Today, I observed Isabella working with Sophie, a Year 12 student, on preparing for her first Studies of Religion assessment task. The session highlighted Isabella’s skill in creating a personalised learning plan and providing structured guidance to help Sophie manage her workload effectively.
Isabella began the session by discussing the requirements of the assessment and breaking them down into manageable components. She worked with Sophie to identify her strengths and areas for improvement, tailoring the session to focus on the specific content and skills Sophie needed to develop. By aligning the plan with Sophie’s personal learning style, Isabella ensured the session was productive and targeted.
A key feature of the session was Isabella’s emphasis on structuring Sophie’s study routine. She helped Sophie create a realistic schedule, allocating time to each section of the syllabus and incorporating regular revision. This routine balanced Sophie’s school commitments with independent study, providing her with a clear pathway to stay on top of her workload without feeling overwhelmed.
Isabella also provided practical strategies for approaching complex topics. For example, she demonstrated how to summarise key concepts into concise notes and use visual aids like mind maps to reinforce understanding. Additionally, she encouraged Sophie to regularly practice writing responses under timed conditions to build her confidence and familiarity with exam-style questions.
Throughout the session, Isabella was attentive and supportive, frequently checking in with Sophie to ensure she felt comfortable with the pace and content. This open communication allowed Sophie to express any concerns and gain clarity on challenging areas, fostering a positive and collaborative learning environment.
Overall, Isabella’s session with Sophie demonstrated the importance of personalised planning and structured study strategies. Her thoughtful approach provided Sophie with the tools to tackle her assessment confidently and develop effective habits for the year ahead.
Demetria Koutavas
