Ms Lynsey Porter, Deputy Principal - Teaching & Learning
Navigating the Post-Exam Period: A Guide for Students and Parents
As we reach the end of the half-yearly examination period for Years 7-10 and as Year 11-12 students work through a range of Term 2 assessment tasks, it is important for students to take a step back and reflect on the academic journey thus far. Here’s how students can respond effectively to their exam results and make the most of the upcoming terms.
- Prioritise Feedback Over Marks
While it’s natural to focus on the marks received, the real value lies in the feedback from teachers. Detailed comments and suggestions highlight strengths and pinpoint areas for improvement. Students should carefully review this feedback and seek clarification from their teachers if needed. Understanding the rationale behind marks can provide insights into specific skills or knowledge gaps that need attention.
- Reflect on Term 2 Goals
The end of the half-yearly exams is a perfect time for students to revisit the SMART goals they set with their Wellbeing Mentors at the beginning of Term 2. Were these goals realistic? Are these goals being achieved? Reflecting on these questions can help students gauge their progress and adjust their goals for the remainder of the year. Parents can support this process by discussing these goals with their children, helping them to set new, achievable targets.
- Focus on What Works Well
Identifying what worked well during the first half of the year is crucial. Whether it’s a particular study technique, a consistent study schedule, or specific resources, understanding these successful strategies can help reinforce positive habits. Students should continue to utilise these effective methods and refine them further. Parents can encourage their children by acknowledging these successes and encouraging them to maintain these productive habits.
- Address Areas Needing Improvement
Equally important is recognising and addressing areas that need improvement; students should view challenges as opportunities for growth. Whether it’s time management, understanding complex subjects, or improving exam techniques, focusing on these areas can lead to significant improvements. Students should seek additional resources, such as after school tutorials or study groups to help bridge these gaps. Currently, for all students, we offer a range of opportunities such as after school study groups for Literacy on Mondays and Tuesdays, Numeracy on Wednesdays and Thursdays, before school Science on Wednesdays and Fridays, and the Student-Based Tutorial program to name but a few. All of these sessions run in the Senior School Library.
- Plan and Adjust Moving Forward
Armed with feedback and reflections, students should create a revised study plan. This plan should incorporate their strengths and target areas for improvement. Setting specific, measurable, and time-bound goals can keep students focused and motivated. Parents play a vital role by providing a supportive environment, helping to monitor progress, and encouraging a balanced approach to academics and extracurricular activities.
In conclusion, the end of the half-yearly exams is a pivotal time for students to reflect, reassess, and plan. By prioritising feedback, reflecting on goals, focusing on strengths, addressing weaknesses, and adjusting plans, students can make significant strides in their academic journey. The Dr. Prue Salter’s Study Skills Website offers a range of resources for achieving academic success and personal growth. One resource that would be really helpful is the ‘Post-Exam Evaluation pdf’ in the list of ‘Things to Print.’
The login details for the Study Skills website are below:
Username: forwaverleycollegeonly
Password: 94results
Let’s embrace this period as an opportunity for development and look forward to a productive and fulfilling second half of the year.
Ms Lynsey Porter
Deputy Principal – Teaching & Learning
lporter@waverley.nsw.edu.au
