Mock tests are a key stage in the journey towards exam day. But how can you approach them effectively? In this article, we look at the advantages of conducting a mock test and how factoring this into your exam preparation early on can be beneficial. We go on to explore how you can use our mock test toolkit, part of the Cambridge Exam Preparation Journey, to guide your teaching and ensure that your students feel fully prepared going into their exam.
What is a mock test?
Let’s start by defining what a ‘mock test’ actually is. A mock test is used as practice for a future real exam. The procedures, timings and sample tests should mimic the real exam as much as possible, so learners know exactly what to expect on exam day.
The benefits of mock tests
There are several benefits for both teachers and learners in conducting mock tests. These include:
- A chance to check on students’ progression to exam readiness.
- An opportunity to identify students’ strengths and areas for improvement, allowing you to understand their progress and provide effective feedback.
- An authentic exam day experience for students, so they know what to expect when they sit their digital or paper-based exam.
When to set a mock test?
We recommend conducting a full mock test once learners are familiar with the exam format, have already learnt some exam skills and strategies and have had language practice. However, it’s important to note that you can set parts of the test at any time as they’re approached strategically i.e. you’re clear on the purpose and desired outcomes. By moving the mock test earlier in your exam preparation, you will have more time to plan your future classes based on the identified strengths and areas to work on. As well as guiding your teaching, this will help you to build confidence and motivation amongst your students.
A toolkit to support your exam preparation
Our mock test toolkit is aimed at teachers who are preparing learners for Cambridge English Qualifications (A2 Key to C2 Proficiency).* It provides practical tips for running a mock test, activity ideas to help you get the most out of the sample test papers, as well as strategies for giving effective feedback. The toolkit is broken down into three key stages:
- Prepare – explores the exam essentials such as key terminology, frequently asked questions, activity suggestions and information about the exams.
- Action – provides detailed information on how to conduct each part of the exam, teacher checklists and step-by-step guidance on marking.
- Feedback – gives advice on how to provide feedback and support students in identifying areas for improvement.
One of the activities within the ‘Prepare’ section of the mock test toolkit is the Pyramid activity. This encourages students to reflect on their attitudes and beliefs about exam success by sharing useful learning strategies. It asks students to explore questions like ‘How do you feel about taking tests and exams? Why?’, and come up with practical ideas on how to get the most out of their exam preparation. This is designed to increase students’ confidence and understanding of the exam and encourage a positive growth mindset.
“A positive growth mindset means learners are more open to trying different learning strategies, so they are more likely to be successful.“
Source: https://cambridge.foleon.com/mock-test-toolkit/mock-test-toolkit/prepare
Another way of boosting students’ confidence as they approach the exam is by giving them more control over their learning. The ‘My Study Plan template’ within the ‘Feedback’ section of the toolkit encourages learners to make effective or SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-based) study plans. Students can use the template to set personal goals, reflect on their progress and identify areas they need to work on.
*If you’re looking for support in preparing learners for the Pre A1 Starters, A1 Movers or A2 Flyers exams, take a look at our mock test toolkit for young learners.
The exam preparation journey
On the Cambridge Exam Preparation Journey hub we give step-by-step guidance on how to approach mock tests, so you can build them into your preparation strategy. From familiarisation with the test format and assessment criteria through to feedback and reflection, you’ll find a range of activities to help prepare students for the mock test and maximise learnings. By considering the mock test early on in your planning and approaching it strategically, you can structure your teaching around clear goals and build your students’ motivation and confidence as they work through the course.
Are you preparing students for Cambridge English Qualifications? The Cambridge Exam Preparation Journey hub offers teaching tips, classroom activities and expert advice that work alongside your exam timeline and existing course materials.