Counselors' Corner
The holiday season is getting into full swing and you know what that means?
Yep, exam time is almost here. I know…Ugh, right? Well, if you have a sense of dread about midterm exams, my annual exam-focused Counselor’s Corner may be able to help. Exams can be a bit of a stressor in the life of a student for sure. You have a lot of information that you have incorporated over the past few months and yet you are unsure of what you will be asked to recall or use. Even a study guide may not be enough to help you focus on what you need to know. If you find yourself a bit tense about upcoming exams, give these tips a try.
Start reviewing now. Review in small chunks over an extended period. It has been proven that you will be able to remember more by studying small amounts repeatedly than if you try to study a large amount the night before the test.
Practice unpacking. Unpacking is a concept that involves packaging a large amount of something into a single container and then using the container as the trigger for your memory. Consider it like packing a suitcase for a trip. Once you have placed all of your items in there, then you can remember almost everything inside by simply looking at the suitcase. You can do a similar process with the information you have learned.
Get plenty of sleep the night before your tests. When you are well rested, you will be more relaxed and in a better position to process the questions on your exams.
Eat a quality meal before you come to school. Protein, fruits, and vegetables will be better options than a carb-heavy breakfast. Your body will regulate better and you will do better on the test.
Finally, breathe! During the exam, we tend to tense up and hold our breath as we concentrate. When that happens, blood flow is restricted and oxygenation is reduced. Deep, purposeful breaths will increase oxygen in your blood and improve blood flow to your brain. The result of this is that your recall will improve and your results should also improve.
All of these tips will help you when exam time arrives. Pick one or more and begin to practice them today. I am excited to hear how they help you. If you would like more tips to help you do your best on your exams, stop by my office or send me an e-mail. I have more that can help. So, do your best and remember that one test does not define you or how much you have learned so far. It is simply a spot check of a larger process. Keep it in perspective. And, above all, never forget that no matter your score…
You Matter!
Until next year…Happy Holidays
About Us
Email: slisk@graystoneday.org
Website: graystoneday.org
Location: 49464 Merner Terrace, Misenheimer, NC, USA
Phone: 704-463-0567
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Twitter: @graystoneday