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We are an independent, non-denominational, co-educational K – 12 school.
We offer performing arts & performance sports streams with an equal focus on academic rigour.

PDHPE – Studying

This is a special issue of The PDHPE Perspective as the seniors have finished their HSC Trials and are preparing for the HSC. This issue will begin with some effective study strategies followed by some ways to relax and reset.

Completing past papers is one of the best ways to study. When they have finished a section of a past paper – it doesn’t have to be the whole thing – it should be submitted to the teacher for feedback. The teacher will address three components: where they sit in relation to the marking criteria, what they have done well and where they can improve.

Rewriting the answer with the given feedback is important in ensuring that your child has understood the feedback that was given. When completing past papers, it should be done under exam conditions to make your child more confident in an exam environment – no distractions at all.

Flash cards are great for memory retention and understanding the facts of PDHPE. Flash cards are cards that have a question on one side and an answer on the back. Flash cards should have pictures and colours to aid memory retention.

A study timetable should be drafted prior to studying. An effective study timetable looks at rest time, subjects, lengths of study and prioritises each subject based on the day it is being examined. The amount of study time is dependent upon each student. However, seniors should be studying from 60 to 120 minutes without a break. After completing a study block, the break should be around 30-45 minutes.

The best way to ensure that your child will go the distance before the HSC is to ensure that they are getting enough sleep, eating properly and making time to disengage. Students should be getting a minimum eight hours of sleep; they should also be off their phones or computers one hour before they go to sleep (good luck!).

Eating nutritious food to fuel their minds and bodies plays a major role in longevity. Foods low in glycaemic index will provide a slow energy release for the day. A good day starts with a good breakfast, which could be Weetbix milk and banana, eggs on toast with some avocado or fresh/frozen fruit and yoghurt with muesli. Lunch and dinner should also be as nutritious. Some great meal plans are available at https://www.sportaus.gov.au/ais/nutrition/recipes

Disengaging is a hard. However, more study does not necessarily equate with better marks – better study does! So, it is important to understand that “switching off” allows children to absorb more information later on. Some ways to switch off can include:

  • Mid-afternoon power nap – about 20 minutes
  • Meditation (Smiling mind is a great app for this!)
  • Looking at the ocean or going for an ocean swim (might be a bit cold for that though)
  • Taking the dog for a walk – pets have proven benefits to reduce anxiety which is really beneficial.

When it is all said and done, the HSC is only one part of their life and it does not solely determine their future. That being said, have your child try their best to achieve what they deserve.

 

Warm regards,

Mr. Kaissis