Flashcards
Active Recall Flashcards
Build automatic recall of techniques, terminology, and structures
What the Research Says
Flashcards work because they force retrieval — you see a prompt and must recall the answer before flipping the card. For English Language, this builds automatic knowledge of the techniques, terminology, and question structures you need in the exam. When these are automatic, you can focus your exam time on analysis rather than trying to remember what a metaphor is.
Evidence Base
| Study | Finding | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Kornell (2009) | Flashcard users outperformed re-readers on delayed tests, even when they felt less confident during study | Flashcards beat re-reading for retention |
| Rawson & Dunlosky (2011) | Retrieving information until it is recalled correctly 3 times produced the best long-term retention | Aim for 3 correct recalls per card |
How to Apply It to English Language
- 1Make technique cards — Front: technique name (e.g. "Personification"). Back: definition + example + typical effect on reader.
- 2Make question structure cards — Front: "10-mark Analyse Language — what are the steps?" Back: the step-by-step formula from the exam technique guide.
- 3Make vocabulary cards — Front: a common word (e.g. "said"). Back: 5 precise alternatives (murmured, declared, insisted, stammered, whispered) with the feeling each creates.
- 4Test yourself daily — Spend 10 minutes each day. Sort cards into "confident" and "needs work" piles. Focus extra time on the needs-work pile.
Common Mistakes
Just reading both sides — If you flip the card immediately, you are reading, not recalling. Always attempt an answer before checking.
Too much information per card — Keep cards focused. One technique or one question type per card. Overloaded cards are harder to recall.