A language approach to unpacking exam questions

Audience: Academic staff, PG research, PG taught

Date: Thursday 30 October 2025

Times: 14.00 to 15.00

Programme: GRADskills

Key details: In this workshop, we will help you develop techniques to unpack exam questions. From a language point of view, we will reflect on exam instructions and how they can be interpreted.

Target audience

Although we welcome all students, this workshop would be particularly beneficial for those who speak English as an additional language and have an IELTS score of 6-7; Profile 7D; Profile 6D; Profile 5D, Profile 4D and Profile 3D.

Course information

In this workshop, we will help you develop techniques to unpack exam questions. From a language point of view, we will reflect on exam instructions and how they can be interpreted. 

Aims and objectives

By the end of the lesson, you will be able to  

  • Identify keywords to help you respond to exam questions 

  • Develop your ability to plan effective respond to exam questions 

Tutors

Dr Paula Villegas Verdu

Course provider

IELLI
Email: ielli@st-andrews.ac.uk