Exams success tips
• Educationist advises candidates, students how to pass UTME, WASSCE without tears
By Gabriel Dike
As over two million candidates prepare for the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and the May/June West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), President, Association for Formidable Educational Development (AFED), Mr. Emmanuel Oji, says success in the impending UTME and WASSCE lies principally in the hands of the students and their schools. He advised the over millions students writing the two exams to study hard, use the approved syllabus and avoid procrastination.
He urged schools to support students with special needs as well as organise extra tutorials for them: “I would like to see a prosperous Nigeria and such depends largely on the quality of students from the schools. I would like to advise students to face their studies and hope that some of these tips for candidates preparing for major exams, like the WASSCE and the UTME can be of help.”
Good grades and high score
Oji: “For the students to achieve good grades or high scores in the UTME, they must know the syllabus and ensure that they are studying with the right materials. They should set achievable goals and targets for their studies, create a study plan and stick to it; take practice tests to get familiar with the questions.
“Get plenty of rest and exercise as this will help to improve focus and concentration. Ask for help if they’re struggling with any concepts or topics, make sure to take regular breaks to avoid burnout. Finally, the students must believe in themselves and have confidence in their abilities.
“Candidates must avoid procrastination and start studying early, make sure to understand the concepts and not just memorise facts. Use active learning strategies, such as practice problems, flashcards and mnemonics.
“Reduce stress and anxiety by getting plenty of sleep, eating healthy and exercising regularly. Work on time management skills, such as setting a study schedule and using a timer to stay on track and take practice tests and review the results to identify areas of improvement.
“Nigeria cannot afford to lose a generation of a prosperous future owing to lack of commitment to education. Every student must work for the future they want share with others through their books now.
“During the examination, ensure you read and understand the questions very well. Don’t waste your time on any question you don’t understand. Leave it and come back to it if you have time remaining. Avoid unnecessary fraternity in the exams hall.
Schools’ roles before exams
“Schools are actually the cultural centre for students positive attitude that can help them overcome examination demands. This scholarly attitude is important given how important exams are for students in Nigeria.
“Schools can help students with the provision of quality and experienced teachers, who can effectively deliver the curriculum and help students with important tips ahead of the challenge, providing access to quality learning materials, including textbooks, workbooks, and technology.
“Other tips are fostering a positive and supportive learning environment that motivates students to do their best. Providing opportunities for extra help and tutoring, especially for struggling students, support for students with special needs, such as those with learning disabilities or who come from low-income families.
“These are just few examples of ways that schools can support students in achieving better grades. It’s important to remember that every student is different. What works for one student may not work for another. Schools should be flexible and willing to adapt their approach to meet the needs of individual students.”
For the WASSCE, SS 3 students must obtain five credits including English and Mathematics to secure admission with a high score in the UTME.
Credit: The Sun
