In multiple choice questions the correct answer is right in front of you, and you have a big chance of guessing the right one, it would be insanity to leave those questions blank. In mathematics/physics it is vital that you write at least something down for each question, even if it is just a random equation of some random working out. There are more marks available in these subjects for your working out than your actual answer, so if by some miracle you write down the correct numbers you’ll get some badly needed marks.

Too much emphasise in today’s teaching is placed on getting a child to work out the correct answer before writing it down. To me this is ludicrous and is having a detrimental effect on test scores. It sometimes gets to a point where the child is under so much pressure to get the answer correct they fear guessing and fear getting it wrong. We learn from our mistakes, and if we don’t make any, then I don’t believe we’ll learn that much.

So, next time, just guess, what’s the worst that could happen?

Prepared by Richard Coleman
6th Form - Tunbridge Wells Centre

Thank you Richard for your helpful thoughts.

Thinking about Secondary Schools.

2007-07-20T10:13:00.000+01:00

Well, the summer holidays are almost upon us and for some of you they might already have started. So, if your child is going into Year 5 in September, it’s time for you, the parent, to do your homework! If you haven’t already thought about secondary schools then now is the time to start.

Many of the parents that I speak to in my centre are worried about how to choose a secondary school. Where and how do you start? So here are a few tips to get you going.

1. Check out your local schools. Do a bit of research by looking at the OFSTED reports and exam results. This will give you an overview of your local schools. Look at the schools own websites too. These can show you what extra-curricular activities there are. Talk to other parents whose children go there. Are they happy? Don’t just judge the school on the exam results, it may have a new Head Teacher and be improving. Also, don’t judge the school on reputation alone. Schools are changing all the time and the local perception may be out of date. There is no substitute for going with your child to see schools so go along to Open Days starting from September. The school might have fantastic exam results but is it right for your child? If you start the process in Year 5, it’ll be much easier.

2. You need to be realistic. There is no point listing all the schools you like on your form if none of them are close to where you live. Unfortunately, the better the school, the smaller the catchment area.

3. Look at which subjects each school specialises in. You’ll soon discover that nearly all comprehensives specialise in sports or music or languages etc. What does your child excel in? Do they enjoy sports or computing? Does a school that perhaps isn’t your most local offer places to talented students for music or drama?

4. Are you thinking about entering your child for the 11 Plus exam? Your child will need to study for the exam as it’s above the level of work that he will do at school. The most successful students study for at least a year so begin the work now! Why not book an assessment or a course.

5. Do you have the option of sending your child to a religious secondary school? If so and you’re considering the 11 Plus then talk to the school. Some religious schools may not offer your child a place if you have applied to grammar schools. Forewarned is forearmed!

6. Have you considered Independent Schools? You may wish your child to sit these exams and he will need to study for them. Is there a Bursary that you could apply for to reduce the fees? Again, these may be available if your child has a particular talent.

OK! So there is your summer holiday homework and it seems pretty daunting doesn’t it? Don’t procrastinate – start now!

Wise words from Christine Webb -who runs our Waterfront centre in South London.

Thank you Christine. I am sure parents will find your thoughts useful.

Winners never quit!

2007-07-20T10:08:00.000+01:00

How to succeed?

My daughter had a swimming test last week for her Bronze Award. She tried really hard and passed two of the three things that she had to do. Instead of feeling pleased with herself, she was upset because she had failed the sculling.

So what do you do now? Luckily, she got another chance to repeat the sculling this week and I promised to take her swimming and practise. So off we went to the pool on Saturday and she practised with a float between her feet and was still finding it very hard to keep her feet out of the water.

So off we went to the pool again on Sunday for another go and progressed to trying without the float.

On Tuesday she had her swimming lesson and swam the required 400 metres, followed by the sculling and passed! She was really pleased and proud of herself. What was the secret? It’s obvious – she was willing to practise and she was determined to do it.

If you want to pass your 11 Plus exam you need to practise! The hard work will really pay off. You also need to be determined that you will succeed. Remember – winners never quit and quitters never win! Always try your best.

Thank You Christine.

Christine Webb is the successful manager of the centre at the Waterfront in South London.

(Well done to you and your daughter!)

Jessica's Thoughts

2007-06-19T11:39:00.000+01:00

My name is Jessica Baker and I am an 18 year old student, just finishing my last year at Gravesend Grammar School for Girls. I am currently sitting my A-Level exams in Biology, Geography, Maths and Psychology. I hope to go to Greenwich University to study Education and Psychology before training to become a primary school teacher. After this I aspire to eventually become an educational psychologist, all of this being fuelled by my experience at the Extra Tuition Centre.

I have been at the Extra Tuition Centre in Gravesend for over 2 years now and have enjoyed working here. During this time I have been in the various rooms and have found that they are all very different to each other. In the tuition rooms the same faces enter the room each week while in the assessment room there is always the surprise of who will be tested. Even with the different styles of working in each room, we each have our own role within our room and within the organisation as a whole.

For the past 2 years I have mainly been working in the assessment room, alongside Michelle Brooker, Linda Carnell and Laura Theobald. This role involves a variety of tasks. Firstly assessing the children in lessons every 6 months to find out how much progress has been made during the lessons and to discover what material needs to be covered. It also involves assessing new children to discover what level they are at and how much they already know. There are also specific assessments including, eleven plus assessments, to assess the likelihood of a child passing, SATs and GCSE assessments as well as the computerised assessments COPs and LASS (www.lucid-research.com). As well as testing the children I also find resources and create materials to help assess results and organise our resources in a more useful way.

Each week in the assessment room is different as each child is an individual and requires different help and a different approach, some enjoy engaging you in conversation while others prefer to sit quietly and get through the tests as quickly as possible. Even when the tests are the same the outcome is nearly always different which makes the job very interesting. Seeing how the children have progressed after 6 months makes the job very satisfying and worthwhile.

After each assessment the results are explained to the parents, during which time we get more information about the child and school life, making the results more interesting in context of the whole situation. I am currently being trained to talk to parents and have sat in on many talks with Michelle. I find these very interesting as the parents, just like the children, vary each week and within a week. Seeing how pleased the parents are with the results reinforces the satisfaction of the job.

Overall the experience and knowledge that I have gained working at the Extra Tuition Centre has prepared me for my future aspirations. I would recommend working here if you enjoy the rewards of helping children reach their potential while expanding your own skills and knowledge.

Thank you Jessica. We appreciate your hard work and the effort you put into our children. Shaun

11+ Revision Papers

2007-06-11T09:22:00.000+01:00

11+ Revision Papers

“There are so many to choose from…which ones should I get?”. This is a question we are asked every week. The answer is, go and look at all that are available. Some are better if your child is not confident in the subject and you just want to introduce them to exam papers, others are much harder or are laid out in a more difficult way – use those as you approach the exams, once you have done some ground work.
The important thing is to introduce the papers gently. Some are terrifying.

Some good papers to look at are (in no particular order):
Bond Assessment Papers, R& S Educational services, Learning Together,
MW Educational, Nfer Nelson, AFN Publishing, Athey Educational, IPS (Internet Primary School).
All are available for our website www.extratuition.com and click on bookshop.

There are many different approaches:
1. Break the papers up into chunks, do a page at a time, mark them, go over any areas of weakness.
2. If the papers look too hard, then one evening go though the questions together, discuss where your child may have difficulties when answering the questions. Don’t do the answers, just talk in general about the topics. Then a few nights later, let them actually do the questions.
3. Buy a mathematics reference book so they can look up how to do particular topics.
4. Encourage your child to do their best by not pushing them to do more practice tests than they are comfortable with, and when they do start them that they are relaxed.
5. You will find that there are time limitations written at the beginning of each paper, this is if you want to work at familiarising yourself with 11plus test conditions. However, you may find it more beneficial to ignore the timing at the beginning so that confidence in doing the papers increases.
6. If, during a practice test, your child gets stuck on a question, let them put a mark in the margin and come back to it later; then it will be easier to work out where they need the most help to become better at tackling the eleven plus exams.

Don’t forget, if you get stuck, bring the questions in to the lessons and we will be happy to help BUT PLEASE, PLEASE bring in the answers too, especially for the nonverbal reasoning as some of those questions are real stinkers!
Good Luck. If we can help in any way please let us know.

The Kidnapper!

2007-06-07T09:51:00.001+01:00

We are starting a new blog this week.

The stories are from the well known author Magnus McLeod.

This will start on Saturday!

Please comment and send us what you think.

http://bindonandbertie.blogspot.com/

What is interesting about this blog is being able to read the author's comments.

Reading Suggestions

2007-06-04T16:04:00.000+01:00

Reading – Not Your Child’s Favourite Pastime?

Reading every day is an important part of your child’s education. We are constantly asking our children if they are reading at home on a regular basis. Unfortunately often the answer is no. When asked why, the excuses start flowing:-
The books my mum gets me are too long or too boring.
I’ve read all the books I have at home already.
I read at school for an hour every day so I don’t need to at home (literacy hour).
I’ve got too much homework, so I don’t have time to read.

Well the answer is simple:
MAKE TIME
Visit the library – let your children choose the books they want to read, then return them the following week whether they have been read or not so they are not ‘hanging about’ the house.

If you can’t visit a library there are a number of companies who sell books over the internet so if you know what you want you can just log on, order and the books will be sent to you e.g. amazon.co.uk

Of course you need to visit our bookshop www.extratuition.com and click on bookshop – we have some great deals available.

Another company who sells books cheaply is www.thebookpeople.co.uk .They send out catalogues of books every month. The range of books is vast and they cater for all ages and tastes. We use them to order some of our educational books.

THE IMPORTANT THING IS TO READ!

Pamela. A Level 2007 (English!)

GCSE English Exam Tips

2007-04-17T10:12:00.000+01:00

GCSE English Exam Tips – Katy Lavender

1. Look at the number of marks for the question. Now if you divide that number by two; that is how many points you need to make. You should then explain these points to get the rest of the points.

e.g. Q.1 = 6 marks
* Make 3 points and then explain them in relation to the question.

2. Read the question twice! Throughout your answer, keep referring back to what you were originally asked.

3. When comparing and contrasting, switch from one text to the other comparing and contrasting:

- Humour - Similarities and Differences
- Sarcasm - Form/ Format
- Rhetoric - Use of Graphics
- Statistics - Formal/ Informal Language
- Language Use - Persuasive Techniques

4. Always make you answers as detailed as possible in the time allowed using key words and technical language (e.g. The author uses metaphors to reinforce…)

5. Use relevant quotes, but none of which should exceed two lines!

6. When writing to argue:
– say things in threes (the ‘rule of 3’)
– take into account/ mention opposing arguments and try to provide evidence to contradict them.
– Use rhetorical questions.
– Make up quotes to use in your argument to provide originality.

e.g. Q = Argue that childhood obesity is on the increase.

A = Dr. Patel BSc, an expert on diet in relation to children believes that, ‘a significant rise in childhood obesity is evident because…’

7. Finally, do not panic! Just do your best. Good luck!

GCSE English - Quotes

2007-04-02T11:28:00.000+01:00

Quoting or ‘using evidence’ as it’s called, is used in exams and coursework to show the examiner what parts of a text you are looking at. It is also PROOF that you have read the text. There are three main types of quoting and they are all used for quoting different types of text. They are listed below, with a short explanation of how academic writers have been known to use them.

• Supportive Reference (Argument): This is the most common form of quoting. This type of quoting suits the ‘SEC’ structure of answering questions. ‘SEC’ stands for ‘Statement/ Evidence/ Comment’. This means you make a statement about what you are going to look at, give the quote or evidence in the middle, then comment about how your statement matches up to the quote you have given.

This is the used most often by GCSE students, as it is pretty straight forward. You’ve probably been doing this in school already. This type of quoting is best used when you have an opinion about something in the text, but are not sure about it. Using a ‘supportive reference’ helps to make your opinion look like a well-structured solid argument.

• Running Reference: This is usually used by academic scholars who write big books about really tedious subjects. Running references are a favourite of professors and university scholars because it saves a lot of time when copying out quotes. A ‘running reference’ is used when you want to talk about specific words in a passage or a sentence, but not the whole paragraph.

A ‘running reference’ is not everybody’s cup of tea. You may want to try it out first on a practice question before you decide if it’s for you or not. A ‘running reference’ looks like a thread going in and out of your own opinions.

• Display Reference: This is perfect when writing an essay about poetry. Display references allow you to write a block of poetry, then comment on it afterwards at length. If you open any well-written GCSE book on Shakespeare revision, you will see a ‘display reference’ of his work. It looks something like this:

“Two households, both alike in dignity,
In fair Verona (where we lay our scene),
From ancient grudge break to new mutiny,
Where civil blood makes civil hands unclean.”

You can see that the reference itself is indented from the rest of the writing to make it stand out.

Do’s and Don’ts of Quoting

- REPHRASING: A quote is supposed to be a direct quote of something from a book, not a re-hash of something. If you put a quote into your own words, it is no longer valid and you will loose marks. Re-phrasing quotes is considered cheating as you are trying to pass off the author’s thoughts as your own. Quoting is used to clarify that you are commenting on the author’s thoughts, not saying they are your own. This is breaching copyright laws.

- LEAVING OUT QUOTATION MARKS: If you are going to quote, you must have speech marks, otherwise it will look like you’ve copied the author’s work, and are passing it off as your own. Quotation marks are like speech marks, they show that you are allowing the author to speak through his/her work.

- LONG QUOTES: When is a quote too long? That is hard to say and depends on the type of quoting methods you use. You must learn to judge length. The best way to do this is to select ONLY the part that refers to what you have just been speaking about.

- EASY MARKS: Quotes are easy marks, because on the longer questions they constitute for upto 50% of the marks. Not only do they earn you more marks, they also do most of the work for you. Think about it!

- FLOW: A good student will know how to work their quotes. They will also know that smooth quoting could get them to ‘A’ grade. They will always try to make their writing flow around their quotes. When you start to answer a question, look at the quote you are going to use first, then plan your answer around it. It makes a world of difference! Don’t start writing your opinion, then look for a quote later. It may not work.

Written by Pinar Galip
ETC

English Literature

2007-04-02T10:28:00.000+01:00

English Literature Exam Questions

Recently I was asked to explain to a talented young student of ours how to answer questions on English literature exam papers. This is often a source of distress for children, as many factors help towards answering such questions, but there are always a few fundamental steps all students can take. Below are my tips on how to go about setting up a good response:

1. The Key to the Question
Many children underestimate the power of the question itself. Most often they treat the question simply as a question. But those who achieve top marks know that the question is the key to the ‘A’ grade. The question is a very important piece of text. To achieve top marks in a literature paper, you must consider the information you are a) being asked to give and b) being given to work off in the first place. Everything the examiner wants from you is in the question itself.

2. All Questions are the Same
A good English teacher of mine once advised me to refocus my attitude towards questions. By that he meant that all questions are in fact, ONE question. They are simply asking you about the way the writer writes. Remembering this would help when facing a question that is difficult to answer. It can help you re-focus your response.

3. Use the Extract/ Read it TWICE!
Some questions come with a short extract from a novel/ play. These must be read thoroughly. If a question has an extract it clearly indicates that you must use it to its full potential. Let’s look at an example:

Q. Look again at the following extract where Wickham meets Darcy for the first time in the novel.

“Both changed colour, one looked white, the other red. Mr Wickham, after a few moments touched his hat – a salutation which Darcy just deigned to return. What could be the meaning of it? – It was impossible to imagine; it was impossible not to long to know.”

What is the importance of the character of Wickham in the novel?

Here, the question is wrapped around the extract. It is an extension of the question, and should be treated as the answer. What are we being asked to do? Let’s go through it:

- We are being asked to LOOK carefully at the extract. This means you must use your close-reading skills to spot what the examiner wants you to see in the text.
- What is being shown in the extract? A FIRST TIME meeting and the dynamic between two characters. The extract is a clear indicator that Wickham’s PURPOSE as a character is tightly linked to that of Darcy’s.
- The question at the end of the short passage directs you to pay attention to Wickham and Darcy’s ACTIONS, Wickham’s in particular. WHY is this going on?
- You may have sussed out, that the question wants you to comment, not only on the obvious, but the hidden meanings as well. This is called ‘subtext’. This is ultimately what this question is aiming for.

4. Underline Key Words
Another obvious point, but a really useful one. This helps you focus on key points and topics of the question and cuts down on time used in hunting down appropriate quotes.

5. Use Quotes
Not enough people use quotes, but those who do boost their final grade by 50%. Keep an eye on the number of marks a question is worth. For instance, if it is worth 20 marks, half of those an examiner would give for opinions and statements on the text. The other half would be awarded for QUOTES that back up those opinions. Remember, if you are talking about a specific area of the text, it won’t harm to slip in a quote. It shows you have read the text and are familiar with it.

6. Plan your Answer
A literature question is not about summarising the whole book/ text. Literature questions are about focussing on a particular element, topic, theme of a text and analysing it in detail. Therefore don’t think you’ll get extra marks for it. Stay ON TOPIC. Don’t waste your time and energy, or the examiners. Use only select, suitable areas of the book to work from.

GCSE Revision

2007-03-28T16:27:00.000+01:00

We found `Prof Gunning’s Erudite Course of Fact Retrieval’ a fascinating read.

The price is 2.95 from www.cgpbooks.co.uk. The ISBN is 1 84146 899 1.

This little book is aimed at GCSE students as they prepare for their examinations. The pages are full of useful tips. The one on reducing diagrams to simple lines and prompts is very useful. It shows how to start with a complicated diagram and end up with a very simple easy to remember drawing.

The final advice is:

Keep testing yourself to find out which areas you are weakest on.

Go over those notes again and re-test yourself until you get it all right.

Sound advice for all of us.

2007-01-27T15:55:00.000Z

My name is Carla I am ten years old.

I find Spanish boring because none of my friends are in my
class (they can’t speak Spanish).

I learnt how to speak Spanish at home with my mum.
The teacher is kind but she doesn’t speak a word of English.

In the lesson we either learn about the Spanish language
or we learn about humanities. Sometimes I feel a bit left out because every one is chatting but me.

El perro que podía escribir

El día de los reyes pasado Tilly -un perro muy inteligente-ha tenido un ordenador portable.

Para usar lo, tenia que escribir. Tenia que escribir historias y deberes del colegio. Cada noche para una hora y media su profesor le aprendió como escribir. Después de un mes ya sabía como escribir.

Pero Tilly tenía un problema. Siempre olvido sus contraseñas. Esto le causo muchos problemas. Afortunadamente Tilly descubrió que si movió su cola muy rápidamente se acordio de sus contraseñas.

Top 10 Common Mistakes Made in English!

2006-12-30T14:22:00.000Z

Confusing ‘of’ and ‘have’
Of- consisting of or containing. E.g. a bunch of bananas.
Have- completed action, show ownership or form the past tense. E.g. “I have lost it.” Or “I have a pencil.” Or “They have never met.”

Confusing ‘their’ and ‘there’
Their- something belonging to or related to someone. E.g. it was their idea.
There- in, at or to that place, point or case. E.g. he is sitting over there.

Do not abbreviate
In an essay or piece of writing,
E.g. don’t → do not
can’t → cannot
unless quoting.

Avoid repetition
You will not gain any extra marks even if you reiterate. Be concise and try to look at questions from different viewpoints. E.g. put yourself in the positions of other people; what would their emotions or actions be in relation to the situation?

Write a rough plan in pencil
Only include key words that you will use in your extended writing. Do not write in full sentences, as this will waste time.

Always provide evidence to back up your opinions
This may not always be possible but give further information is it is relevant. E.g. I think that stealing is wrong because it is illegal.

Avoid colloquialisms
Try to use appropriate language. E.g. ‘kind of’ and ‘ages and ages’ as these have no real meaning.

Always check that you are answering the question
Re-read the question and underline/highlight the key words and terms. Your answer should always relate back to the question!

Forgetting to indent paragraphs

Using too many clauses in one sentence
Adding linking words to sentences, e.g. ‘but’ and ‘therefore’ makes them more complex which will gain higher marks. However, overuse can be just as inappropriate.

Katy Telsa Lavender-Teaching Assistant, currently studying Sport and Exercise Science at the University of Bath.