Local learners share tips on how they prepare for their exams

With exams already in progress, Review spoke to learners from local schools to find out what new study guidelines they are using now, which they wish they thought they had known earlier. Here is what some of them had to say:

Ramasela Chantel Mokoena from Taxila Secondary School says that she uses past exam papers as well does extra research to get a better as well as deeper understanding of the work. "Referring back to past exam papers really does help, I have been discouraged not to use them as curriculum changes however they do assist with studying and serve as sort of like a study guide for the work we need to cover," she explained.

Sabrina Hassan Gr 12 learner from Taxila Secondary school said that she now prefers to study in groups because it affords her an opportunity to get more information which she may need to enhance her better understanding of the work.

Janine Roux From Hoërskool Westenburg Secondary is a Gr 12 learner who says she has learnt to dedicated sufficient time to each of her subjects. “I give each subjects an hour to each subject every day after school and then take a break and push time with either watching television or taking a walk. With this new strategy I am not feeling overwhelmed with the workload,” she said.

Lehlogonolo Mokoena from Hoërskool Noorderland – I recently learned the value of giving yourself time to study before a test or exam. Previously I used to study the night before but now I prepare weeks in advance and I can see the difference. I am an A student when it comes to Accounting, I do balance sheets and income statements very well whereas previously I used to do terribly at the subject.

Lufuno Mawelewele from Flora Park Comprehensive High School shared that he has learnt to accept that you cannot possibly know everything but you can give it your best shot. Just work hard, give it your best and the results will show that. It’s not always easy to learn to accept things but you find peace when you do accept the things you cannot change”.

Paul Chokoe from Hoërskool Noorderland- ” In previous years, I couldn’t focus when I am studying but this year I’ve learned more about managing my time. I now study for up to eight hours in a day and I am very proud of myself and I can see the results of my hard work. “

Khanyisa Maswanganyi from Flora Park Comprehensive High School: ” I have learnt to stop sweating the small things and it is working wonders. My main focus is making sure that I come out of that exam room with a smile on my face because I did well and that is exactly what I will do.”

Boitumelo Mafatla from Hoërskool Noorderland – ” My mother has been helping with my studying lately and it is bearing fruits. She has been playing a very active role in my preparations by motivating and showing me how to do things. Because of that, my confidence in my ability to succeed has strengthened. “

Koena Manaka from Hoërskool Noorderland- ” Being super smart is not one of my abilities but I am a dancer. I know that is not enough so I have got to keep up with my school work. I try my best to keep at a level where everyone is, and I have started putting in more hours of studying than I ever have and it’s helping me because I am learning new things every time I hold a book. “

Moreke Selamolela from Hoërskool Noorderland: “I have learnt that time management is crucial especially when you are about to start with exams. I have learned the importance of not panicking because it is one of the problems that cause you not to do well. You have to be focused and not panic. Our principal, Thabo Ratema always tells us that to avoid panicking, take it like you are writing class work and you wont panic. Trust that you have studied and take on the exam as best as you can.”

reporter29@nmgroup.co.za