Learn to Learn Program: Year 7’s Master the Art of Assessment Preparation

Today, our Year 7 students engaged with a Learn to Learn workshop delivered by the College Leader of Learning and Teaching, Mrs Smit. Students began by exploring the fundamental nature of assessments, learning that these are not just tests but valuable skills check-ins that allow teachers to see what has been mastered and what needs more practice. Mrs Smit broke down the difference between formal summative tasks found on Compass and the informal formative checks that happen every day through teacher questions, group work and class work. 

A key highlight of the session was the introduction of the “Two-Week Rule” as a blueprint for eliminating last-minute stress. Students were encouraged to use the first week to read their task notifications, brainstorm ideas, and complete a first draft, while reserving the second week for refining their work against the marking criteria, using the StudyHub mentors to work through editing activities and asking a parent/carer to check work before submission.  

Year 7s explored the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence as a “thinking partner.” They learned that while AI can be a powerful coach for explaining hard ideas or brainstorming different sides of a topic, it must be used mindfully and ethically. The session established clear protocols for being an ethical AI user, emphasising the necessity of verifying all facts against trusted sources and the importance of “keeping your voice” by rewriting any suggestions in your own words. By maintaining this transparency and ensuring that the final work reflects their own understanding, students are improving their understanding of how digital tools can be used to enhance their critical thinking rather than replace it.

All session resources are made available to students through Google Classroom and students are encouraged to work with their teachers as they further develop their positive learning habits.

Future Learn to Learn sessions will continue to build on the foundation of mastering assessments and organisation established today. These upcoming workshops are designed to help students transition from feeling overwhelmed by their workload to having a concrete plan for success. 

Mrs Kelly Smit, Leader of Learning and Teaching