
This week the Class of 2021 will receive their matric results and IEB recognised distance educator, Brainline, says it is important that learners take the necessary time to prepare themselves emotionally and psychologically for whatever the outcome may be.
The Independent Examination Board (IEB) will release its results on Wednesday, 19 January 2022, while the Department of Basic Education will release its results a day later on Thursday, 20 January 2022. Brainline Mentor, Liezel Bruwer, says learners should remember poor results are not the end of the road.
'It has been a very difficult year for the Class of 2021, having had to once again cope with a radically different environment due to Covid-19. It is, therefore, important to take this into account but also to remember that the results don't define you as a person and that everyone has a different set of skills, knowledge and attributes,' Bruwer says.
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Providing support
Bruwer says parents or guardians can also affect how students experience waiting and receiving results. She has given a few tips on how to support these learners during this period:
• Check the expectations set for your children and ensure that these expectations are realistic.
• Continuously reassure your children that you believe in them and that you will be there for them no matter what.
• Do not compare results between siblings or with any other students. Compare their current performance with their past performance.
Tips for the students:
• Replace self-criticism with self-correction – learn from your mistakes
• Talk to someone – if you are upset or unhappy with your marks.
• Remember exams are not the end of the word
• Don't compare your results with friends
'Work through your options'
Learners who do not achieve their expected results, Bruwer says, may experience disappointment and stress ahead.
She says it is important to discuss various options with your family and teachers and put things in perspective.
'The most important thing is not to panic. If your results are lower than expected, work through your options with your parents and mentor. Contact your tertiary institution and discuss your marks with them if you fear that it might have an influence on the entrance requirements,' Bruwer explains.
Bruwer says there are also other options available besides asking for a remark.
'Learners who want to improve their marks may do so'
"If you were registered for the October/November 2021 exams and completed the Oral, PAT, Practical and SBA components, you are eligible to register directly with the IEB to write the May 2022 exams. Students who deferred some subjects to May and learners who want to improve their marks may do so. There is no restriction on the number of subjects you may register for".
Bruwer says another alternative is to repeat Grade 12 to improve all the subject marks.
'In the bigger picture, this might be a good alternative for certain learners who did not fare well due to various circumstances, and poor results might influence their future plans. It is, however, important not to make any rash decisions. Don't rush, take your time, weigh your options, don't be influenced by friends or news headlines and make the right decision for your future.'
Submitted by Brainline.
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