June Exams 2021
The June exams are fast approaching and many students will be starting to feel the pressure. Perhaps the best way to counter exam stress is to come prepared. To this end, I have ten guidelines students can follow that will go a long way to helping them feel prepared and confident for each exam.
- Print a copy of their exam timetable and put it in a prominent and safe place.
(Exam timetables can be found on Engage). - Compile and stick to a study timetable.
- Give yourself sufficient study time for each subject.
- Identify topics you find most challenging and, if necessary, ask for assistance from the subject teacher. It is best not to leave this to the day before.
- Utilize effective study methods rather than simply reading the textbook. Summaries, mind maps and flash cards are examples of alternative study methods.
- Avoid pulling “all-nighters”.
- Limit your social calendar and put your phone on silent when you are studying.
- Avoid fad diets so as to maximize energy and concentration.
- Pack the necessary equipment for each exam, including a spare pen.
- Arrive punctually for each exam.
Parents should also be involved in their child’s exam preparation. We know from our own experience as students how easy it is to become distracted and bored. Encourage regular study sessions with short breaks, physical activity and healthy eating. Do not be afraid to check up on your child’s exam preparation progress, even if they are in their final years of school.
I wish students all the best for their exams and I hope that they have a safe and enjoyable holiday.
Sheila Marais
High School Teacher
Cambridge International AS and A Level Afrikaans
The Cambridge International AS Level Afrikaans syllabus enables learners to achieve greater fluency, accuracy and confidence in the language as it is spoken and written, and improve their communication skills.
They learn how to improve their use of Afrikaans in a variety of situations, understanding how to read texts and other source materials, and how to extract information, initiate conversations and respond to questions both orally and in writing.
In the Afrikaans class we want everyone to share in the creation and enjoyment of Afrikaans culture, specifically literature, and the development of the language as an intellectual instrument.
One of our AS-topic areas for 2021 is Kos en Drank (Food and Drink)
The Afrikaans language is expressive, rich and unique to South Africa and its food words are as intriguing as the items they describe.
We put compiled a list of our favourite Afrikaanse KOS-words.
Potjie: Direct translation: little pot. A traditional stew slow-cooked in a cast-iron three-legged pot over the coals of a fire.
Slaptjips: Direct translation: floppy chips. Potato fries.
Frikkadelletjies: Little meatballs.
Koeksister: Traditional dough braids that are deep fried and soaked in syrup. Try the classic recipe.
Melktert: A traditional South African recipe for a cinnamon-topped custard tart in a sweet pastry crust.
Naartjie: A sweet and easy-to-peel citrus fruit indigenous to South Africa.
Padkos: Direct translation: road food. Food that you eat while on a journey, usually homemade and containing boiled eggs for comedic effect.
Poffertjies: Fritters or profiteroles. Direct translation: little puffs.
Spookasem: Direct translation: ghost’s breath. Candy floss.
Ystervarkie: Direct translation: little porcupine. Lamingtons (sponge cake dipped in chocolate sauce and rolled in coconut).
When it comes to South African food, Afrikaans has the best descriptive words to make your mouth water! Afrikaans is undeniably and deliciously vivid.
Carmen de Villiers
Afrikaans Department High School