British schoolchildren

READING
TASK 1

Read the text below. Match choices (A—H) to (1—5). There are three choices you don't need to use.

British schoolchildren sit up to 70 exams and tests before they reach their GCSEs. But there are ways to ease the stress at exam time.

1

What a child eats and drinks in the run-up to exams can influence how clearly they think and how happy they feel. A balanced diet with lots of fruit and vegetables, fish and complex carbohydrates such as brown bread and beans will help them concentrate and think clearly. Too much high-fat, high-sugar and high-caffeine food and drink such as cola, chips, burgers and chocolate can make studying harder.

2 _

Sleeping well and for long enough to feel rested, around six to eight hours for most people, will help thinking and concentration. Allow half an hour or so fofkids to wind down between studying, watching TV or using a computer and going to bed to help them get a good night's sleep. Regular exercise also helps them sleep better. Cramming all night before an exam is usually a bad idea.

3

Parent line Plus advises parents to be flexible around exam time. When a child is revising all day don't worry about household jobs that are left undone or untidy bedrooms. Staying calm yourself if they're a bit moody can help. Help a child to revise by making sure they have somewhere comfortable to study.

4

Remind your child that feeling nervous is normal. Nervousness is a typical reaction to exams, says teacher net. All students will feel it. The key is to put these nerves to positive use. Being reminded of what they do know and the time they have put into study can help them feel confident that they can reach their potential.

5

Support group Childline produces a handy leaflet on beating exam stress. "Keep things in perspective," says Rosanne Pearce, a senior supervisor. "Listen to children, give support and avoid criticism." Before they go in for a test or exam, be reassuring and positive. After each exam, encourage a child to talk it through with you. Then move on and focus on the next test, rather than dwelling on things that can't be changed.

А Concentrate on the future
В Don't add to the pressure
С Get rid of phobias
D Don't raise your voice
Е Provide proper nutrition
F Make use of medications
G Remember about natural anxiety
Н Encourage proper relaxation