Little Grade 12 Update

I have a termed schedule at my school. Each term is 10 weeks and we cover 2 courses. In my case it is English and Bio. 

So, today in my blogpost, I want to address major things I've learned this year. 

Bio: 

I've definitely learned new studying strategies. Bio is very content heavy and it's based on critical thinking a lot. The problem in Bio is that you have to remember everything from the smallest detail to the biggest concept. But that's doable. Very much so. 
I have definitely learned how to absorb, seems like unreal amounts of information. My brain, already, automatically filters the information and I've learned to think of the questions or the type of questions that might be asked on the quiz. 

English:
 
English really broke a lot of my barriers. I hate reading novels...and dislike writing essays. This term, I read 4 books, one on which was 370pg.(that's a huge amount of reading for me) and wrote about 10 essays; each one was being edited multiple times. 
Overall, I don't think I have ever spent so much time on a subject. 
Spending 4 days rewriting an essay for 3hrs-5hrs/day made me resistant. 
Not mad, not tired, but slightly annoyed and resistant. Resistant in the sense that I accept and do the amount of work I have to. 
English definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone.

Critical Thinking Skills

Hey, guys!

Whatever we do or study, requires critical thinking. Every section on the test has it. It is covered by every subject. Critical thinking is the ability to apply the knowledge to the new and unknown scenarios.
A good example of a critical thinking strategy, would be the 1st step in the CPR: look around and make sure there's nothing to harm you. This example looks at the bigger picture. Fundamentally, if you want to provide help for others, you must keep yourself safe. So, you have learn how to think one step ahead. 
Today, I will share a few tips on how to improve your critical thinking so your intelligence level will increase too.

1. Look at the Bigger Picture

Whatever subject it is, it will require us to look at the questions from different perspectives. If it is math or science, make sure you remember the general rule or trend. If it is English, make sure you remember the history/authors biography/prologue and epilogue.

2. Look at the Smallest Picture

Here, it is important to look a little in depth for an answer. For math or science, make sure to look for the key words, symbols and exceptions. For humanities, also check for key words and work through or provide the evidence thoroughly.

3. Ask Questions

Asking questions will really improve your mark. It's a whole different story on how to properly ask questions. Fundamentally, if you are working on a paper or just in class trying to understand information, try to extend it. Ask WHY, WHEN, WHAT, WHERE and HOW. Don't forget to also ask "what if not...?" and "what's next?". These questions will reveal a lot of useful information.
Side note: in sciences, mostly, what I lose marks for, is the ignorance of this step. I never extend my thought completely, even though I know it. Don't lose easy marks!

4. Put Yourself on the Place of a Person/Character

That might sound weird. But, if you want to thoroughly understand what the other person is going through, imagine yourself being that person. That way, you won't be very judgemental and have a full picture of a situation.

5. Assume

Predictions are crucial for critical thinking. This is where you really think one step ahead. I'm not only talking about the scientific hypothesis but about the everyday life.
Example: I really enjoy sitting  in the subway. Now, I realise that other people like it too. And I will most likely give up the seat. But when I see some teenagers who keep sitting and not giving up their seat to the old lady or something, I get ridiculously mad. Then, I start to assume. Maybe, that teen is in pain. Maybe, there was a really difficult day...Maybe, something else...we never know.

6. Plan

It's simple here. Make sure that you've prepared multiple plans for a certain scenario. Ideally, 3 plans.
Plan anything you could. And I know that some sceptics might say "well, you never know...and plans never work out"... Yes, if they are planned incorrectly. Plan smart, and consider every obstacle you can only imagine. Then, you're set!

Communication/Interview Tips

Hey, honeys!

Today, I'd like to address a crucial topic - communication skills. We all communicate, and have our own habits, which might be favourable or unwanted. Keep in mind, that communication is not only verbal. There's also nonverbal communication, which is equally important.
Also, if we are high school or university students, we will be undergoing interviews, therefore I thought that it will be appropriate if I suggest you some interview tips as well.

1. Speak Clearly

Whether you are at an interview, or having a casual conversation with a person, they, fundamentally, have to hear and understand what you are saying.

2. Avoid "umm; aaah etc."

It is hard to avoid making these sounds, while looking for words during a conversation. But it's okay to remain silent if you don't have an answer. This will suggest to a person you are speaking to, that you are a type of person who doesn't say the first thing that comes up to your mind, and that will also emphasise that you are well skilled in communication.

3. Look into the Eyes

If you are talking to an individual, it would be best if you will be looking a person into the eyes. Don't  stare, though! If you are doing it right, a person (or an interviewer) will see that you are focused and friendly.

4. Greet

This is more of an interview tip.
So, if you are greeting a person, definitely look them in the eyes, not around the room or at your seat. Secondly, do the  handshake, and while doing it - introduce yourself(name, etc.) and mention that it is a pleasure to meet the interviewer. No doubt, that you should research your interviewer ahead of time to learn their name and something special about them. If you didn't get a chance to research, ask them their name while handshaking. Do not take a seat, until the interviewers say or/they are seated. This tactic, will right away prove that you are well-mannered and respectful.

5. Listen

Like on a test, you should always listen to your interlocutor's question or comment fully before responding. Not only, it is a sign of respect, but it also gives you chance to analyse a question or a comment and respond appropriately.
If you are going to an interview that you know will be very long, thorough and valuable, it is a good idea to bring a paper and a pen, to note some nuances from the asked questions. It will highlight your organisation skills.

6. Know Yourself

There are some things that you just have to know how to answer, such as "tell me about yourself; what was the worst period of your life; etc.". The answers to this types of questions must be completely memorised, although don't dare lying. The interviewer is just looking for a better fit for an organisation. If you are not going to be chosen based on the respond you give, that's even better for you, since you will not be struggling at this organisation.

7.  The Art of an Answer

There's an art to answering a question. When a question is asked, do not repeat in in an answer. Ex. Q: How do you feel about zoos? A: I feel about the zoos that..... You should go straight on to the core of your answer. Ex. A: The zoos are....;....;.....;, therefore I think, that......

8. What if You Don't Know how to Answer a Question?

If you don't know how to answer a question, don't panic. There is a few things you could do:
1) Clarify. Maybe, you didn't understand the question correctly. Clarify it with a person you are speaking to. This will suggest that you are a type of person, who pays attention to details and doesn't throw out whatever comes into the mind first.
2) Take your time to think about it. Literally, say "Could I get a minute to think about it, please?"
3) Say, that you don't know (but do not apologise, that's a sign of a weakness). This way, an interviewer will see, that you are an honest person. You can't possibly know an answer to all questions, so really, don't panic.

9. Research

Depending on the type of interview you go, research and practice all possible questions. It will definitely make you more comfortable and confident. This will highlight your preparation skills, which are always valuable.

10. On Your Way Out...

Definitely, thank an interviewer for an opportunity to get to know you. Of course, mention their name, and wish them a good day. This, will leave a positive last impression.

11. Smile

Smiling is very important to emphasise that you are
1) confident
2) happy to be there
Although, keep in mind, that if a question comes in a serious tone, make sure to behave accordingly.

12. The Card of Gratitude

Send an email, or a mail with the card of gratitude. Mention the names, and highlight any specific questions or moments during an interview.

13. Behave

This tip, is so fundamental that I didn't even want to include it. BUT...Here is something important:
1) Clean up you social media accounts, because they will most likely get checked
2) From the moment you enter the building, you are already being "interviewed". No phones, complains or emotions. Behave calmly and respectfully.

14. Dress ans Prepare Accordingly

A few weeks prior to your interview, enter the building and see what most people are wearing. Wear something similar, and maybe one "level" more professional. That way, the interviewers will see that you've done a good job researching their institution and you will feel much more comfortable.
Obviously, bring an umbrella just in case of the bad weather. And in general, bring everything you need (resume, application, etc.) in multiple copies, in case there will be more than 1 interviewer.

Importance of Grade 11

Good evening, guys!

Today, I’ll address a blog post to all grade 10s and 11s. Students in grade 11 often get a little bit de-motivated about school, whereas grade 10s get get more excited about becoming seniors. 

Here is why you guys should be exited for being in grade 11.

1. Subject Selection

For the first time in your educational path, you will be able to choose the majority of your subjects. Make smart choices!!! Take as many different subjects as you can, if you are unsure of what you will enjoy. Also, even if you know what you like, choose a subject or two in a little bit different direction, and maybe that field will lit up your interest too. 

I took only 6 grade 11 subjects, instead of 8, because I decided to take 8 in grade 12. That way I will have 2 more subjects to rely on, in case I do poorly on one or two of my 6 bests. 

If you think that it might interest you - that’s a good choice!

2. Importance of Marks

In grade 11 your marks become actually very important. This is because some universities offer an early admission, so if you do a little bit better than the other students, you could be offered a placement. 

Also, this year all courses are very material-heavy, so keep in mind, that this year you will develop new studying strategies. 

3. Extracurriculars

Get involved in the school community. You’ll learn new skills and get your personal statement ready for the post-sec. application process. You could also start up new clubs and get volunteer hours from it.

By the way, regarding the volunteer hours….do them outside of your school. Potentially, in your field of interest. This way, you will be a more successful applicant and you will make sure that you are going to the right area of study.

Read This if You Consider Yourself Busy

Hey, love

The school curriculum is fast-pased, and we quickly have to adjust to it. Often, we have some extracurriculars to deal with as well. So, we become, as we say, very busy. 

But, how busy are we, actually?

Let's say we are at school. We attend classes/lectures. We probably just sit there and take notes, or something. But we can do much more! When you're taking notes, simultaneously work through them, by highlighting or summarising them, for example. That will help you save some time before the test. Then, we have lunch, or a break. We are eating, chating with our friends, but we could have done a little piece of work at that moment.

Then, we commute home. It's either the public transport, or we get driven/drive home. We most likely listen to the music. Although, we could have done some other type of work. Listen to the audio book, or review the notes from the class....

We come home. We have dinner. Maybe, we have some extracurriculars. We chat with our friends, check out our social websites....and then, we realise that we have a ridiculous amount of work. And we, hopefully, start doing it. After every bit of work, we take our breaks.    When we work though, we unintentionally, occasionally disturb ourselves with something. Then, we end up falling asleep very late.We wake up tired. And we complain about how busy we are to our friends and family.

But are we?...

It all comes down to our productivity. If you want to evaluate how busy you actually are, create and strictly follow a to-do list for a week or so. Then, see if you are feeling any different.
You are obviously going to be more tired at first, but much more accomplished. In a few weeks, if you continue with that trend, the fatigue will slowly disappear.

Like Thomas Edison said: “Being busy does not always mean real work. The object of all work is production or accomplishment and to either of these ends there must be forethought, system, planning, intelligence and honest purpose, as well as perspiration.Seeming to do, is not doing” 

By the way, if you'd really be busy, you wouldn't find the time, to read this blog post ;)

P.S. Don't stress over it too much, because every one of us has a way to go in terms of our efficiency. But we should make it better, and it will definitely increase our standard of living! 

How To Prepare for Post-Secondary Education While In Grades 11&12

Hey guys!

I thought it will be appropriate to write a post dedicated to the preparation for the post-secondary education. We all tend to forget that the time flies, and we don't pay attention to the application process coming up, or a subject selection...
Here, you'll find some academic and casual tips on how to get ready now!

1. Save

Save anything you could! But we are not only talking about the money, we are talking about materials. Save your notebooks/books/notes or whatever you used to study from. The first year of you post-secondary education will be mostly composed of your grade 11-12 material, so just in case you'll need to review - you have all the materials!

2. Buy

If there's a holiday coming up, or you just have too much extra money, buy something for the post-sec. This tip is fantastic if you are moving out from home, as you could get some home supplies! Even if you're living at home, think about something that you'd want touching, or just buy whatever you actually need (notebooks, cases, bags etc.)
You could also tell your siblings and friends to get you something for uni/college as a gift for a certain holiday!

3. Get Involved

Get involved at your school! This will not only make your life a bit more interesting, but you will: 
a) learn a bunch of new skills 
b) universities will be most likely to accept you!
For instance, I am a peer tutor at my school. I have a team of enthusiasts who have great marks, and they will be helping other students. My tutors will be getting a recommendation letter sent to the guidance office, some volunteer hours, and of course they will practice their leadership skills and review whatever material they are tutoring. 
You could be involved in anything you want, but if your school doesn't offer a particular club - then create it yourself! Even more advantages there!!!

4. Volunteer

If you already chose a field of interest, volunteer there - and see if you really like it! If you do, well then, you could mention it while applying to your programs; but if you don't - learn from that experience and change your educational path a bit! + you'll get volunteer hours of course!
Remember, that you are trying to aim from 40+ volunteer hours; not 40...
That's because you don't want to be viewed as a student who just wanted to "get it over with"

5. Get to Know Your Teachers

If you'll get to know your teachers while in a small classroom community, you will have an opportunity to:
a) practice that skill before post-sec
b) ask for a letter of recommendation
c) ask your teacher about his/her educational path and learn from it
Your teachers are there for you! 

6. Subject Selection

If you are in grade 10-11-12, you have to understand how important the subject selection is. Especially, if you haven't decided with a field of study.
First of all, figure out what you really don't like. How could you do that? By trying it out! In grade 11, take all courses possible! 
Then, if you are sure of what you really don't want to do, select the subjects from the other spectrum. And study that to the best of your abilities!
What I would personally suggest, is choosing a grade 12 math and at least one of the sciences (even if you are a humanitarian). This is because you will:
a) be more well-rounded
b) learn certain skills from the other subjects (math - paying attention to details)
c) have the prerequisites for other areas, in case you change your mind!


Good luck! 

Easy Essay Structure

Good morning, sweeties!

Today, I'd love to give you some tips on how to write essays. Whether that's a persuasive essay, opinionated essay, or a regular one, there are a few tips that a writer must follow. Firstly, I'll list the tips in the order of an essay structure, and then, I'll give you very general, overall tips. 

1. Introduction

Introduction Sentence

- Must be very general (no character names or plot revealed)
- Must contain the overall meaning of an essay

Thesis

- Must present all your arguments (chronological order, if applicable)
- There must be a paragraph per each argument
- 3+arguments must be created (In grade 12+, more than 3 paragraphs are very favourable)
- If there's more than 3 arguments, or if they are kind of long or complicated, write a sentence for each argument (thesis is not necessarily 1 sentence).
- Some specifics must be revealed in thesis (names, maybe, some plot, author's name and book's name etc.)

2. Body Paragraphs

- Each paragraph must be associated with one of the thesis sentences
- A paragraph must be 7-15 sentences + evidence
- Specific information must be revealed 
- Introduction sentence should strongly relate to thesis
- A detail about an argument must be presented (a little history of an argument, if applicable)
- There must be 2+ pieces of evidence per paragraph (quote, paraphrased quote, quote fragment, example etc.)
- Each piece of evidence has to be analysed 
- Concluding sentence must either smoothly lead to another argument or refer back to thesis
- Steps from 4-9 must be repeated for each paragraph

3. Conclusion

Restate Thesis

- Each argument made in thesis should be paraphrased
- No new arguments or conclusions must be present

Concluding Sentence

- Restate introduction

General Tips

- Prior to writing an essay, create an outline and include all brainstorming and details there
- Write formally, unless it is a special form of essay (No use of pronouns, avoid cliches, don't use short form etc.)
- Don't write long sentences for clarity purposes
- Use synonyms for very unacademic words and paraphrasing
- Cite properly (remember your format)
- Check grammar and spelling