How to select your IB Physics IA Title

In this blog, Physics tutor Chris provides some great tips on choosing your Physics IA title. Focusing on research methodology (rather than an impossible topic) and choosing a study that interests you will help you on your way. Chris sets out some IA ideas for inspiration.

Top Tips to Home School Your Child in Math(s)

Maybe you’ve decided that homeschooling is the right path for your child to achieve a good education. Of course you may well be right and your intentions good. But have you thought about how this education might look? There are so many ways to promote good learning and it is important that you are clued up on what works vs. what doesn’t.

The Astronomy Tutor: What do the stars mean?

In this blog, Chris discusses why it can be fun and informative to study Astronomy. If you enjoy Physics and Maths and History, then look at Astronomy - it combines all these in one interesting and enjoyable place. Next time you are in a group and look up at the night sky and someone asks - 'Hey, what's that', you can be the one to answer them!

What is Theory of Knowledge and how does it work?

In this blog, Calum sets out the principle ideas and terminology of the Theory of Knowledge course, a mandatory part of the International Baccalaureate Diploma. He de-mystifies some of the language used in the ToK and explains the way that ToK works, giving a clear guide to students seeking to understand the basics of the course.

Applying to Secondary School: A step-by-step guide

In this blog, Pamela explores the process of applying to secondary school. Having a thorough understanding of the admissions criteria and application process can help make the process stress-free.

Tips for success: How to write Section 3 of your History IA

Having successfully written Sections 1 and 2 of your History IA, it is now time to reflect and write Section 3. In this blog, Anna will walk you through the necessary steps to help you gain full marks for this section.

IB Results Day 2017

This year, IB results will be issued on July 5th for exams taken in May. If you are awaiting your IB results, this blog sets out what to do on results day, including how to access your results and what to do if you don't get the grades you were expecting.

Oxfordshire School Admissions: Everything you need to know

In this blog, Pamela explores Independent Secondary Schools in Oxfordshire and talks you through the registration and application process. Pamela also provides a handy "Timeline for Year 6" and a list of Independent Secondary Schools in the county.

Bucks Grammar School Admissions: Everything you need to know

In this blog, Pamela talks you through the application process for Buckinghamshire grammar schools. Here you will find everything you need to know, including: a list of Grammar schools in Bucks, a handy checklist of things to research or consider, information regarding the Transfer Test and key dates for 2018 admissions.

Tips for success: How to write Section 1 of your History IA

Having written Section 2 of your History IA, you should then go back and write Section 1, in which you are required to identify and evaluate two of the most relevant sources used in your investigation. In this blog, Anna will walk you through the necessary steps to help you gain full marks for this section.

How to teach Physics online: Bringing the classroom to the student

How to teach Physics online? There are probably as many answers to this question as there are tutors and teachers who try to teach online. In this blog, Chris sets out how, to him, teaching Physics to one student via online tuition isn't so different to teaching a class of students at all: you just need a plan and the right technology!

Tips for success: How to write Section 2 of your History IA

Having chosen the topic of your History IA, designed your question and researched your IA, the next step will be to write Section 2. This should be done before attempting Section 1 and, in this blog, Anna outlines what is expected.

Tips for success: How to research your IB History IA

Once you have chosen the topic and question of your History IA, it's time to get researching! In this blog, Anna sets out some top tips on how best to research and record notes. Research in itself is a vitally important skill assessed throughout the IB Diploma - getting this right can mean the difference between a History IA's success and failure.

5 ways to develop your intercultural understanding for the Spanish IB

Intercultural understanding is assessed in both of the IB language groups, yet according to IB Spanish examiner reports, even native speakers often demonstrate a lack of it. In this blog, Vicky sets out 5 easy things you can do to develop your understanding of this key assessment component.  

Tips for success: Moving from GCSE to IB or A-level German

In this Blog, Maggie discusses the difficulties of moving from the I/GCSE to the IB or A-Level German course. Lots of students find the switch quite challenging but with some tricks and tips students can make a smooth (and successful) transition.

Would a Nobel Laureate pass the 11 Plus? A challenge to Bob Dylan

In this open letter to Bob Dylan, Finnian challenges the winner of the 2016 Nobel Prize in Literature to sit an 11 Plus paper. He may have a way with words, but would the famous song writer's performance in a comprehension or composition exam secure him a place at Emanuel School or Wycombe Abbey?!

7 Tips for Choosing a Successful History IA topic and question

Choosing the right History topic and question for YOU can make the difference between success and failure. Below are 7 steps to help you choose an appropriate topic and question.

Chemistry IB IA ideas 2017 – 2018

Stuck for ideas for your chemistry IA? Here is a list of 50 project ideas that should hopefully inspire you to come up with an interesting IA of your own. Remember that ‘Personal Engagement’ is one of the assessment criteria, so don’t just copy one of these ideas!

How to plan and write an economics IA

So... you have chosen an article to base your economics internal assessment ("IA") on and are moving to the next step of planning your IA. This article has laid out a seven step process that you can use that will make writing your IA that little bit easier.

The pros and cons of being a full-time tutor

For qualified teachers thinking about leaving the classroom, career options can feel limited. But, leaving the classroom doesn't mean you have to quit teaching altogether. In this blog, we set out the pros and cons of becoming a full-time, professional tutor. We believe this can offer a rewarding, flexible and lucrative option that allows qualified teachers to use their hard-earned skills and knowledge.

Utopia IB Business Management Case Study May 2017

John sets up a holiday villa business on a Pacific Island. He also develops a locally sourced coffee business, with a coffee shop in a main tourist destination. He’s keen on a socially responsible business model. Both businesses grow and he invites his twins, son and daughter, to help with the coffee business.

SAT German – The Basics

If you decided to take the German Subject Test (SAT German), you have already made a very good decision. Taking the test will allow you to show that you have some excellent language skills and that your reading and writing skills can be conducive to your chosen field of study in the future.

Taking the test will help you to complement your admission portfolio and will also give you a good head start if you are taking any introductory German courses at university as well.

From Teacher to private tutor – How can it be done?

In this blog, Lawrence sets out a few key ways that qualified teachers can make a smooth transition into the realm of professional tutoring. Efficiency, using your time wisely and finding a niche are all key.

Part Time Teaching Jobs 2017

The reason that I left the classroom was not because I no longer enjoyed teaching. I found teaching to be a hugely rewarding profession that was both challenging and exciting. I left the classroom as I found the rigid structures that govern schools choked creativity and innovation. An obsession with exam results, driven by league tables, seemed to be turning what should be a productive and fun environment into a process-driven corporation that no longer placed the interests of the student at the center of decision making.

Results had become more important than nurturing students to be the best that they could be.

How to get into City of London School for Girls at 11 Plus

Are you hoping for your daughter to win one of the 75 places at City of London School for Girls at 11+? Read on! This blog tells you everything you need to know about the application process: from registering your daughter, to pre-tests, exams and the interview. You will also find sample Maths and English papers as published by the school.

How to Write Blog Posts for Owl Tutors

We are always thinking of new ways to secure the best tuition engagements for our tutors. Publishing new content on our website is a hugely important way of upping website traffic and attracting potential clients. We want our tutors to play a part in this process by contributing blogs. Here are some tips on how to write effective blogs.

How to get into City of London School at 11 Plus

Are you hoping for your son to win one of the 60 places at City of London School at 11+? Read on!

How to get into Brighton College at 11 Plus

Are you hoping for your child to win one of the 80 places at Brighton College at 11+? Read on!

How to get into JAGS at 11+

Are you hoping for your daughter to win one of the 120 places at JAGS at 11+? Read on!

How to earn $1m per year as a tutor

“So how do I get a stable internet connection on the yacht?” says the student, “leave it to me, I know just what to do” says the super tutor.

As the private tutoring industry has grown over the past generation, so too have the tales of those lucky individuals that have profited most from this rise. From stories of famous tutors in South Korea and Japan earning one million dollars a year to tutors in London earning £1,500 an hour to prepare students for entry to the most competitive private schools, the tutoring industry, like any other, has its top earners.

How to prepare your child for interview at 7+ and 8+

In this blog, Hannah sets out five activities which can help your child to prepare for their 7 Plus or 8 Plus school entrance interview. Using these five activities as part of a long-term strategy will build your child's confidence in speaking and ensure their personality shines through on the day.

How to get into Alleyn’s at 11+

Are you hoping for your child to win one of the 135 places at Alleyn's at 11+? Read on!

5 Ways to Improve English Language Skills for Secondary School Students

An overwhelming educational concern among parents/guardians of secondary school students is that their child does not read enough and that they may struggle with the English Language GCSE. This blog sets out five easy things you can do at home to help improve your child’s English Language skills.

How to get into Dulwich College at 11+

Are you hoping for your son to win a place at Dulwich College at 11 Plus? Read on!

How to help your child write a great start to their story

Many entrance exams at 7+, 8+ and 11+ ask children to write a story – usually giving around half an hour for this part of the assessment. In such a short time, the beginning of the story should be captivating! In this blog, Hannah sets out how you can help your child to develop their story writing skills and grab the attention of the examiner.

10 Tips for Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science Personal Statements

Applying to study Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science at University can be incredibly competitive. It is therefore vital to showcase your relevant skills and experiences in your Personal Statement. This is your opportunity to justify exactly why you want to study that particular course and why you should be offered a place.

How to get an A* in A-Level Spanish

When learning a foreign language, mastering the skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing is key. In this blog, Spanish tutor Chloe sets out some top tips for tuning your ear and improving your listening skills. Find something you enjoy listening to - whether it's TV, radio, film or music - and let your understanding of the language improve and develop.

How to get a Level 7 in IB Diploma Chemistry: Part 3

In the concluding blog of this three-part series, Carl sets out the final four strategies that will help you to secure a level 7 in your IB Chemistry. Using past papers and mark schemes effectively, asking for feedback and support from your teacher or tutor, and remembering to have a life outside of your studies are all key!

How to ace the German IB interactive oral exam

Amassing a good range of vocabulary is key to scoring highly in your German IB. This is particularly true for the oral element of the exam when you will be asked to form and voice an opinion. In this blog, Maggie sets out some top tips for how you can best prepare for the interactive oral assessment. Having a few key expressions up your sleeve and reading widely around your chosen topics could get you well on your way to acing the exam!

Five steps to improve your internet connection for online tutoring

A bad internet connection can be frustrating for both student and tutor when tuition is taking place online. Following these 5 simple steps can dramatically improve the quality of connection and allow students to connect with the world's best tutors, wherever they may be!

How to tackle an unseen text

In this blog, top English tutor Isabel demystifies the unseen text and sets out 5 simple steps that will help you to demonstrate how you have mastered the art of practical criticism. As obvious as it sounds, reading the text is a great place to start! Students can often panic and put pen to paper before really understanding the text in question.

The 7 Benefits of Hiring a Qualified Teacher as Tutor

Choosing a tutor can be a very personal and highly-involved process. Parents are overwhelmed with choices, ranging from teachers that tutor part-time, full-time tutors, and even university students looking to earn some much-needed cash. In this article, our top Chemistry tutor Carl lists 7 reasons why choosing a qualified teacher is the best option to help your child achieve academic success.

How to get a Level 7 in IB Diploma Chemistry: Part 2

In this blog - the second of a three-part series - Carl sets out the next four of 12 top strategies that will help you secure a Level 7 in your IB Diploma Chemistry. Last time, we looked at the importance of being an independent learner and putting in the effort to understand everything you’re taught. In part 2, we’ll look at how you can test that understanding, some advice for choosing an IA, and why understanding Assessment Objectives is important.

Why should I study English literature?

If you decide to study English literature beyond GCSE, it is important that you ask yourself "why" and justify your choice. Whether you are a bookworm wanting to pursue your love of literature, or see the subject as a way to develop your communication skills, there really is no right answer.

Fair testing and repeated tests in Science – what’s the difference?

In this blog, our lead 13 Plus Science tutor Phil uses "Pokemon Go" to explain the difference between fair testing and repeated tests. Knowing the difference could help secure top marks at Common Entrance.....and help Pikachu avoid getting caught!

8 ways to ace Physics!

Physics can be a particularly difficult subject to master. To get that top grade, organisation and reading around the topic are key. Most importantly, never be afraid to ask for help - the only stupid question is the one you didn't ask!

Making online Science tuition practical, outside of the lab

Teaching Science online may seem a difficult task, particularly for topics typically demonstrated in the school laboratory. However, as Phil sets out in this blog, for every challenge, there is a solution. While great communication between tutor and student is key, along with careful preparation ahead of each session, there is nothing to say that online Science tuition cannot be practical and interactive!

Top tips for scoring a 7 on your German IB exam

No matter whether you have chosen to take the German Language B Standard Level (SL) or Higher Level (HL) exam, you will certainly be aiming to achieve the highest possible grade. Many students think that in order to achieve a 7, you must be a genius and have reached a level of German which only native speakers can reach. These simple tricks will help you on your way to acing your exam and achieving that seemingly impossible grade 7.  

How to Pass 13 plus Common Entrance Science

Firstly, there is no formal pass mark. Individual secondary schools decide on their own thresholds and so what constitutes an A* at one school may only be a B at another. The minimum expectation stands around the 55% mark and for the most competitive and highly rated schools, pupils need to score over 70%. Some pupils may struggle with a particular discipline of science more than the other two and so, even if the pupil is never going to score highly in the Physics paper (for example), the average of the three sciences will be taken into account. Equally should they excel in the Chemistry then this will compensate for any lower scores elsewhere.

8 ways to ace your IB Business Management

If you're studying IB Business Management and aiming for top grades, the key is to think like a business leader: question decisions, find solutions to business problems and get your head around the figures. In this blog, Dan sets out 8 top tips that will set you on your way to achieving a 7 in your IB Business Management.

How to get a Level 7 in IB Physics: 7 top tips

Achieving a Level 7 in IB Physics is by no means easy. But following these 7 simple tips - set out by our top Physics tutor Nick - could get you well on your way.

Medimatters – IB Business Case Study Nov 2016

Summary:

People: Six former IB students in their mid 20s.
Product: An app that uses the smartphone to help identify insect bites. If they are dangerous, then it would send a message to right healthcare professional.
Progress: Discover that camera on smartphone needs a lens, so product becomes a service and physical good.
Market: Healthcare professionals and in Brazil before expanding.
Challenges:
> Launch quickly and then refine or launch when completed
> Need finance
> Location of lens production, method of production
> Copyright of ideas
> How to grow market
> How to reach market
> Business experience.

How to get an A Star on A-Level Maths

"To paraphrase an old joke, “you gotta practice”. There are no easy shortcuts to getting an A-Star in any subject, and this article isn’t going to pretend to offer any. Rather, the intention is to share some things I’ve learnt in my time tutoring A-Level Maths to many different students. The only way to the top grades is hard work, and this will need to be started well before exam season.

Economics IA Articles for the IB 2016-2017

Finding a suitable newspaper article can be tricky and often you might not know if it is suitable for your Econ IA portfolio. The following links below are recently selected IA Newspaper articles, approved by an IB Econ teacher and ready for your use:

Mastering the Graphical Display Calculator

In this blog, our Maths and Physics tutor Alan sets out how to make the Graphical Display Calculator your weapon of choice as you battle through IB Maths.

How to get a Level 7 in IB Diploma Chemistry: Part 1

In this blog - the first of a three-part series - Carl sets out the first four of 12 top strategies to securing a Level 7 in your IB Diploma Chemistry. Dedication, discipline and a lot of hard work are key!

Reset your mind to resit your exams

Facing exam resits? This blog - written by our Business and Economics tutor, Dan - sets out how taking a new approach and putting past exam results behind you can lead to success second time around.

How to ace IB English Paper 2: 6 top tips

IB English Paper 2 is all about showing your understanding of literature within a context. In this blog, Sobia sets out the 6 key things you should focus on as you prepare for the exam and pave the way to top marks.

Online tuition for 5 and 6 year olds – does it really work?

Our lead 7 Plus tutor Judith sets out the pros and cons of online tuition for 5 and 6 year olds. While there can be the odd technical glitch, students are getting increasingly tech savvy and online tuition widens access to top tutors, wherever you are.

The lazy student’s guide to being more business savvy

Of course you aren't a lazy student, but throughout your busy school day, how can you keep yourself up-to-date with the latest goings-on in the business world?

Five great activities for developing your child’s academic vocabulary

Reading and conversation are of course both excellent ways to develop your child's understanding and use of the more complex language needed to do well in school entrance exams.

However, the vocabulary requirements of entrance exams are demanding, and more overt teaching is sometimes necessary. Children not only need to be able to understand the meaning, but sometimes must also explain why a writer has chosen a particular word, or use their understanding of the word to explain a character or atmosphere in a text.

How to get full marks in economics essays

Want to ace the long answer questions in your A-level economics paper? Follow these simple guidelines to ensure you get full marks.

Technology to help with School Entrance tuition

Parents often ask what I think about children and their use of technology at home. Should I let my child read a book on the Kindle? Are learning apps any good? My child spends a large amount of time watching videos on YouTube, should I be concerned?

Planning a UCAS Personal Statement

Starting to think about your UCAS application? Lawrence shares his wisdom on how to write a personal statement that is coherent and showcases your talents and achievements. The key is in the planning.

Online tuition software

When conducting online tutoring, a teaching platform is used. This is basically an online software that allows files such as worksheets and tests to be uploaded on to a shared screen that is seen by both student and tutor. The shared screen usually comes with tools for editing/ typing/ drawing shapes/ annotating so that both parties can work collaboratively. Many of these teaching platforms also come with integrated video software so you don't need to have Skype on separately. All in all, making the experience a very interactive process.

How does Game of Thrones help you succeed in IB English? 6 top tips to own IB English Paper 1!

Ever wondered how you can use your favourite box set to help with your IB English studies? Read on!

“Get Set for Success” in IB English Literature: 6 Starting Tips…

Picture this: It’s 3 a.m. in the morning and you’re in the nodding phase. Around you lie sheaves of papers stained with coffee rings and the words of Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart are starting to blur into a meaning-less haze as you ponder on the irony of its title, while dribbling in a half-doze - before jerking upright, looking about wildly and slapping yourself awake once again…

How to get full marks in IB Economics graphs

If you really want to understand IB Economics, you need to know your way around the different graphs involved. In this detailed blog post, Jenny (our lead IB Economics tutor) talks you through everything you could ever need to know!

Eight top tips for home schooling Primary-aged children

Home-schooling is becoming an increasingly popular choice for parents all over the UK and internationally, and having worked both in schools and with children in their own homes, it is clear that children are able to access a well-rounded education whatever the setting! These tips aim to give some practical advice to those who are either currently, or considering, home-schooling their children.

7 Plus assessment day – June 2017

An assessment morning in June for children who are in the process of preparing for their 7+ exams. This three hour assessment will consist of papers in English, Maths and Reasoning, sat under the 7+ exam conditions. The questions in the papers are based on a selection of content from some of the most competitive independent prep schools in London.

Seven top tips for acing IB Mathematics

About to embark on the IB? One of our top IB Mathematics tutors, Alan, shares his wisdom on preparing for the course.

The Maths behind the 50million.uk football competition

What is more likely – winning Vote Leave’s Euro 2016 competition or President Schwarzenegger introducing compulsory German lessons in American schools? A tongue-in-cheek exploration of some of the numbers behind the 50million.uk Euro 2016 football contest.

The Wandsworth Test 2016

Every year in late November or early December, thousands of students in London sit the Wandsworth Test, a procedure designed to select students for schools in the borough. This exam is designed to streamline the process for applying to Wandsworth schools. Although no school in the borough is fully selective, some do hold back a significant portion of their places for students scoring the highest grades on the test. With required pass marks for top schools like Graveney regularly exceeding 95%, it is vital for parents to know and understand what will be expected from their child.

Five tips to 11 and 13+ interview success

Is your child worried about an upcoming interview at 11 or 13 Plus? Finnian, one of our most experienced school entrance tutors, gives a valuable set of tips and hints for both parents and students in how to success at this tricky process.

10 things I’ve learned tutoring students for the 7+ exam

How to get 45 points on the IB

108 students scored the maximum 45 points on their IB Diploma in June 2014, out of almost 100,000 worldwide. In other words, only one in a thousand students achieved maximum grades last year. With these kind of odds against you, you need a bit of help, so the purpose of this (moderately tongue-in-cheek) article is to give this to you. Want to get the magic 45 points on your IB? Read on!

Prepare your child for a 4 plus exam without a tutor

In our opinion, there is no need to hire a tutor for "Four Plus" exams. All 4+ exams are based on active learning, engagement in tasks and an ability to show co-operation, manners and tact in social environments. These are all skills which can be developed at home through good parenting and common sense approaches. The following is a guide containing simple tips for parents to help their children at home.

What are the differences between the 7+ and 8+ exam?

Sitting both the 7+ and 8+ exam can be a daunting prospect for children, therefore it is important that they become familiar with working under strict time constraints before the exam takes place. There is significant competition for entry into schools at both 7+ and 8+. For example, for every one place at Westminster Under or Colet Court, 8 or more boys may sit the entrance exam.

Last-minute AS-Level Maths study tips

Is the IB better than the A-Level?

Do you have a child in Year 11 (or equivalent) who is currently trying to decide what to study next year? If so, you may have heard of the International Baccalaureate (IB). Many schools in the UK are now offering the IB as an alternative or replacement for the A-Level. We often get asked which is the better qualification - here we give our opinion!

On Multiple Intelligences (or why David Beckham is much smarter than you think)

Intelligence is a strange, strange word. Just stop for a moment and try to define what intelligence is. Perhaps you thought of an IQ test, a chalky blackboard, or perhaps the classic Einstein-with-crazy-hair may come to mind. But is it really so easy to define, and more importantly to me as an educator, what do I need to know about intelligence?