Exam analysis

The following has been a theme for recent assemblies and is directed at senior students and their families:

For senior students it is crucial that you do what Bill Gates suggests - 'It's fine to celebrate success but it is more important to heed the lessons of failure.'

That means some work (yes - work) on analysing what you did right (and celebrate the success), and what you got wrong in the recent mock exams. For example - from recent analysis my English class have learnt the benefits of careful question selection and planning their essay. It's so tempting to launch into your ideas but what if you have misinterpreted the question? Take time to plan and think about what the question is asking.

Part of that work requires rewriting the questions you didn't get right and now attempting questions you found too difficult. Just reading over material is not enough. For the lesson to be learnt successfully you will need to get feedback from your teachers and/or family members and/or your peers.

Construction of a study plan from now until the end of the NCEA exams is also crucial for planning your study time(and free time). Aim for a balance and aim to keep to it. You can use an existing calendar in homework diaries to plan out your study time. I recommend you put a copy on the fridge or your bedroom wall so that you see it and revise it often.