Using the ‘Look, Cover, Write, Check’ technique to support learning
Many parents have experienced the frustration of watching their child spend hours revising, only to discover that very little of the information has actually stuck. Often, the challenge isn't how much time children spend studying, but how they use that time. Some of the most effective revision techniques are also the simplest, and one that has stood the test of time is the 'Look, Cover, Write, Check' method.
Understanding the 'Look, Cover, Write, Check' technique
The 'Look, Cover, Write, Check' technique is a proven strategy used by students to memorise and consolidate information effectively. It involves four essential steps:
Look: Your child begins by looking closely at the information they want to learn, whether it's a specific concept, formula, or key dates. They should read and understand the material thoroughly before moving on to the next step.
Cover: Next, they cover the material, hiding it from view. This step is crucial as it encourages them to recall the information from memory rather than simply relying on visual cues.
Write: With the material still covered, your child writes down what they remember. This step reinforces the learning process by actively engaging their memory and facilitating better retention.
Check: Finally, they uncover the material and compare what they wrote with the original content. This step helps identify any mistakes, omissions, or inaccuracies, which they can then correct.
Using the technique with revision guides
Revision guides provide concise summaries of key topics, making them ideal for the 'Look, Cover, Write, Check' technique. Encourage your child to break down their study sessions into manageable chunks and focus on one topic at a time. They can repeat the process for each section until they feel confident in their understanding. Encourage your child to be consistent with their practice, as repetition is key to reinforcing their memory. Regularly revisiting topics will solidify their understanding and improve long-term retention.
Creating the right conditions for success
To ensure the 'Look, Cover, Write, Check' technique is effective, support your child in creating an ideal study environment. Minimise distractions, provide adequate study materials, and maintain a consistent routine. Praise their efforts and progress, fostering a positive attitude towards learning.
What makes the 'Look, Cover, Write, Check' technique so effective is its simplicity. It encourages children to move beyond simply reading information and instead actively retrieve it from memory, which is where much of the real learning takes place. With regular use, it can help build confidence, strengthen recall and develop independent study habits that will benefit children far beyond their next test or exam.
