Retrieval practice grid
This is the simplest revision tool we teach: a grid of questions your child writes themselves, then answers from memory days later. Because the questions come from their own notes, they land exactly on the material that will be examined, and because the grid is blank, every use is a genuine memory workout.
Make the grid (10 minutes, after a lesson)
- Choose three recent topics, one per grid section
- Write 4-5 questions per topic in the left column (answers stay closed)
- Vary the types: define, explain why, compare, calculate
Use the grid (5 minutes, days later)
- Answer one full section from memory, no notes
- Check against notes; mark each answer green or red
- Red answers become tomorrow's questions
Grow it weekly
- Retire questions answered green twice in a row
- Add the week's new topics as old ones retire
- Keep the grid in the front of the revision folder
Tutor tip: The grid works because it forces retrieval, the study method with the strongest evidence behind it. Tutors build the same loop into every session: recall first, check second, teach the gaps third.