The end of Term 3 brings many things to mind; Year 12 and Year 11 exams on the horizon, Year 10 preparing for Term 4 exams and finalising their course selections for 2020 and for lower school it is consolidating their learning as they move into Term 4 and the finish of the academic year. Understanding what it means to ‘study’ in all these different scenarios is quite important for all of our students.

What does it mean to Study? Do students understand the difference between study and doing homework? What it means and how to do so successfully is important for all students regardless of level or year group. It is at this time of year that we focus on study. Study takes in many different aspects but especially for students that are wanting to be successful in exams and final assessments and tests, it becomes a focused event. Students study to learn, review, and master information, processes and skills. Students should be active in their study, not passive.

Understanding how to be active in study is vital. Examples are such as – write or rewrite notes, then organise by topics. Draw a diagram to understand information and/or processes. Write out solutions to problems or write a summary of information. Writing allows the brain to follow the process of learning when a student is engaged with study.

For Year 11 and 12 students preparing for ATAR exams, using past papers will not only assist with content knowledge but in the process of specific course exam styles. All teachers have access to these papers and will be sharing these with students as well as past questions from exams. Students should be utilising this information as great models of questions to practice during this time of study. The City of Joondalup Library also has WACE and ATAR exams resources that can be found at the library during opening hours; please go to https://www.joondalup.wa.gov.au/place/joondalup-library to find out more information. Another great resource for all ATAR exams is on the School Curriculum and Standard Authority webpage at https://www.scsa.wa.edu.au/. Utilising past exams offers a variety of practice for any WACE exam.

Setting up the best study environment is a key aspect to successful study. Do you have a quiet space with a desk or table space that allows everything to fit on it that is needed for study? Correct lighting to see properly and without strain on the eye? Keep distractions to a minimum such as phones, computers (unless using them for study only – do not multi task for pleasure while studying) and music.

Balance study with rest and proper exercise and breaks. If you are straying away from the topic at hand, it is important to take a break – even a walk to get up and get a drink gives your brain that space to reset and refocus when you sit back down to work. Proper rest at night is a high priority during exam time. Feeding your body with a healthy diet not only makes you feel good each day but gives your brain the nourishment it needs to focus on maximum.

While this time of exam study may find students stressing, a small amount of stress will keep them focussed – if there is too much stress due to study or exams, then it is time to talk to someone about the nature of that stress. Sometimes it is just a discussion with parents or messages to teachers that will help to put this to rest. Helpful ways to manage exam stress can be found in Mrs Carter’s article in this newsletter.

As the term ends, find the correct balance of study and down time to be at your best for whatever academic event comes your way – Exams, Assessments or the in-class tests. Knowing how to be prepared is the best way forward.

We in the Curriculum Office support our students to be at their best. Remember, we are here to assist in any manner. All the best to all of our students for the end of this academic year!

Kimberly Eyre

Dean of Studies