Given that so many pupils struggle with their native tongue, it’s normal to be concerned about the O-Level Chinese exam. However, the key to getting excellent exam scores is studying intelligently and preparing adequately. Here are 9 tips and tricks to do just that.
#1 Determine the grade you intend to get.
Set a goal that is achievable by acknowledging your abilities without underestimating yourself. You want to aspire higher while still setting a comfortable goal, like a Chinese grade somewhat higher than you’ll typically earn. For instance, if your present grade is B3, strive for A2. Once you have an objective in mind, create a strategy for its implementation and work towards it.
#2 You should not take the mid-year paper too lightly!
It is incorrect to think that, since there are two O-Level written exams every year, you have a second opportunity to do better at the end of the year if you did not get optimal results at mid-year. In reality, the Mid-Year Chinese test gives a stronger opportunity for Sec 4 Express and Sec 5NA students to flourish since you may devote your complete attention to preparation. Unlike the year-end exam, which you must also review for all your other subject examinations.
#3 Increase your vocabulary size.
Sort the essential terms you’ve studied in Sections 1 through 4 and the words that regularly appear on your exam sheets that you don’t fully comprehend or commonly write incorrectly. Daily review of these terms will aid in their retention.
#4 Pay attention in class and take notes.
During the critical review stage, the approaches and abilities taught by the instructor are vital. Avoid accumulating learning uncertainties and clarify questions with professors or classmates as soon as possible.
#5 Practise with the previous year’s examinations.
In addition to giving you a sense of the kind of questions that may appear on this year’s test, these exercises, when paired with a review of the methods taught in class, can help you identify the themes and subject areas in which you need to devote more time and effort to improve.
#6 Find materials to enhance your writing skills.
Gain exposure by studying well-written compositions and maintaining a notebook of helpful terminology and sentences, organising them according to the following categories: practical writing, narrative, argumentation, and trending subjects. In addition, keep up on current events by viewing Mandarin newscasts or reading the most recent subjects.
#7 Pace your independent study to prevent burnout.
Ensure you obtain enough sleep to prevent pre-examination stress. After studying for more than two hours, take a break and relax by listening to music, watching television, or eating food. Avoid activities that might deplete your energy, such as playing mobile games or engaging in rigorous exercise. Determine the optimal time of day to revise, which might differ from person to person, such as first thing in the morning when you feel most invigorated or in the evening when it is peaceful.
#8 Modify your mindset and develop confidence.
When taking a test, it is crucial to comprehend the questions, think, and avoid answering them mindlessly. If you make mistakes, you should not become disheartened. Instead, consider it a learning opportunity and rebuild your arsenal by reviewing notes and memorising other articles and terms. Never conclude that it is too late to enhance your performance. Be at ease at the end of the day, knowing that you did your best.
#9 Seek the assistance of competent teachers.
According to the Chinese proverb, “An accomplished teacher produces a good pupil, ” a skilled Mandarin tutor may significantly supplement a student’s study efforts. Unfortunately, while the quality of Chinese tuition centres in Singapore varies, a few teachers specialise in O-Level Chinese language instruction.