Spaced practice is a cognitive science principle which states that learning is more effective when distributed over time, rather than concentrated in one session. This means that learning should be broken into short, spaced out sessions, rather than long, intense ones, as this allows for better recall and understanding of the material. It also encourages learners to keep their motivation and attention when learning, rather than being overwhelmed and fatigued.

1. Interleaving: Interleaving is the practice of mixing different topics, skills, or approaches in a lesson. For example, you could ask your A-level students to complete a series of practice problems that cover a variety of topics. This is a great way to ensure that the students are exposed to a variety of topics, and it encourages them to make connections between different concepts. Research has shown that interleaving increases long-term retention of information, making it an effective way to promote spaced practice in your lessons.

2. Varied Practice: Varied practice is when students practice a given skill in different ways. For example, you could have your A-level students practice a given skill by completing a series of multiple-choice questions, essay questions, and problem-solving questions. This encourages students to think deeply about the material, as well as providing them with different ways to engage with it. Studies have shown that varied practice is more effective than blocked practice, which is when students focus on only one type of practice at a time.

3. Incremental Rehearsal: Incremental rehearsal is the practice of breaking up large chunks of information into smaller, more manageable chunks. For example, you could have your A-level students review a set of notes in short, regular intervals over the course of a few days. This encourages students to approach the material in a more manageable way, and it also keeps the material fresh in their minds. Studies have shown that incremental rehearsal is more effective than massed rehearsal, which is when students review all of the material in one go.

4. Retrieval Practice: Retrieval practice is the practice of having students actively recall information, rather than simply reading or listening to it. For example, you could have your A-level students take practice quizzes or answer open-ended questions about the material. This encourages students to engage with the material in a more active way, and it also helps them to better retain the information. Studies have shown that retrieval practice is more effective than passive studying techniques, such as re-reading or summarising.

5. Elaborative Interrogation: Elaborative interrogation is the practice of asking students to explain why they are using a given strategy or approach. For example, you could ask your A-level students to explain why they are solving a problem in a particular way. This encourages students to think more deeply about the material, and it also helps them to better understand the material. Studies have shown that elaborative interrogation is more effective than simply providing students with the correct answer.