Head of Middle Years

On Wednesday afternoon in Week 3, we had the privilege of viewing presentations from our Year 9 cohort who shared their journeys of their Community Projects. After spending the past four months investigating an issue / need within their local community, then identifying an act of service which they could implement to serve that need, and finally actioning this service, students were able to demonstrate to their parents and teacher mentors their final journals. Although for some the live presentations took them out of their comfort zones, there was so much rich learning which occurred for each individual including how to draw together and communicate their entire journey, identifying obstacles and applying problem-solving techniques, learning how to collaborate with peers, identifying strengths and weaknesses as well as a broad range of other skills. Overall, the experience was brilliant for the students, who have set a high standard for future years completing the same project. I would like to acknowledge Mrs Erin Bagot, MYP Coordinator, for her organisation of the Community Project.

A few key dates/ events / things to remember:

• Middle Years Exam Week - Monday 21 to Friday 25 November 2022. Students will attend school as usual, and all exams will be scheduled throughout this week
• Step-Up Week - Week 8 of this Term, 28 November – 2 December, where students will commence their 2023 timetable
• Middle Years Graduation Ceremony – Monday 5 December (at the College). Subject Awards recipients and graduating Year 9 students will be presented to their peers on this day. 
• Activity Days – Tuesday 6 and Wednesday 7 December for Years 6 – 9 

Article to help prepare for exams - https://www.learningpotential.gov.au/articles/top-tips-for-tests-and-exams

It’s normal for your teenager to feel some stress if they have exams coming up, but there are ways you can help them manage their feelings. Teach your teen these tips to help them prepare well.

Be prepared

Encourage your teen to revise regularly over the term. If they have done their revision and thoroughly understand the work, they will be much more confident when the time comes for exams.

Take breaks

While they are studying, encourage your teen to get up and walk around regularly to keep the blood flowing and clear their head. This will help the brain to absorb and process information. Short exercise breaks are great too.

Drink water, not caffeine

Water is very important for the brain and body. Encourage your teenager to drink water and avoid drinks with caffeine. Too much caffeine can make your teen feel jittery and restless.

Feed the brain

While your teenager is studying, have healthy snack foods on hand that feed the brain and nourish the body, for example nuts, fruits and vegies.

Get enough sleep

Sleep deprivation can impede learning and reduce exam performance, so encourage your teenager to go to bed early during exam time.

Breathe

Encourage your teen to breathe deeply if they are feeling nervous. It sounds simple but it works – slow, deep breaths trigger a relaxation response and inhibit stress-producing hormones.

Think positive

Encourage your teen to see an exam as an opportunity to demonstrate how much they have learned.

Keep it in perspective

Very few exams these days are make or break. Assure your teenager that even if they don’t get the results they were hoping for, there are other pathways to get where they want to go.

If you would like further information about exam preparation, you can view the following link:

https://www.childpsychologist.com.au/resources/strategies-to-prepare-children-for-tests-and-exams