If you’re a member of the Matric class of 2020, you’re probably completely absorbed with preliminary exams right now. And as soon as you have wrapped up with these, the limited time available means you’ll have to jump right into preparing for finals, which start in early November.
Despite the uncertainty brought about by the pandemic, it’s critical that you enter this intense study period with the right frame of mind, says Wonga Ntshinga, Senior Head of Programme in the ICT faculty at The Independent Institution of Education.
He says it would be understandable, but a mistake for you to feel that you don't have much power to change things or improve on your overall performance.
Ntshinga encourages Grade 12s to concentrate on remaining papers to make a determined difference with regard to their future options. “It’s important to be able to stay strong, motivated and effective right until the end. Don’t let exhaustion derail your momentum,” he advises.
“Work through any concerns around the rest of the year and exam logistics, so that you can put aside those issues causing anxiety and focus solely on your revision.”
After looking at their performance during the preliminaries, learners should assess how they have done and discover how much ground they still need to cover. “By claiming your focus, you can and will make a positive difference to your results,” adds Ntshinga. He further recommends that learners “hone your independent learning skills”.
He reminds this year's matrics that there are more resources available than ever before, even though the year has been a disrupted and anxious one. He advises them to focus on small victories and goals. When they are accumulated, they will carry learners through. “Spend your days as productively as possible and focus your energy,” he concludes.