We now know that spelling is not necessarily an indication of intelligence, but that it does have an influence on other people’s perception of the writer. Here are a few tips on how to improve your spelling:

Use as many senses as possible – look at the word, say it out loud, hear it (and the sounds it makes) and write it down. This is not only a great trick for learning spelling, but the more senses we use in all our activities, the richer the learning experience will be.

Read a lot – not just books, but read everything around you e.g. food packets, billboards, road signs, and newspapers. The more you see the correct spelling of words, the better you will remember it.

Test yourself on spelling – relying on spell-checks can be to your detriment more than to your advantage. Spell checks notice spelling errors and won’t pick up on words that may be spelled correctly, but is used in the wrong context.

Pay attention to your mistakes – if you always misspell a word, drill yourself. Practice until you get it right.

Try writing down what someone says, while they speak – this causes you to quickly put letters to sounds and can strengthen your grapheme-phoneme mapping skills.

Study spelling and the exceptions – revise a few spelling rules and familiarise yourself with it.

Challenge yourself – short words are usually easy to spell. If you hear a long or unfamiliar word, try to spell it. Sound it out loud and visualise it. The more you do it with hard words, the easier the rest will seem.

Use mnemonics – this turns words into a picture, a rhyme, a sentence or anything else that makes it easier to remember. For example, rhythm – Rhythm Helps Your Two Hips Move.

Learn commonly misspelled words – there are many lists of commonly misspelled words available online.

Make a list of the words you usually spell incorrectly – practice these words.

Check the origin of the word in the dictionary – many English words have Greek or Roman origins. If you understand where the word comes from and how it is put together, you will remember the spelling.

Break it into syllables – sometimes words are difficult to spell because they are too long. Syllables are much easier to spell. E.g. embarrassed – em-bar-ras-sed.

Sound it out – this does not work with all words though.

Play word games – it not only helps with spelling, but also assists in developing relationships in families. Everybody can have fun together, while learning new words and practicing their spelling.

Make flashcards or posters of words you always struggle with and put them up in your room.

1) Because they give you a head start of what the exam might be like.

2) They prepare you and help boost your confidence when approaching exams.

3) They come with memos enabling you with good skills of answering questions.

MatricLive provides you with passpapers for every Subject so use them.

Study tips

Success can’t be guaranteed by only studying the night before an exam.

Write down the dates of your preliminary and final Grade 12 exam timetable so that you can plan a study timetable for all subjects.

Don’t spend more than two hours a day on one topic. Don’t try and squeeze too much into one session. By covering smaller sections of work, you’ll master them quicker.

Don’t just read through your notes or textbook. Be active by making summary checklists or mind maps. Highlight the important facts, formulae and definitions you’ll need to memorise. You may find it useful to say definitions out loud.

When using questions from previous exam papers, you should try and answer the questions without looking at your notes or solutions; time yourself: you should be answering at a rate of one mark per minute; if you didn’t get the question right, try it again after a few days. Whatever happens, don’t be discouraged. Boost your brain power during study time

The term “brain food” is more than a myth. And with matrics cramming as much as possible before their final school exams, few are aware of how the food they eat affects the process.

In fact, certain foods can enhance the studying process and others hamper it. Nutritionist Katherine Megaw says one should think of brains as factories. We use our brains all year round, but come exam time, pupils need to maximise the efficiency of the brain.

That is why our bodies need the right fuel, and not just “any load of empty calories”, says Megaw. She says a young person’s body needs a good, stable routine and schedule of eating, because this enhances the brain’s output.

Megaw lists the top brain foods as mostly proteins, healthy fats and high- fibre starches. Proteins include chicken, meat, fatty fish such as salmon and tuna, eggs, chickpeas, lentils and dairy. The benefit of proteins, says Megaw, is that they supply the brain and muscles with fuel to endure long hours of studying. They also maximise the energy load to ensure it’s evenly distributed throughout the day. Fatty fish contains omega 3, which is essential for brain function.

“Protein is a sustainable source of energy. It also contains iron, which carries oxygen to the brain tissue,” says Megaw.

Healthy fats include avocado, olives, olive and canola oil, flaxseed oil, nuts and butters. These contain fats, which help with memory, and the brain is capable of using some of these fats for energy.

High-fibre starches include wholegrain breads, oats, quinoa, millet, rice, sweet potatoes, starchy veggies and fruits. The fibre is important in keeping the digestive system going and functioning optimally. These foods also contain the whole range of vitamins from the vitamin B group – good for the nervous system and brain memory – to vitamin C and vitamin A – good for your immune system so that you can stay healthy during exams. Other nutrients and minerals include magnesium and zinc which boost your brain’s alertness and your immune system. While some foods will assist with studying, there are some absolute no- nos, says Megaw. The foods to avoid include sweet, sugary treats like chocolate and cake, and white breads and other refined starches are no good either.

Alcohol must also be avoided, as it affects the ability to concentrate and places a lot of strain on the liver. Megaw warns that while caffeine may give an initial boost, too much of the stimulant will cause a quick drop just as soon as it leaves the system. A common response to the stress of the looming finals is either overeating, or not eating at all. “Both are equally harmful to the body. Overeating tends to place a lot of stress on the digestive system and tires you out as all your blood flow and energy goes to digesting and not enough to your brain. Undereating will result in too little brain food to accomplish the task at hand,” says Megaw. Megaw suggests that parents sit down with their child to put together a meal plan and schedule for the exam period. “Assist your child by having the food on the plan available, and ensure they are easy to prepare and are foods they enjoy.”

Eating tips for the big exam day Ideal breakfast food includes high- protein smoothies for those who are too nervous to eat. A smoothie should consist of 125ml yogurt, 2 fruit, 10g protein powder, 125ml milk, 1 tablespoon of seed mix. For those who can stomach solids, a bowl of oats and a boiled egg will keep you satisfied for the duration of your exam.

Drinks lots of water throughout the day, as your brain is an organ which loves water. Taking a multivitamin with good levels of vitamin B and omega 3 will be helpful.

Scheduling meals throughout the day is critical. After breakfast, have a high protein snack, followed by a healthy lunch. Supper should also be high protein with lots of salad and veggies.

Getting enough sleep, exercising, eating healthily and having supportive parents are also vital for good results, psychologists said yesterday. Grade 12 pupils start their National Senior Certificate exams on October 17, with the practical Computer Application Technology paper.

But most matrics will start their exams on October 24 , writing the English home language, first additional language and second additional language papers.

Pretoria-based educational psychologist Lizette Erasmus said pupils should prepare by doing old exam papers and recreating exam conditions. "Don't go on Mxit for three hours. Switch off your cellphone and tell everyone not to knock on your door," she said. Erasmus said Grade 12s had to eat well and get enough sleep - a recommended eight hours. She said matrics needed to exercise daily to lower their stress levels and advised them not to waste time on Facebook.

Dietician Anja Strydom said Grade 12s should stay away from fatty foods such as take-aways and should rather eat salads, fruit and vegetables, as these foods would strengthen their immune systems and make their brains "sharper". "Energy drinks to keep awake during late-night study sessions should be avoided. Rather snack on fruit, popcorn and yoghurt," Strydom said. Pupils should not suddenly start using energy supplements and syrups just before exams as they could have the same effect as energy drinks, she said. "You must not take a chance and introduce something new. You don't know how you are going to react."

The support of parents also played an important role, Erasmus said, adding that matric exams were meant to be a team effort. Clinical psychologist Pauline Mawson said parents should be careful not to put too much pressure on their children. "Don't be over-critical. Show support and be available if they need to talk to you about the pressures they face."

She said parents should be aware of warning signs that their children were not coping with exam stress. Parents should talk to their children or seek help from a psychologist if their children become withdrawn, spend a lot of time alone in their rooms or experience drastic mood changes which last for about two to four weeks, Mawson said.

Basic Education spokesman Panyaza Lesufi said the department would today issue a "detailed statement" on the country's readiness for the exams. Lesufi refused to answer questions yesterday.

As more than half a million matrics in South Africa begin their exams, the hopes and dreams of our country rest on their shoulders. This is a huge responsibility for many teens who hope to succeed, despite tremendous adversity. Knowing they are not alone and having every South African rooting for them will help them be champions- not only today, but in the future as well.

Here are 10 practical tips all of us can follow to help our matrics:

1. Be patient and understanding by providing your 12th grader with silence, private space and support while he studies. Keep other children in the home quiet and away from him. Television and radio should be played softly so as not to distract the student. It is a good time to encourage silent reading in the family in support of the matric student. Family arguments should be taken outside where he can’t hear you. Worrying about family members will create an enormous amount of unnecessary anxiety and stress for him.

2. Have loads of healthy ”brain food” snacks around the house for him to munch on such as bananas, chocolate, fresh fruit and vegetables, watermelon, wholegrain bread and cereals, unsalted nuts, fresh water, and sugar- free chewing gum. Limit the amount of caffeine, sugar and energy drinks available to him. Provide healthy balanced meals which contain eggs, yoghurt, sweet potatoes, turkey, beef, and fish for omega 3 fatty acids. Supplement his diet with a tonic containing vitamins C, E, B6, B12, calcium, magnesium, and Alpha-lipoic Acid.

3. Invite your child to exercise with you during his breaks. Walk the dog or encourage your teen to join in a family dance/sing-a long. Even playing a quick game of table tennis or swimming can help release endorphins that enhance serotonin production, which combats feelings of depression and anxiety.

4. Take the pressure off your child. At this stage, your child needs support, patience and understanding. He is under enough strain as it is, so nagging him while writing exams is counterproductive. Help him to problem solve and think critically if the exams are proving to be difficult. Arguing about his untidy room is pointless at this stage.

5. Teach your teen perseverance . Even if he fails his matric exam, it is not the ‘end of the world.’ “Forget about the consequences of failure. Failure is only a temporary change in direction to set you straight for your next success,” says Denis Waitley. People who ultimately succeed in life have the ability to pick themselves up, create a new path, and continue with determination. Devise a plan B with your 12th grader which he is excited about if things are not going well. “It matters if you just don’t give up,”says famous scientist Stephen Hawking

6. Be aware of signs of depression, negative self talk, feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, changes in your teen’s personality, and behaviour such as withdrawing from the family. Seek help immediately through your family doctor. Alternatively contact the South African depression and anxiety group on 0800 20 50 26 or the suicide hotline on 0800 567 567.

7. Sleep is vitally important for a student to be able to concentrate in an exam, so spending nights studying is not conducive to good results. Encourage your teen to get eight hours of sleep. If he is having trouble falling asleep, play a meditation or sleep CD that could help him to control his breathing and thoughts.

8. Teach your 12th grader the power of positive thinking and visualisations. We don’t know the true power of the human brainl. Positive self- talk and creativity may help him through a difficult paper."Work joyfully and peacefully, knowing that right thoughts and right efforts will inevitably bring about right results," says James Allen

9. Provide practical support in the form of tutors, study guides, study groups, and assistance from teachers. Even at the last minute a session with a good tutor or a chat with his Maths teacher can provide your child with valuable tips.

10. Remember to celebrate even the smallest success with your 12th grader, looking forward with optimism and enthusiasm. “If you don’t go after what you want, you’ll never have it. If you don’t ask, the answer is always no. If you don’t step forward, you’re always in the same place.”says Nora Roberts. Good luck to you all!

Take control of your study environment - study in a place that is free from distractions.

2. Make a "TO DO" list.

3. Use a time management schedule. (Plan your time)

4. Establish a routine. (Stick to your schedule)

5. Reward yourself. I can watch TV for a half an hour once I finish reading these 10 pages

6. Divide and Conquer - break larger tasks into smaller units - thereby eliminating how daunting the task seems. As you complete each small unit, move on to the next one. Before you know it, you'll be done

7. Use the 10-minute rule. When you have trouble getting started, select a specific task, such as three pages of reading or "I'm going to spend 10 minutes reading without stopping." At the end of 10 minutes, see how much you've done. Keep working in 10-minute blocks until you are satisfied with what you have done."

8. When you finish studying, do one more thing before you quit. Start another chapter/section; then you will be ahead when you sit down to study again.

9. Carry flashcards, notes and other study materials with you so that you can make better use of your open time. Recite and review your notes while waiting for the bus, riding in a car, standing in line, etc.

10. Do two things at once. Combine recitation and review with another activity. Recite terms and definitions while you are jogging or having your lunch.

Your final grade 12 exams are a major event in your life, so it's only natural to feel anxious and stressed. Not only do you have to deal with your own expectations and fears, but also the expectations of your family, friends and teachers. The problem is that these feelings, if not controlled, can have a detrimental effect on your preparation for and performance during the exams. If you follow the advice we will offer you today, it will not be hard to get control of your emotions before the big day. Take a break - Listen to your favourite music, watch a movie, go for a walk or let out a scream. Give your brain a rest. Even if the break is only five minutes of daydreaming, do it.

Avoid Comparisons - Stress is often caused when learners compare their own exam preparation/performance with that of their classmates. Use your own performances (e.g. in the trial exams) as a standard against which to set goals. Comparing yourself to others may lead to you setting your expectations either too high or too low. Have realistic expectations – It is important to set your sights high and work hard towards getting there. It is just as important to keep everything in the proper perspective. Know and accept your limits. Your life will not be worthless if you don't get every question right in this exam. Block out the unrealistic expectations from family and teachers.

Positive Self –Talk - Replace your negative thoughts with strong, positive self-talk like: "I may not have succeeded last time, but this time I am better prepared !" Reward yourself whenever you succeed. Be positive about what you do know, not negative about what you don't. Congratulate your self each day that you know more now than the previous day.

Eat Right - Some foods like milk and bananas are more calming than others. Avoid junk foods. Try to have a good breakfast every day. Exercise - Apart from calming you down, exercising also increases the rate of blood flow around your body, and to the brain as well. Take a brisk walk or do some stretching.

Final few minutes - On the exam day, arrive at the centre early and take a minute to relax. Instead of trying to cram during the last minutes before the exam, use the time to get into the proper mindset.

Exam stress can be a barrier or an aid to success depending on how you view or control it. The object is not to get rid of all stress during exam time because it is useful and necessary for you to perform at your optimum level. Control it!

Do not panic. Be cool, calm and relaxed.

Think positive thoughts.

Every now and again, take a short break by taking a deep breath.

USE THE DETER STRATEGY TO DO BETTER IN THE EXAMS AND TO IMPROVE YOUR MARKS

Knowing your subject matter well is one way of doing well in an exam. Another way is by adopting a strategy that best allows you to show what you know in an exam. One such strategy is the DETER strategy which we will discuss today. Each letter stands for a key word that reminds you what to do.

D = Directions: Read the directions of the question very carefully. Look for direction words and limiting words. Does a question require you to discuss the properties of something or just list them? Does the question refer to a general or a specific situation? Ask the teacher to explain the directions that you do not understand. By following the directions you can formulate your responses accurately and to the point.

E = Examine: Examine the entire question paper to see how much you have to do.

This will allow you to

identify those questions which you know very well, not so well or not at all.

break the exam down into manageable parts

pace yourself through the question paper.

T= Time:

Decide how much time you will spend on each section/question.

If there are different sections for questions, plan to spend the most time on the sections that count the most marks.

Avoid spending so much time on one question/section that you have little time left for other questions.

E = Easiest: The second E in DETER reminds you to answer the questions you find easiest first. When you examined the entire question paper you will have already identified these questions.

If you spend too much time on a difficult item that comes up early in the question paper, you may later find that you do not have enough time to answer questions that you know.

R = Review

If you have planned your time correctly, you will have time to review your answers and make them as complete and accurate as possible. Also make sure to review the exam instructions to be certain you have answered all items required.

School Based Assessment (SBA), commonly known as CASS, is crucial as it helps learners to gauge the value of their learning.

It will therefore give you information about your own progress and enables you to take control of and improve your learning.

Schools Based Assessment constitutes 25% of your NSC finalmarks for each subjects.

NOTE:

It is your responsibility to hand in all your tasks.

This will give you a better chance of passing your end of the year examinations.

Failure to hand in your assignments, projects, PATs, as well as writing your tests may impact negatively on your Grade 12 final results.

If you do not have the correct SBA requirements, you will not receive a National Senior Certificate even if you write ALL your formal examinations.

NOTE: It is worth noting that SOME Higher Education Institutions allocate points, referred to as the Admission Point Score (APS), to the levels of achievement obtained for the NSC subjects. You therefore need to know and meet the requirements for the course at the institution at which you intend to register.

The National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) are an assessment test for first-year applicants to higher education. The NBTs are designed to measure a writer’s ability to transfer understanding of academic literacy (language skills), quantitative literacy (numerical skills) and Mathematics to the demands of tertiary (higher education) coursework.

There are two tests. The AQL combines Academic Literacy and Quantitative Literacy in one multiplechoice test. There are seven timed sections, requiring three hours writing time. The second test is Mathematics (MAT), which is also multiple-choice with three hours allowed. The NBTs are managed by the Alternative Admissions Research Project at the University of Cape Town. More information on the NBTs are available on their website at www.nbt.ac.za.

Who needs to write the NBTs ?

It is compulsory for ALL prospective first-year students at University, regardless of the matriculation year, studies at another higher education institution, or examination system followed, to write the National Benchmark Tests. The only applicants who need NOT write the NBTs are students applying for admission to a second university degree as well as students with a B Tech degree.

How do I register to write the NBTs?

Registration to write the NBTs is done through the internet on www.nbt.ac.za. Note that you will need your official South African ID or foreign passport in order to complete the registration process. If you do not have access to the internet, or encounter problems during the registration process, you may either call 021-650-3523 or send an e-mail to nbt@uct.ac.za for assistance

What does it cost to write?

Test fees are non-refundable and can be paid at any EasyPay point. Fees for the 2015 Admission cycle are: AQL only – R85; AQL and MAT – R170. Registration is valid only for the specific date and location you select and must be done at least three weeks prior to the desired test date. There is no late registration process. Should you miss the test for which you registered, you must register and pay again. Note that results are released only for paid tests.

What time are the tests and what must I bring with me?

The AQL is written in the morning (3 hours writing time), and writers must be at the test venue by 07:30. The MAT is written in the afternoon on the same day, with a short lunch break between the two tests. The MAT has 3 hours writing time. On the morning of the tests, you must bring:

Your ID Book, passport, or certified receipt of application for South African ID

Your registration letter and EasyPay proof of payment (without this you will not be allowed to write the NBTs)

Two HB pencils, an eraser, and a pencil sharpener.

Lunch and water, if you are writing both tests NB:

You are not allowed to use calculators, rulers or dictionaries.

START EARLY AND MANAGE YOUR TIME!

Exams - they can stress even the most organized of students. But they don’t have to.

The trick is to start early. That’s why we are talking final exams NOW! Cramming doesn’t work. When you start to study weeks ahead you have plenty of time to read everything. When you start early enough you can easily avoid the stress and anxiety of pulling an all-nighter. If you have not done so already, START TODAY! Begin by drafting a plan that will reflect a balance between the regular study periods, time for revision and time for other activities of your life. There are obviously times that are fixed and non-negotiable, e.g. school time, religious observances, etc. Under your control is the time you spend on studying, revising, sleeping and importantly, time for leisure and social activities. Your Time Management Schedule should reflect a balance between all these daily commitments.

TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR LIFE, START PLANNING NOW!!

Self discipline is important!

Sit down and divide your work into specific tasks so that you are able to draw up a time-table. A study plan is a plan which covers all your work for the period of one academic year. The objective of a study plan is to help you keep track of all tasks (formal and informal) to ensure that you prepare and plan for your performance and complete all your tasks in good time. This entails the drawing up a year plan which should beconverted into short-term plans weekly and daily plans. The idea is to cover all activities for your seven subjects, including making time for your other activities and chores. Once you have worked out your study plan for the year, you should put your plan into action and refine or redesign it where it hasn’t worked.

Steps to be followed:

1. Develop an Annual / Year Plan:

Identify and record the beginning and end dates of each school term.

Identify and record all dates relevant to the study of your seven subjects, viz.

All exam dates for individual subjects

All test dates

All assessment task submission dates

Allow sufficient time for the completion of assessment tasks (assignments, projects, or research reports, etc.).

TIPS ON HOW TO MANAGE YOUR TIME EFFECTIVELY

1. Develop weekly planning schedules:

At the beginning of each month, design a schedule for each week (e.g. Sunday to Saturday):

You do this by building the activities indicated on the year plan into a weekly schedule.

Then review the weekly schedule at the beginning of each week (e.g. Sunday evening) to know exactly what needs to be done each week.

Indicate routine and fixed activities (including travelling time, relaxation, sport commitments, meals and family time) and their timeframes on a seven-day plan. This will give a good indication of the time available for study each week.

It is important to maintain a healthy balance between studies and other areas of life.

2. Develop a Plan for each day:

Develop a list of what needs to be done by the end of each day from a studying point of view.

Choose a suitable study time for each day, including weekends.

One of the most important criteria for succeeding in life is to know yourself.

Identify your most productive time (morning, afternoon or evening). Studying early in the morning is the best.

Always start with the most difficult work first. It will make you feel better once you have completed some of the more difficult sections of your work first.

Avoid intellectual exhaustion by geting enough sleep. Most people need 7 to 8 hours sleep each day.

Eat well because your body needs sustenance to function properly.

Avoid eating junk food, caffeine and other stimulants.

Take regular short and effective breaks (e.g. Take a 5 minute break every 40 to 60 minutes of study).

Exercise regularly.

Also take some time out to relax with friends and family. However, you should not lose focus. Your studies always come first! Know your learning style:

Your studying should not be boring. Make it fun by using a variety of methods, which include writing, drawing, summarising, memorizing, listening (videos, recordings, radio lessons), etc.

If you study better alone, ask your family and friends not to disturb you while you are studying.

If you study better in a group, choose partners who are committed and are hard workers.

Communicate to your teachers and peers about the sections of work that you are unclear about. Importantly, try to get assistance.

Visual learners have a preference for looking and learning (seeing - think in pictures; visual aids such as overhead slides, diagrams, handouts, etc.).

Auditory learners, best learn through listening (lectures, discussions, tapes, etc.)

Tactile/kinesthetic learners prefer to learn via experience (moving, touching, and doing, i.e. actively exploring the world - e.g. science projects; experiments, etc.) Prepare a good study space:

Organize a quiet place to study.

Inform your family members and your friends about your study time to avoid interruptions and distractions.

Forget about your cellphone!!!

Make sure you have the necessary study material, (you can ask for assistance from your family).

Sit at a desk/table/ flat surface while studying. Studying while lying on bed is not only a lazy way of studying, it is also ineffective. Ensure that you are well organised:

Well- organized information it is easier to remember.

Try and link the different sections of your work so as to reduce the load. Do not study concepts and aspects of the curriculum in isolation.

Make sure that you have all available resources close at hand (textbooks, notes, study guides, calculators, dictionaries, thesaurus, stationery, etc.).

Ensure that you follow and stick to your study time-table.

IMPROVING YOUR READING SKILLS:

It is useful to know the PQRRR, also known as the PQ3R Method (i.e. Preview, Question, Read, Recite and Review).

The benefits of the PQ3R method include the following:

It reduces reading and studying time,

It involves greater concentration and focus while reading, and

It improves the recall of key information.

Preview: Scanning helps you focus in on the key information. By scanning, you get an overview of the material you are about to read. You can do this by:

Examining the chapter and section titles, headings and subheadings,

Reading introductions, conclusions and chapter summaries.

Question: Questioning is very important and assists in understanding your work. Develop a series of guiding questions and apply them to what you read. You can do this by:

Formulating and applying factual questions, analytical questions, and critical questions.

Such questions usually begin with “who, what, where, when, why and how.”

Read: Reading is a crucial skill. When you read you texts, poems, shoprtstories, plays, study guides, etc. ensure that you:

Highlight/ make notes about the main ideas of the text in the margin as you go.

Create summary notes after each major section, or at the conclusion of your reading. This will help you to consolidate the learning you have done while reading.

Recite: By writing out or verbally reciting what you have read, you provide yourself with a way to recall what you have read and critically question the knowledge that you have acquired.

Review: Frequently review your summary notes, highlights, and questions.

The following skills are necessary in order for you to effective take down notes in the classroom, or when listening to a video, radio lesson, audio recording, etc.:

listening, reading and questioning skills.

Always be prepared for any note-taking session by ensuring that you have the following at hand:

A note book

Pens, pencils

You can even record a radio lesson if you have the necessary devices/ equipment. In this way, you can always refer to aspects that you need to revise or gain clarity on.

You should write notes in an organized and concise manner.

Do not write down every word, but rather record/ write only the main ideas.

Always try to make summaries in your own words. This makes it easier for you to rember. It also saves time.

Make use mind maps. This is also an effective way to summarise and recall important facts.

Being able to recall and apply information in everyday situations is crucial in today’s world.

Here are some useful tips on how you can do this more effectively:

Always associate the information with something you already know.

Visualize what you need to remember.

Use repetition.

Use rhyming.

Use codes, clues and word associations to assist your memory.

Use mnemonics i.e. using the first letters to make a word to remember facts; e.g. colours of the rainbow (Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet – ROYGBIV. This makes it easier for some people to remember the facts).

Prepare model answers / rehearsals

Neatly write key facts/ notes on paper/ charts, etc. and display them around the house where you will see frequently them.

Use rhyming.

Use codes, clues and word associations to assist your memory.

Use mnemonics i.e. using the first letters to make a word to remember facts; e.g. colours of the rainbow (Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet – ROYGBIV. This makes it easier for some people to remember the facts).

Prepare model answers / rehearsals

Neatly write key facts/

Read! Revise! Remember!

These 3 activities are so crucial to being successful in the coming exams that we thought it necessary to revisit them and consolidate what we have discussed thus far. Why is it so easy to remember the contents of a magazine article or a good (not to mention thick) novel? Certainly your level of interest in the subject/topic has a great deal to do with it. However, it could also have something to do with the way you interacted with the material. One gets involved with the events, characters and images that the text portrays. Yes, there might be times that you want to cry when reading through your Physics book, but the reasons would be entirely different from doing so over a good novel.

Create an interest in the subject/topic. Be open-minded and positive.

Visualise the contents of a paragraph. Close your eyes and watch it like movie in your mind. Make visual maps.

Read short sections in anticipation of summarising from memory. Don’t read and write at the same time. This act of recall strengthens your memory and gives you the opportunity of testing and correcting what you memorised.

Think and talk about what you read, just like when you can’t wait to tell a friend. This will improve the quality of your interaction with the material.

Revise often. You will soon become aware of the many things you can remember and this in turn will boost your confidence and your interest.

Try to be as relaxed as you can. Don’t panic about the volume. Be selective of what you read and realistic about what you can achieve in the time that you have.

Work through (different) past question papers as if you are writing exams. This allows you to test your knowledge and recall ability. You will also practise writing the exam. Thirdly, it helps to get rid of some exam nerves. If you have access to more than one question paper, chances are that similar questions would be phrased differently, thus exposing you to different prompts for responses.

Balance your life by getting enough sleep, exercise and recreation. This will help to block out interferences and assist you to focus your attention and effort when getting down to studying.

Accounting

Assessment

Assessment tasks

Final examination

Compulsory Formal Asessment Tasks:

Term 1: 1 controlled test 200marks and 1 written report 50marks

Term 2: 1 project 50marks and a mid-year examination -300marks

Term 3: 1 controlled test 200marks and 1 case study 50marks

Term 4: Final examination paper - 300 marks NB. In addition to the above tasks, the following are compulsory informal tasks, which shall assist you in preparing for the formal tasks throughout your accademic year.

Compulsory informal Asessment Tasks:

Compulsory informal Asessment Tasks:

. A minimumof three class/ home work task weekly

. One monthly test of 100marks each per term

**PLEASE receive a copy of the summary of the Annual teaching plan and Program of assesment from your teacher. This shall assist you in tracking your progress in all assesments, study ahead, identify problem content areas in time and ensuring that you cover all the required content topics for the entire year in full in order to be sufficiently prepared for the final examination.

AFRIKAANS EERSTE ADDISIONELE TAAL

Assessering

Skoolgebaseerde Assessering bestaan uit 14 take:

e2 toetse: 75 punte

o 2 eksamens (Halfjaar en Voorbereidings):

250 punte elk

=>4 skyftake: 200 punte

e2 Literatuurtake: 85 punte

o 4 Mondelingtake: 50 punte

Die eksterne eksamen bestaan uit die volgende vraestelle:

=>Vraestel1: Begrip, Opsomming en Taal:

80 punte

=>Vraestel 2: Literatuur (twee genres): 70 punte

o Vraestel 3: Skryf (Opstelle, Lang transaksionele skryfwerk en Kort tekste): 100 punte

BUSINESS STUDIES

Assessment

School based (25): 100 marks

Term 1: Assignment (Case study or Data response), Control test

Term 2: Research project, Examination

Term 3: Media investigation with oral presentation and

Trial Examination

External Senior Certificate Examination: (75) 3 hours, 300 marks

Composition of paper:

Section A: Multiple choice questions, matching columns, provide one word for, etc. 40 marks

Section B: Three compulsory questions. 60 marks each.

Section C: Essay questions: do any two of the four questions provided. 80 marks.

ECONOMICS

Assessment

School-based Assessment (2S): 100 marks

Term 1: Assignment, Control test

Term 2: Research project, Examination

Term 3: Media investigation with oral presentation and

trial examination

External Examination: (75) 3 hours, 300 marks

Composition of paper:

Section A: Multiple choice, matching columns, terminology etc.) (50 marks)

Section B: Select three of the five questions provided. (50 marks each)

Section C: Essay questions: answer any two of the four questions provided (50 marks each).

ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE

Assessment

School-based assessment (SBA) comprises 14 tasks:

Two tests: 80 marks (40 marks each)

Three literature tasks: 120 marks (40 marks each)

Three writing tasks (essays, long and short transactional): (150 marks)

Four oral tasks: (50 marks )

Two internal examinations (midyear and September): (250 marks )

The external examination comprises 3 papers:

Paper 1: comprehension, summary language in context: 70 marks

Paper 2: Literature (poetry, novel, drama): 80 marks

Paper 3: Writing (essay, transactional and shorter texts): 100 marks

ENGLISH FIRST ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE

Assessment

School based assessment (SBA) comprises 14 tasks:

Two tests: 75 marks (35 marks each)

Two internal examinations (midyear and preparatory): 500 marks (250 marks each)

Four writing tasks (essays, longer and shorter transactional): 200 marks

Two literature tasks: 85 marks

Four oral tasks: 50 marks

External examination (November)

comprises 3 papers:

Paper 1: Comprehension, summary. language in context: 80 marks

Paper 2: Literature (any two genres):70 marks

Paper 3: Writing (essay. longer and shorter transactional): 100 marks

GEOGRAPHY

Assessment

School-based assessment consists of four main sections:

One project lx20= 20

Two Assignments (data-handling and map work) 2x20 = 40

Two Controlled tests 2x10= 20

Midyear and Trial Examination 2xlO= 20

The external examination consists of two question papers:

Paper 1: 1st session, 3 hours.

The paper is divided into two sections.

Section A will cover content on climate and weather (50) and fluvial processes (50)

Section B will cover content on settlement (50) and people and their needs (50).

Paper 2: 2nd session 1hours.

This question paper consists of four questions that are compulsory and comprised of the following:

Question 1: Multiple choice (10x2 = 20)

Question 2: Geographical techniques and calculations(20 single marks)

Question 3: Application of theory / map and photo interpretation (20x2 = 40)

Question 4: Geographical Information Systems (10x2 = 20)

HISTORY

Assessment

You will need to complete the following tasks for your formal assessment. These marks will count towards your final mark in your matric examinations. The tasks are as follows:

3 source-based/extended writing tasks

1 heritage assignment

2 standardised tests

June and September examinations

LIFE ORIENTATION

Life Orientation is 100 school-based assessment.

Every learner should complete:

2 written tasks: 2 X 75=150

2 examinations: (June &Sept.) 2 X 75=150

1 Physical Education Task (PET) 100

TOTAL: 400

LIFE SCIENCES

The following formal assessment tasks are compulsory:

Term 1: Practical task and formal test

Term 2: Assignment and midyear examination

Term 3: Practical task, formal test and trial examination

Term 4: Final external examination: two question papers (see content checklist).

Paper 1: 2.5 hours 150 marks

Paper 2: 2.5 hours 150 marks

MATHEMATICS

Assessment

Your final mark will be compiled as follows: SBA: 25% (100 marks) + Final exam: 75% (300 marks) = 400 marks School-based Assessment

Term 1: Investigation/Project; Assignment/Test; Test

Term 2: Assignment; Midyear examination

Term 3: Test; Trial examination

Final Examination

Two 3 hour papers out of 150 marks each.

MATHEMATICAL LITERACY

Throughout the year you have to complete the following school based assessment tasks: MATHEMATICAL LITERACY Term 1 Investigation Assignment Test Term 2 Assignment/Investigation June examination Examination 2 papers: Paper 1 (100marks) Paper 2 (100 marks) Term 3 Test Prelim September Examination Prelim. examination (25) 2 papers Paper 1 (150 marks) Paper2 (150 marks

PHYSICAL SCIENCES

Assessment For your school-based assessment mark you will do the following tasks:

Two practical investigations

Two control tests

One research project

One June and one September

Examination

These tasks make up 25 of the total mark for Physical Sciences.

The rest of the marks viz. 75 are allocated to the Final Examination .

TOURISM

Assessment

School based assessment (SBA) consists of a research task, 2 tests and 2 examinations. In Tourism there is also a Practical Assessment Task (PAT). The PAT makes up 25of the end- of-year promotion mark.

School Based Assessment (SBA) tasks 100 marks:

Term 1: 1 test (50 marks) and a research task (50 marks)

Term 2: 1 test (50 marks) and a mid-year examination (200 marks)

Term 3: 1 test (50 marks) and a trial examination (200 marks)

Practical Assessment Task (PAT) 100 marks

Phases of 50 marks each.

Final Examination: 200 marks

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