From the Curriculum Office
Farewell Yr 12
Congratulations to Year 12 who finished their formal lessons this week. The functions to celebrate this occasion throughout the week were a testament to the work and perseverance of this year group. Congratulations also to those students who were recognised in various capacities for their academic performances across the year. All that remains now are the HSC exams, good luck with your preparations in coming weeks and we are confident that you will do well during your final exams early next term.
Year 11
Students finished their end of year exams this week. Year 11 will return to classes at the start of next term to begin their HSC courses. Enjoy the break and come back refreshed, energised, organised and ready to start the HSC course in a positive fashion.
2025 Electives
Students in Years 10 and 9 will be receiving a confirmation of their electives for 2025 this week. We hope to have confirmation for Year 9 2025 ready as well but this will likely be early next term.
If there are any issues with electives please contact the curriculum office at the start of Term 4.
Home Study Tips
Last newsletter we provided tips on how to support your student with their preparations to undertake home study. Below are some examples of different strategies/approaches to home study for students to consider. For those new to the process it is suggested you take time to try each approach. Moving forward, stick with the ones that best suit your learning style as well as the nature of the subject you are studying for eg the approach used for english may not be as suitable as the approach for maths or science.
Top Study Techniques for Success
Studying effectively is more than just rereading notes! Here are a few tried and true methods to help students absorb information and prepare for assessments.
- Pomodoro Technique: Study in Bursts
The Pomodoro Technique is perfect for students who find it hard to focus for long periods. It involves working for 25 minutes, then taking a 5-minute break. After four “Pomodoros,” take a longer break (15-30 minutes). This method helps keep the brain fresh and focused.
- Active Recall: Boost Retention
Instead of passively reading, quiz yourself on the material. Write down questions as you study and test yourself regularly. This forces the brain to retrieve information, strengthening memory. Flashcards or apps like Quizlet are great tools for active recall.
- Mind Mapping: Visualize Concepts
For students who are visual learners, mind maps can be a powerful tool. Start with a central concept and branch out to related topics, creating a visual “map” of the subject. This technique helps in organising complex ideas and seeing the connections between them.
- Teach What You Learn: Solidify Understanding
One of the best ways to learn is to teach. Whether it's explaining a concept to a friend, family member, or even pretending to teach an imaginary class, this method deepens understanding. If you can explain it simply, you’ve mastered it!
- SQ3R: A Reading Strategy
The SQ3R method is ideal for comprehending reading materials. It stands for:
Survey: Skim the text to get an overview.
Question: Ask questions about the content.
Read: Read thoroughly with the questions in mind.
Recite: Summarise key points.
Review: Revisit the material to reinforce learning.
- Study Groups: Collaborate and Learn Together
Studying with classmates can bring new perspectives and help clarify difficult concepts. Discussion encourages active engagement with the material. Just make sure the group stays focused!
- Spaced Repetition: Don’t Cram!
Cramming might work short-term, but for long-term retention, spaced repetition is key. Review material over increasing intervals of time (e.g. 1 day, 3 days, 1 week). This method helps move information from short-term to long-term memory.
- Use Apps and Tools: Make Studying Interactive
There are many apps that can make studying more interactive and fun. Tools like Evernote for note-taking, Anki for spaced repetition, or Trello for organising tasks can help students stay on top of their workload.
- Create a Study Schedule: Stay Organised
Encourage students to plan their study time using a schedule or planner. Breaking up subjects into manageable chunks and setting specific goals for each study session can prevent last-minute stress.
- Prioritise Self-Care: Stay Healthy
It’s important to remind students that adequate sleep, regular exercise, and a healthy diet are essential for optimal brain function. Short breaks, fresh air, and staying hydrated can make a big difference in focus and energy levels.
These techniques not only make studying more efficient but also help students develop strong habits that will benefit them throughout their academic journey. Encourage students to try different methods to see what works best for them!