Mock Exams: What do the Grades Mean and How to Help Your Child use them for Success

So, your child’s slogged through the mock exams and the results are in.  You’re feeling a rollercoaster of emotions about them – relief, surprise, dread.  And your offspring may be exhibiting a bit of the defiant "Who cares, they’re just mocks" bravado.  Rest assured, you’re not alone in this. Mock grades are like a map – they show students and parents alike where they are now, and what might need a bit of extra focus in the months before the real GCSEs. Here’s how to make the most of them and support your child without them feeling like they’re just reliving exam season all over again.

1. Don’t Panic (or Get Too Comfy) – It’s About Progress, Not Perfection

First things first, breathe. Mocks offer a snapshot, not the final word on ability.  Whether they've outdone themselves or underperformed, these grades are feedback – something they can use to level up.  What’s critical is seeing them as a way to understand where to focus, where to improve, and where to stop spending precious revision time on topics they already know inside out.

2. Focus on Skills, Not Just Topics

It's tempting to look at that grade, zero in on “topics I failed”, and panic-revise everything.  Instead, try to look at the skills behind each section.  If they struggled with an English Lit question on character analysis, for example, it may not mean they don’t ‘get’ Macbeth; it could mean they need to practise structuring analytical paragraphs or connecting points to the question’s focus. Identify the skill – analysis, synthesis, argument building – then practise it across different texts or topics. 

3. Set Targeted, Manageable Goals for Revision 

Mocks give students (and parents) valuable insights into where to direct their energy.  Rather than getting overwhelmed with the enormity of “revise everything,” students can target specific areas based on mock feedback.  For example, if they found essay timing difficult, they could practise writing under timed conditions.  Effective revision is focused and purposeful – and the mocks provide a clear roadmap for where to start.

4. Ask for Specific Help – Teachers and Tutors Love This!

Teachers are an incredible resource when students approach them with specific areas for improvement.  Instead of the vague “I need help with English”, a conversation that starts with, “I’m struggling to incorporate context in An Inspector Calls essays” can lead to targeted, constructive feedback.  It’s important for students to feel comfortable reaching out, and parents can encourage this proactive approach.  It helps the teacher understand how best to support your child – and it’s a practical lesson in advocating for oneself.  For even more bespoke support a tutor can be invaluable at this stage.

Final Thoughts – Keep Going, Keep Growing

At the LangLit Studio we look for patterns of performance and use this information strategically.  We work with students to understand their unique learning needs and build a strategy that focuses on effective exam preparation.  If you’re interested in learning more about how we can help your child make the most of their mock results, get in touch for a free 20-minute online consultation to see how we can help turn those mock grades into exam success!