Why you should keep studying in uncertain times
It's uncertain times for Year 11 and Year 13 students. While you wait to hear how your exam marks for GCSEs and A-Levels will be awarded, it's unlikely your school is setting you any home-schooling work. So should you carry on studying or take a break? Here is why we think you should keep on working.
Awarding of grades
Right now, there is speculation about how grades will be awarded. The exam regulator, Ofqual, and exam boards are working with teachers to provide grades to students whose exams have been cancelled. It looks likely that the exam boards will be asking teachers to submit their judgement about the grade that they believe you would have received if exams had gone ahead.
To produce this, teachers will take into account a range of evidence and data including performance on mock exams and non-exam assessment - clear guidance on how to do this fairly will be provided to schools and colleges. The exam boards will then combine this information with other relevant data, including prior attainment, and use this information to produce a calculated grade for each student, which will be the best assessment of the work they have put in.
If you're not happy with the predicted grades
If you're not happy you will be able to appeal. There will also be an option to sit an exam early in the next academic year for students who wish to. The November resits look likely to be this date, which if you haven't done any work from now until September, doesn't leave you long to study.
Going on to A-Levels or University
Whatever your take on your predicted grades bear in mind the content in Year 11(and Year 13) is often needed in Year 12. If you don't have a firm grasp of the topic you will be studying at A-Level (or as an undergraduate) you will be lost. So it pays to keep reviewing and revising your subjects now. You do not have to stick to your strict revision timetable but ensure you regularly go over crucial work and methods for your subjects. Hence, you can go into Year 12 or to university well prepared.
Why a studying structure helps
A familiar structure is also essential in changing and uncertain times. Doing just two hours of work a day keeps you from feeling stressed about your grades and also on top of the work, you will have to do at a later date. Now is the time to go over areas that are your weak spots.
Look online for extra resources think about tutoring (our tutors are offering online help) for that face-to-face help and discussion. Keep your WhatsApp groups going for motivation and also chat with other students in the same boat as you. We are in uncertain times, but there is a multitude of ways you can keep your spirits and your studying levels up.