Séadhan De Poire from the Dublin Academy of Education is here with tips and guidance for students sitting Junior Cycle and Leaving Cert mock exams.
He is an accomplished author of Irish-language school textbooks and a regular contributor to RTÉ Study Hub.
The mock exams are fast approaching, and with that comes students’ first real opportunity to properly test themselves on the material covered in school this year. Sitting Junior Cycle and Leaving Cert style questions under exam conditions is invaluable and it’s something no amount of homework can truly replicate.
That said, the mocks can also bring stress and anxiety. For some students, it feels like the exams have come around too quickly, while for others, it’s the realisation that study hasn’t properly begun yet. If this sounds familiar, don’t panic because you’re not alone.
First and foremost, it’s important to remember that mock exams are a learning tool. They are informative, not definitive. The feedback you receive should guide your study, helping you identify the areas that need more work while also highlighting the questions and topics you’ve prepared well. Think of the mocks as a roadmap, not a final destination.
What Really Matters When Studying for Exams?
One of the biggest factors in exam success is understanding what will actually be examined. There’s a huge difference between trying to learn everything on the syllabus and studying based on past exam trends.
Equally important is knowing:
- How many marks each question is worth
- How much time you should spend on each section
These are things you can work out yourself, but ideally they should be discussed with your subject teacher, who can help you focus your efforts where they matter most.
Another often-overlooked element is the marking scheme. Teachers with State Examinations Commission (SEC) marking experience can offer invaluable insight here. Understanding how marks are awarded and what examiners are actually looking for. This can give students real shortcuts to success.
Where Should You Start?
To create an effective study plan, start by looking at your week in advance. Decide how many hours you can realistically commit to studying, choose your study days and times, and most importantly stick to them.
On Sunday evening, fill in your study plan with:
- The subject you will study
- The specific topic you will cover
Consistency beats cramming every time.
Ask Yourself These Key Questions
Before you begin studying any subject, ask yourself the following:
1. What subject do I need to study?
- Example: Gaeilge
2. How am I assessed?
- Oral, Aural, Written
3. What are the key questions?
- Oral exam (40%)
- Essay (17%)
- Reading comprehensions (17%) Total: 74% of the overall grade
4. How long do I have for each section?
- Oral: 15 minutes
- Essay: 110 minutes
- Reading comprehensions: 90 minutes
5. What do I need to prepare in advance?
Visit RTÉ Learn for more exam tips and resources for Junior Cycle and Leaving Cert students.
