By Fernanda Alvarez (RIS - Grade 6)
" OK, students, exams are coming up. Make sure to start revising for the test".
First thing you say: "Oh no." Why would you think that? Well, the MYP exams are like your normal tests, but they include all you have learnt so far in the school year. They usually cause stress because they make you feel worried about what mark you will get, what kind of questions will be asked and how well your other classmates will achieve. You usually get really worried and stressed, because sometimes you have high expectations from your parents or tutors. However, try to not get stressed before this time, as you could lose confidence and even focus while writing the paper. Here's some useful advice that you could use for avoiding exam stress:
In conclusion, remember that these exams won't last forever, and don't let your nerves take over. Be positive! Have the best of luck and try to apply this advice: it will sure help.
" OK, students, exams are coming up. Make sure to start revising for the test".
First thing you say: "Oh no." Why would you think that? Well, the MYP exams are like your normal tests, but they include all you have learnt so far in the school year. They usually cause stress because they make you feel worried about what mark you will get, what kind of questions will be asked and how well your other classmates will achieve. You usually get really worried and stressed, because sometimes you have high expectations from your parents or tutors. However, try to not get stressed before this time, as you could lose confidence and even focus while writing the paper. Here's some useful advice that you could use for avoiding exam stress:
- Let all your feelings out: chat with someone who will understand what kind of pressure you're under. That person may change your point of view and help you realize that exams aren't as bad as you think.
- Focus on yourself! : avoid comparing yourself with others as this could make you lose confidence. If one of your classmates revises in a different way compared to yours, that doesn't mean you have to change it or that you are doing the wrong thing. Everyone learns their own way.
- Get enough sleep: remember to always sleep at least 8 hours per night. Don't let your studies take that away from you!
- Exercise : exercising is one of the best ways to get rid of exam stress. Is doesn't only help you regain confidence in yourself but it is also healthy for your body and helps you change your environment for a while and get distracted from your studies, which will help you ease your mind. Remember being lazy makes your mind sloppy too.
- Revise and set yourself goals : go over what you need to study piece by piece. Don't just study a huge chunk of information all at once. Another idea for revising would be to search for quizzes on the Internet or ask a friend to test you. Also set reachable goals to yourself: if you want to memorize something, for instance, maybe try to go over it as much as you can throughout the week until its all stuck in your brain.
- Know when to start and when to stop: set a timetable for studying. Choose a period of time you think is appropriate for revising what you need to go over for the exam. Though, if you are studying and you notice that you are losing concentration, take a break. You aren't supposed to use all 16 hours you are awake for studying. Some people achieve better at different times of the day, find the time when you are the most productive and use it for studying, helping you to minimize distraction.
In conclusion, remember that these exams won't last forever, and don't let your nerves take over. Be positive! Have the best of luck and try to apply this advice: it will sure help.