Post by: alice343 on April 26, 2020, 11:59:10 am
My name is Alice and I cannot believe that I'm graduating this year!!! Albeit it does seem far away with the current situation. I've recently been spending more time on the ATAR Notes forum; I guess it makes me feel more comforted with a sense of community during this isolation period. I've decided to start this HSC journal in order to somewhat keep me accountable??? I've also created a study gram (let's see how that goes...). Even though half of year 12 has already passed, there's still a lot of growing and learning to go!!
A little bit about me:
- I honestly think I peaked in primary school, ngl. I won dux in year 6 and that was it lol. I was the kid who took piano, swimming and art lessons. Now I am an unmotivated, chronically stressed and anxious HSC student. ;D
- I'm trying to get back into piano. I've neglected it for a few years (oops), but I really want to pick it up after HSC is over.
- I really don't know what to do after HSC. I want to do so many things but I'm possibly the most indecisive person you will ever meet. I'm also probably the most stereotypical Aquarius ever - most if not all of my career goals are humanitarian oriented. I stress and overthink about the future (of humanity) way too much. (Queen of existential crises) ;)
- I loooooveeeee food. Period. (I was running a noodles account but I haven't posted in a while - maybe I should get back into it.
Anywho, onto actual SCHOOL related things. My subjects are:
English Advanced. My prescribed texts: Rosemary Dobson's poetry (Common Mod), King Richard III (Module A), Great Expectations (Module B), Spotty Handed Villainesses and Eulogy for Gough Whitlam (Module C).
Modern History. Topics: USA, Indochina and Apartheid in South Africa.
History Extension: JFK as my case study.
Legal Studies: my options are Family and Indigenous peoples law!
Japanese Beginners
Society and Culture: my electives are Social Inclusion & Exclusion and Belief Systems.
I took Maths Advanced in year 11, but I dropped it at the start of year 12 - possibly the best decision I have ever made (even though it took me a good month or so to decide). I have never been a maths person, probably never will. For some reason, my grade has the most people who have dropped math compared to previous years! (Around 10ish people, compared to 1 last year)
Since I take Society and Culture, 40% of my external HSC mark comes from my Personal Interest Project (more on this in a separate post). For History Extension, I have the History Project which is internally assessed.
I go to a semi-selective school in the south-west of Sydney (SWS represent) - I was in the selective stream, but in year 11 and 12 it doesn't really matter anyway since classes are all mixed. My cohort is generally quite competitive, but nowhere near as competitive as the top 10 selective schools (you know, those schools). My school ranking has been dropping over the past few years - here's to hoping that my cohort will bring it up! Since I'm not too sure what uni course I want to get into, I don't really have a set ATAR goal. Obviously as high as possible. Maybe 95?? I know I'm definitely not doing Med or anything that requires a crazy 99.95 ATAR lol.
Currently, my school has removed an assessment task for all but one of my subjects - so only two assessments + trials! This means I have a bit more time this term to focus on preparing for trial exams - I'm super nervous since I don't think I have very good exam skills (I tend to do way better for hand in type assessments).
I think I'm doing relatively well for my subjects. My estimated ranks are:
English: top 10 at least (but lots of people are tied atm) out of maybe 100 I wanna say??
Legal: 1 out of ~60
Modern: top 3-4?? out of ~60
Society and Culture: 1/15
Jap: top ~4 out of 15
History Extension: there hasn't been an assessment yet - it's only my History Project due in Week 9 of this term, and then Trials!
Well, this has been a lengthy introduction. I'll probably make separate posts for subject specific rants. I'm looking forward to updating this as regularly as I can. Thank you to anyone who took the time to read all of this!
Post by: Justin_L on April 26, 2020, 03:40:16 pm
Welcome to the forum! Glad you could join, this is a great community and the HSC Journals section have been a bit slow lately. Judging by your ranks, it sounds like you're doing great in terms of study. What subjects do you enjoy most? I noticed you seem to be trending towards social aspect of humanities as opposed to the economic.
Post by: alice343 on April 26, 2020, 04:21:59 pm
Hey alice343,
Welcome to the forum! Glad you could join, this is a great community and the HSC Journals section have been a bit slow lately. Judging by your ranks, it sounds like you're doing great in terms of study. What subjects do you enjoy most? I noticed you seem to be trending towards social aspect of humanities as opposed to the economic.
Hi Justin!
Thanks for the welcome, I've been sorta procrastinating work by reading all the HSC journal entries on the forum haha. Here's to maintaining/improving those ranks! At the moment, I definitely enjoy Modern History the most. I enjoyed Legal Studies during the Crime unit, but I wasn't feeling the Human Rights topic as much (probably because it was interrupted by the pandemic). And yes, you are right - I definitely enjoy the social aspect more. In general, I'm more interested in history and languages. In the USA topic for Modern, a lot of the content had to do with economic policy - that was the most frustrating and confusing part! A couple of my friends do Economics and Business Studies, and all the work just seems so boring (no offence to anyone who does them ;D).
Post by: Bri MT on April 27, 2020, 11:39:50 am
Those ranks are more than just "pretty good" imo, particularly in a competitive cohort. I didn't have an ATAR goal for a while (we had a motivational speaker come in and get us to write an ATAR goal down at the start of the year and I wrote 70 but personally I would've been disappointed with that) but after learning about courses and scholarships I hadn't known before that jumped up to a 98 goal. Having a goal can be useful as a motivator for some people but tbh I think the biggest influence it had was making me more stressed rather than helping me achieve things. Like sure, I got it in the end but I think that may have happened anyway if I'd just focused on doing my best.
TLDR; don't worry about not having a goal. You might pick one up or not but either way is fine :)
Post by: alice343 on April 27, 2020, 02:53:54 pm
Hey!
Those ranks are more than just "pretty good" imo, particularly in a competitive cohort. I didn't have an ATAR goal for a while (we had a motivational speaker come in and get us to write an ATAR goal down at the start of the year and I wrote 70 but personally I would've been disappointed with that) but after learning about courses and scholarships I hadn't known before that jumped up to a 98 goal. Having a goal can be useful as a motivator for some people but tbh I think the biggest influence it had was making me more stressed rather than helping me achieve things. Like sure, I got it in the end but I think that may have happened anyway if I'd just focused on doing my best.
TLDR; don't worry about not having a goal. You might pick one up or not but either way is fine :)
Hey Bri MT!
Thank you for the reassurance! I've definitely worried about not having a specific goal, since many people at my school already know what university they're going to, what course they want to get into, what career, etc. But I've realised that it's okay to not have one!
Post by: alice343 on April 27, 2020, 03:01:44 pm
Post by: angewina_naguen on April 27, 2020, 11:16:45 pm
Sooooooo, I might have been trying to write an essay for the Common Module and have only managed an introduction so far... but progress is progress! :D I feel like resources for the Common Module are severely lacking?? I can't seem to find many exemplar essays, let alone exemplars for my prescribed text (shoutout to my school for choosing the most niche text ever). Oh well. I also plan to attempt the Mod C question from the 2019 HSC exam - my teacher encouraged our class to attempt under exam timing, but that doesn't seem very likely given our little exposure to creative and discursive writing.
Hey, alice343!
Any progress is worth celebrating! We do have some Common Module resources in this thread! Super keen to read more of your journal ;D There are also some exemplar essays available in the Notes section but finding exemplars are always tricky when you've got something as niche as Dobson :( You could look at some of the further reading resources thread I compiled here; I did find some materials for Dobson which might inspire you!
I'd also advise against attempting a Mod C question until you feel a little more confident with it. Perhaps attempt the sample paper question that NESA made at a more comfortable pace before diving into the 2019 question under timed conditions :) I'm super keen to read more of your journal over the rest of the year! Keep asking questions and getting involved here in the community :D
Angelina ;D
Post by: alice343 on April 28, 2020, 10:15:20 am
Hey, alice343!
Any progress is worth celebrating! We do have some Common Module resources in this thread! Super keen to read more of your journal ;D There are also some exemplar essays available in the Notes section but finding exemplars are always tricky when you've got something as niche as Dobson :( You could look at some of the further reading resources thread I compiled here; I did find some materials for Dobson which might inspire you!
I'd also advise against attempting a Mod C question until you feel a little more confident with it. Perhaps attempt the sample paper question that NESA made at a more comfortable pace before diving into the 2019 question under timed conditions :) I'm super keen to read more of your journal over the rest of the year! Keep asking questions and getting involved here in the community :D
Angelina ;D
Hi Angelina!
Thank you for all the resources and advice! I will definitely look into those and the sample paper :)
Post by: alice343 on April 29, 2020, 08:53:57 am
Some things I have implemented/will try to implement to alleviate any disorientation with at-home online learning:
- Today I plan to move around my house for each period, so each space is like a different 'classroom'
- I'm wearing my school uniform - this helps A LOT
- I have alarms set for when the school bell would normally ring - each period, recess, lunch etc.
- Different desktops set up on my laptop for each subject/period
- Putting my phone elsewhere during class
- If I'm in a video lecture, keeping my camera on so I'm less tempted to slack and zone off
I'm sure there's more that I can't think of right now at the top of my head, but I'll edit it if I can think of more!
Post by: alice343 on April 29, 2020, 08:55:34 am
Post by: Justin_L on April 29, 2020, 04:35:43 pm
Today is the first day of term 2 - I'm pretty excited to have some structure to this madness, even if it is still online learning. The holidays just flew by - usually I find myself begging for school to come sooner. My teacher for Society and Culture even recorded his lecture and pasted it onto each PowerPoint slide!!! :'( I'm looking forward to starting new topics and modules this term, even though it feels like we haven't quite finished the previous ones since there's still assessments from last term that have been continually postponed.
Some things I have implemented/will try to implement to alleviate any disorientation with at-home online learning:
- Today I plan to move around my house for each period, so each space is like a different 'classroom'.
- I'm wearing my school uniform - this helps A LOT
- I have alarms set for when the school bell would normally ring - each period, recess, lunch etc.
- Different desktops set up on my laptop for each subject/period
- Putting my phone elsewhere during class
- If I'm in a video lecture, keeping my camera on so I'm less tempted to slack and zone off
I'm sure there's more that I can't think of right now at the top of my head, but I'll edit it if I can think of more!
Hey Alice343,
Great tips, and it's amazing you're so far ahead on getting used to online learning. How are you finding it so far? Our school ended with an assessment block last term, so we're all still getting used to it. As for the list function, I tried it and I think it may just be broken. Maybe try using bold, colour, dashes as a replacement for now?
Post by: alice343 on April 29, 2020, 07:08:27 pm
Hey Alice343,
Great tips, and it's amazing you're so far ahead on getting used to online learning. How are you finding it so far? Our school ended with an assessment block last term, so we're all still getting used to it. As for the list function, I tried it and I think it may just be broken. Maybe try using bold, colour, dashes as a replacement for now?
Today was pretty productive day! I guess I've had a bit more time to adjust, since all the assessments at the end of last term were postponed and there wasn't much work. Also, I think the initial phase of me getting distracted has passed - I don't even want to go on social media/my phone anymore (weird, I know, but also yay!!!). And thanks for the listing alternatives :)
Post by: alice343 on April 29, 2020, 07:13:16 pm
Post by: alice343 on May 02, 2020, 01:47:45 pm
I only had school for 2 days this week, since it was week B and we get Friday off as our study day. It's fairly chill so far.
English Adv
We started Module B last term, when quarantine started. Our teacher assigned us work during the holidays, so I feel like we are relatively ahead. I read the text (Great Expectations) during the summer holidays so I feel pretty confident with starting this module. I'm currently re-reading it whilst we're learning about the different critical perspectives, and it really is different from reading the first time. Our assessment for Module A is week 5, so I still have to regularly review myself on it and write practice essays to make sure I'm ready for it (Even though they haven't given us the notification yet). So yea, everything seems to be fine for English!
Modern History
We started Indochina - so far just an introduction. I've been writing my very delayed notes for Power and Authority. Not much else.
Legal Studies
We're doing Family law this term for one of the options. This week was just a recap of Human Rights, and I hope I can finish my notes for it soon.
Society and Culture
Started Belief Systems and Ideologies - our teacher is a bit too lenient on us and keeps extending the date for when he wants our PIP drafts - of course, no one has written one yet (I hope to give in one by week 5).
Extension History
We haven't had a class yet, but I know that I really need to start writing my essay for the History Project. I finally came up with a question that incorporated all the things I wanted to talk about, and I got my teacher's approval!
Japanese
So this is the subject I'm the most ahead in. We've finished the textbook (And we still have two terms left!), so I guess now until Trials, the oral exam and the HSC is all just revision. Japanese is definitely one of the more easier to study subjects since it's a LOTE subject, and it's nice to not have to write essays all the time (ya know, for someone who takes 5 essay subjects, I sure don't write enough essays LOL).
That's my update for the first week! Not much has happened yet (soz for the rather dry update), but it'll ramp up pretty soon. I just need to make sure I stay on top of everything, make solid progress on my PIP and History Project, and start revising for Trials.
Thanks for reading guys! Make sure you're staying safe and connected to your loved ones!!!
Post by: alice343 on May 09, 2020, 08:28:18 pm
This week has been draining, to say the least. I've been keeping on top of my subjects and homework, updating my notes daily, but all the days just seem to blend into each other (please let this end soon).
I've been stressing a lot about my PIP and History Project since I can't seem to motivate myself to work on it. I keep looking at all the progress everyone else has made on the forum and on the Facebook discussion groups, and freaking myself out even more (ahhhhh!!!!!).
I've got an assessment for Modern due on Monday - just an essay, but I've been procrastinating it SO HARD. Get this: we've had this assessment for 11 weeks now. We got the notification in week 5, four weeks prior to the initial date (it was also supposed to be an in-class essay). Then the pandemic happened, so it got postponed, and now it's due week 3 of this term. It amazes me how I can be given such a generous amount of time to complete a 1500-1800 word essay and STILL leave it to the last minute ;D. At the moment, I have a vague semblance of an introduction and some chunks of a body paragraph. I want to try to finish it tomorrow morning, so I can get some peer editing and polish it up. It's also not due until midnight on Monday... but I'll try not to procrastinate that hard lol.
Our English teacher has told us that our assessment notification is coming in week 3, but we don't know if it's an in-class essay like originally planned or an online submission. I'm a bit worried about it since I haven't been revising Mod A and I don't know if I can prepare for an in-class essay!!
Anyways, now I've got all the stress out of me. Thanks for listening :)
Post by: alice343 on May 12, 2020, 08:34:23 pm
Apart from that, I FINALLY did some work on my PIP - I keep changing parts of my topic, but overall it's the same idea. I'm in the midst of my primary research and secondary research, writing as I go. All the exemplars on the State Library website intimidate the heck out of me with their fancy titles and writing, but that's just going to motivate me even harder. I need to start work on my History Project - I thought I could give in a draft by the start of this term, but that doesn't seem to be the case... I've given myself a deadline for two weeks.
Also, we're receiving our English assessment notification tomorrow - going to find out if it's in class or online submission.
I've been finding it hard to prioritise subjects, what to study, when to study, how long to study for, etc. I've tried making study timetables but I never stick to them because they're quite rigid. And whenever an assessment is over, I feel the need to give myself a 'break' AKA not do any work until the next assessment. I know this practice is super detrimental to my studies, so I need to learn to overcome that. I'll try and post about my studies to keep track.
Toodles!
Post by: Justin_L on May 13, 2020, 09:11:39 pm
Great to hear about your progress, it sounds like you're doing well for all your assignments and majors. Do you have any particular tips for peer editing? I'd love to do it more often with my friends but we don't share many subjects (I do mostly humanities and TAS while they do mostly sciences or english)
About study, I've found that doing a massive To-Do list with colored priority codes has worked really well for me, because I can work on what I feel like rather than forcing myself to slog through something. If I'm feeling tired, I can choose some easy tasks while the color coding makes sure that I know of anything really urgent that needs to be done. It's also massively satisfying at the end of each term when you see the massive amount of things you've accomplished.
Hope this helps somewhat, and good luck with your english!
Post by: alice343 on May 13, 2020, 11:36:17 pm
Hey alice343,
Great to hear about your progress, it sounds like you're doing well for all your assignments and majors. Do you have any particular tips for peer editing? I'd love to do it more often with my friends but we don't share many subjects (I do mostly humanities and TAS while they do mostly sciences or english)
About study, I've found that doing a massive To-Do list with colored priority codes has worked really well for me, because I can work on what I feel like rather than forcing myself to slog through something. If I'm feeling tired, I can choose some easy tasks while the color coding makes sure that I know of anything really urgent that needs to be done. It's also massively satisfying at the end of each term when you see the massive amount of things you've accomplished.
Hope this helps somewhat, and good luck with your english!
Hmm, I think that you could still peer edit despite doing different subjects! Since everyone does English of some form, they would know how an English essay works, and essays in humanities aren't too different. Knowing the contents of the essay aren't necessary, since you can look out for the clarity of the actual essay itself. Things such as structure, the way you word things, sentence structure, choice of language, and also grammar and punctuation etc. I think that if someone didn't know about the topic, they would still be able to follow the essay through if it was clear and concise enough. Also, might I suggest that you start a peer editing system in your classes despite not being friends with them? It might be a bit weird at first, but it would only benefit everyone :)
That colour coding system sounds quite useful! I tend to make tons of to do lists but rarely end up completing all the tasks within the time limits that I'm given. When I'm tired, I just end up half-assing something or not doing it at all... thanks for the idea!
So my English assessment is an online submission, and it's basically open book. It shouldn't be too difficult, but it means that teachers are going to mark a bit harder too.
Thanks again for the help!
Post by: alice343 on May 14, 2020, 06:21:25 pm
Speaking of teachers, my Modern History teacher made us cupcakes and brownies!!! She's the sweetest, honestly. We did a Kahoot for class and it was nice to have a friendly competition and us yelling and making jokes.
Next week, we're only attending once - but that might change since everything is up in the air right now. Also, I got to have a proper free period at school today - I had the option to leave early, but I feel like I'm much more productive at home. EEEEEE!!! Yea, that's pretty much how I feel. SUPER happy and I can't stop smiling for some reason.
We got our assessments back for Legal - our teacher already emailed us our results, but IMO the physical copy is much more real. I feel extremely proud for achieving full marks since I pretty much did every MC past paper from 2011 in preparation (so that paid off, I guess). Also got a heavy asf book full of past papers for Legal - I'm so excited to revise now lmao. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Hope you are all staying well and safe!
Post by: alice343 on May 15, 2020, 10:35:54 am
Post by: kauac on May 15, 2020, 08:30:07 pm
Is there anything you are planning to do to celebrate being exam-free?
Post by: alice343 on May 15, 2020, 10:26:31 pm
Wow, 4 exams in 3 days sounds intense! At least you will knock most of your subjects out in one sweep, then.
Is there anything you are planning to do to celebrate being exam-free?
Yea, that's true - I won't have to worry about exams for too long. Not all my friends are as lucky as me to finish early though, so we will just have to wait and see. But there will DEFINITELY be celebrations, let that be known.
Post by: alice343 on May 16, 2020, 09:11:53 pm
I've also decided to make my History Project a challenge - it's due in Week 9, but I really need a draft by week 5 ~. So I've decided to make a 10 day challenge, where I write 250 words of it each day, and by the end of it I should have a draft of my essay. I'm thinking I should do this for the PIP too! Except that would be double the amount - 500 words per day.
Post by: angewina_naguen on May 16, 2020, 09:16:30 pm
So I took a rest day from studying yesterday - I was feeling guilty about it, but I realised that it made me sooo much more productive today. I've ticked off a lot from my to do list - and I've started colour coding them by level of difficulty !!! (Thanks Justin_L)
So glad to hear you did this! Rest days make a HUGE difference on your morale long term. You could even designate a whole day off if you feel like it's okay to (maybe Saturdays or Sundays if you are already busy on them anyway) so you can do your own thing and be guilt-free. Making to-do lists and colour coding things will be great combats against the potential allure of wanting to procrastinate forever. Keen to see how this holds up for you and whether it helps in keeping you productive! ;D
Post by: alice343 on May 17, 2020, 10:46:45 am
17 May 2020
To-do list
- I'm going to work on my PIP: polish up my introduction and continue secondary research (struggling to find a clear cross-cultural component though. I'm hoping I can do a bunch of comprehensive research, and then just integrate the cross-cultural component when I find it)
- Work on writing an essay for Mod A in preparation for my assessment task in Week 5
- Polish up my Mod A 'cheat sheet': sort through the quotes and see which ones are the most versatile in terms of themes
- Work on my Human Rights notes for Legal
- Start notes for History Extension (hella late, I know, but better late than never)
I'm just going to leave it there, for now, don't wanna overshoot and end up not completing my list!
Post by: alice343 on May 18, 2020, 10:09:04 am
Post by: alice343 on May 18, 2020, 12:35:38 pm
Post by: Viktoriak_ on May 18, 2020, 01:37:20 pm
I finished applying for ANU, but I haven't pressed submit because I'm scared for some reason. I desperately want to study International Relations there but moving there might be a bit tricky... anyone else applying to ANU?
Hey! I'm applying to ADFA, which is also in Canberra, so would have to move there too! I'm super excited but it'll definitely be a huge change...Ngl, I haven't actually submitted my application either :-\
How do you feel about moving there to study? Or do you have another uni in mind?
Post by: alice343 on May 18, 2020, 05:26:12 pm
Hey! I'm applying to ADFA, which is also in Canberra, so would have to move there too! I'm super excited but it'll definitely be a huge change...Ngl, I haven't actually submitted my application either :-\
How do you feel about moving there to study? Or do you have another uni in mind?
That's so cool! I haven't heard much about the ADFA, what interests you about it? I love the idea of moving somewhere new/moving out in general, but it's also a bit intimidating and scary since I won't have my family and support system. I'm also looking at USYD and UNSW!
Post by: Viktoriak_ on May 18, 2020, 08:23:45 pm
That's so cool! I haven't heard much about the ADFA, what interests you about it? I love the idea of moving somewhere new/moving out in general, but it's also a bit intimidating and scary since I won't have my family and support system. I'm also looking at USYD and UNSW!
Woah no way! USYD and UNSW are my alternatives too haha.
I agree - moving out will defs be scary + new, but why not throw in some adventure ;D I guess at uni you'd make a lot of close friends, so (hopefully) after a while you would have a pretty good support system there too!
Regarding ADFA, I'm planning to study civil engineering there. The first thing that interested me was that they pay you to study (you essentially get a free degree), which is pretty cool ;). But I looked into it further, and it honestly sounds perfectly suited to me. I love that on top of the usual academic life there's also the military side + fitness aspect. I really want to challenge myself personally and physically, and this is a great way to do that! Also their degrees are from UNSW so the engineering course is the same, which is great. What do you find interesting about international relations?
Post by: alice343 on May 18, 2020, 08:39:01 pm
Woah no way! USYD and UNSW are my alternatives too haha.
I agree - moving out will defs be scary + new, but why not throw in some adventure ;D I guess at uni you'd make a lot of close friends, so (hopefully) after a while you would have a pretty good support system there too!
Regarding ADFA, I'm planning to study civil engineering there. The first thing that interested me was that they pay you to study (you essentially get a free degree), which is pretty cool ;). But I looked into it further, and it honestly sounds perfectly suited to me. I love that on top of the usual academic life there's also the military side + fitness aspect. I really want to challenge myself personally and physically, and this is a great way to do that! Also their degrees are from UNSW so the engineering course is the same, which is great. What do you find interesting about international relations?
Wow!! I didn't know the ADFA was linked with UNSW! That sounds superrrr cool (no student debt too). The physical/military aspect is definitely a huge bonus - it's good to challenge yourself.
As for international relations, I really want to understand the world and global issues better. I've always loved history, law and politics so I think it'd be a good combination of them! And I have an aspiration of working for the UN, or some kind of international organisation. I also want to study it with Environment and Sustainability, because I really care about providing future generations with a clean and safe Earth! I feel like I could really make a difference by studying IR.
Post by: Viktoriak_ on May 18, 2020, 08:50:37 pm
Wow!! I didn't know the ADFA was linked with UNSW! That sounds superrrr cool (no student debt too). The physical/military aspect is definitely a huge bonus - it's good to challenge yourself.Yeah I'm keen ;D
Quote
As for international relations, I really want to understand the world and global issues better. I've always loved history, law and politics so I think it'd be a good combination of them! And I have an aspiration of working for the UN, or some kind of international organisation. I also want to study it with Environment and Sustainability, because I really care about providing future generations with a clean and safe Earth!Wow that sounds amazing, super cool you could be working for the UN one day !
Definitely sounds like it would suit your subjects well too.
Quote
I feel like I could really make a difference by studying IR.That's awesome, I think its super important in a job/career to be able to make an impact, definitely would be empowering and meaningful work!
Post by: alice343 on May 18, 2020, 09:10:38 pm
Yeah I'm keen ;D
Wow that sounds amazing, super cool you could be working for the UN one day !
Definitely sounds like it would suit your subjects well too.
That's awesome, I think its super important in a job/career to be able to make an impact, definitely would be empowering and meaningful work!
Yep, I'm super excited about it!!! How about you? Do you have any particular aspirations?
Post by: alice343 on May 20, 2020, 07:26:12 pm
One week left to go until my English assessment - no one really knows what's happening, since it was online but since we're going back to school next week, it might change. Either way, I've been neglecting English really badly, and our teacher is giving us until tomorrow afternoon to submit practice essays! I'm planning to write an essay tonight, and then edit another one that I have half written - hopefully I can get it done before tomorrow.
Post by: Justin_L on May 20, 2020, 08:55:25 pm
I had my second day of actual school today! It was nice to see everyone, but tbh I wouldn't mind staying home a bit longer hehe.
One week left to go until my English assessment - no one really knows what's happening, since it was online but since we're going back to school next week, it might change. Either way, I've been neglecting English really badly, and our teacher is giving us until tomorrow afternoon to submit practice essays! I'm planning to write an essay tonight, and then edit another one that I have half written - hopefully I can get it done before tomorrow.
Wow, that sounds pretty hectic! Good luck with your essays, you're really lucky that your teacher is so open to accepting practice responses!
I finished applying for ANU, but I haven't pressed submit because I'm scared for some reason. I desperately want to study International Relations there but moving there might be a bit tricky... anyone else applying to ANU?
That's so cool! I'm applying to ANU as well, only for international security. TBH, the fact that it's interstate is one of the reasons I want to study there, since I want to get out of Sydney for a while. Accommodation was super confusing, but the application was otherwise really streamlined.
What sort of International Relations role do you want to do in the future? Diplomat, Politician, etc? It definitely seems like a field with a lot of potential.
Post by: alice343 on May 21, 2020, 08:28:33 pm
Wow, that sounds pretty hectic! Good luck with your essays, you're really lucky that your teacher is so open to accepting practice responses!
That's so cool! I'm applying to ANU as well, only for international security. TBH, the fact that it's interstate is one of the reasons I want to study there, since I want to get out of Sydney for a while. Accommodation was super confusing, but the application was otherwise really streamlined.
What sort of International Relations role do you want to do in the future? Diplomat, Politician, etc? It definitely seems like a field with a lot of potential.
Thanks! I've given in my essays, phew.
What exactly does International Security entail? The first and only time I've heard of it was when I came across it on the ANU website. Also, all of the 'international' courses are confusing me - like at USYD, they offer International and Global Studies, as well as International Relations. AND ACCOMMODATION WAS THE WORST PART OF THE APPLICATION. I hope I didn't mess up anything hehe. I also signed up for the scholarships - writing those personal statements was also pretty hard ngl.
I'm not too sure what role I'd like to work in, but diplomat sounds alright!
Post by: Justin_L on May 22, 2020, 11:49:02 am
TBH I don't know what the international means either and holy heck I completely agree, accommodation was like ? ? ? It doesn't make sense why they would ask us that before even giving an offer? I'm keeping my fingers crossed as well that it'll all work out.
Best of luck for your application, let us know how it goes!
Post by: alice343 on May 22, 2020, 12:53:43 pm
There's a fair bit of overlap between the two courses but from my understanding, International Security is a much more specialized course which is more case studies based, whereas International Relations is much more theoretical and about the politics side of things. You can take a look at the specific units to get a better idea of what each course is about, since you can "customize" the course to a pretty large degree.
TBH I don't know what the international means either and holy heck I completely agree, accommodation was like ? ? ? It doesn't make sense why they would ask us that before even giving an offer? I'm keeping my fingers crossed as well that it'll all work out.
Best of luck for your application, let us know how it goes!
Good luck to you too! Just read an email from ANU that says accommodation deposits need to be settled by September 7... that sounds scarily soon :-\
All the different majors and minors and electives and units and whatnot confuse me so much lol. Hopefully, it'll make more sense to me soon.
Post by: alice343 on May 23, 2020, 06:33:20 pm
English assessment has been moved to our senior day! (Friday is off for seniors fortnightly, alternating between Year 11 and 12). This means I have a little extra time to prepare - I've been working on a detailed evidence bank, and it looks so good that it actually makes me want to study.
I'm working on an essay for S&C. Sometimes I really dread studying for this subject, since everything is so vague. Essays in particular!!!
This week I felt pretty unmotivated. Even though I kept on top of school work, I don't think I was putting my all into it. Next week I will definitely be more mindful of my producitivty, and how I can improve it.
ATTACHED: a screenshot of my evidence table because I think it looks so pretty!! (It's orange because of Screen Shader - read below)
Post by: alice343 on May 23, 2020, 06:34:02 pm
ALSO!!! I just discovered the beauty of Chrome extensions. I want to share them with you guys because THEY'RE SO REVOLUTIONARY.
- OneTab: it will collect all of your tabs into one page. It removes clutter and saves you from opening and closing tabs. This is great if you always have 100s of tabs open, or if you're doing a lot of research. WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
EDIT: just realised that this is basically the tab feature that exists on Microsoft Edge lol
- Email Tracking for Gmail: when I found out this existed, I was absolutely baffled. It lowkey sounds like it's infringing on people's privacy, but I guess not since it still exists! It allows for you to see when someone has opened your email - some of my teachers are notorious for not responding to emails, so if you can see if they've chosen to open it and not respond, you can send a follow up email.
- Google Dictionary: highlight any word on a page, press the icon and it'll define it!
- Google Translate: same kinda deal, except it'll translate it for you!
- Weava Highlighter: enables you to highlight text on any page! You can also add notes to the text you highlighted, and it automatically saves so you don't need to worry about it disappearing if you close the page!
- Cite This For Me: even though this is a website, this extension makes it so much more easier. Log in with your account, click the icon on the page you want to reference, boom. You can choose to copy it or add it to your account's bibliography.
- Todoist: a to do list on your Chrome browser! I know there's TONS of other ways you could store your to do lists (phone, book, sticky notes etc.). I like to use it for very short term tasks, instead of having to open Sticky Notes on my laptop because I use Chrome for everything.
HONOURABLE MENTIONS:
- Grammarly: if you haven't already downloaded it, download it now.
- Dark Reader: changes every page to dark mode! It helps when you're working at night and don't want to strain your eyes.
- Screen Shader: also allows you to change the colour of your page, so you don't strain your eyes.
- Volume Master: this isn't really productivity-related, but it boosts your volume by up to 600% (I KNOW).
- Any type of ad blocker: it's 2020, what are you doing if you don't have this?
- Any site blocker: if you really want to focus, block all of your Netflix, Instagram, Youtube, etc. I like using Block Site, since it has a Work Mode: you can set a time period for when these websites can be blocked.
- Any type of screen capture or record: I only use this to capture, I don't really use the video features. You can annotate and record your own voice or face on it too!!! (Great for tutorials and the like.)
- Momentum: not really productivity-related, but quite lovely and inspiring. Every day, a beautiful picture of scenery will show as the background, along with an inspiring and motivational quote on a new tab!
Post by: alice343 on May 25, 2020, 05:31:18 pm
Post by: alice343 on May 28, 2020, 04:53:23 pm
Week 5, Term 2 Update
This week is finally over woohoo!!! A short week since we have our senior day tomorrow, but always draining. This week wasn't too bad - I feel like it just flew by and I didn't really achieve anything. Subject wise, we didn't do much in class either. We did start Mod B essay writing, which I feel is like is way too early since we've only spent 5 weeks on Great Expectations - but that's how I felt when we started Mod A essays and it turned out fine.
I have an English assessment tomorrow on my senior day - we have two whole hours to complete an essay. I have all my notes and resources organised so I can easily refer to them as I'm writing. I feel stressed but not stressed at the same time? Like I know the essay question won't be extremely difficult, and we've practised Mod A essay writing so much I feel like it won't be too difficult to get a good result. However, everyone has had a lot of time to prepare for this task so everyone is on the same level playing field, meaning I really need to distinguish myself amongst everyone else.
I'm so excited to be done with the English assessment since I won't have another one until my History Project in week 9. This means I have a full three weeks to work on my major works and revision. My S&C teacher is expecting a PIP draft by week 8, and I will aim to submit one by the end of week 6. Everything is moving so fast now and I can't comprehend it - it'll be the term 2 holidays so soon, and trials would only be a few weeks after!
Thanks for reading, good luck for your studies, whoever is reading this!
Post by: katie,rinos on May 28, 2020, 05:07:20 pm
Post by: alice343 on May 29, 2020, 01:16:10 pm
Good luck for your English assessment tomorrow! Hope it goes well!! :D
Thank you!!! I just submitted my essay in, I'm feeling pretty confident about it since I had already written an essay to a similar question.
Post by: alice343 on June 01, 2020, 06:25:57 pm
I was just looking at my study wall, which is absolutely COVERED in post-it notes - I had feedback for each subject and how to improve, and I realised that I actually have improved in many ways since Year 11! In both small and big ways - for example, during prelim course, I wasn't as confident in my source analysis and integration in essays. With the latest assessment, I made sure to make an in-depth analysis of each source to support my arguments, which my teacher commended! This is pretty heartening to realise that improvements can be made, both small and big, in short amounts of time!
Post by: angewina_naguen on June 01, 2020, 06:46:39 pm
Got my results back for my Modern assessment! I'm pretty content with what I received (92%) and I completely agree with the feedback that my teacher gave me.
I was just looking at my study wall, which is absolutely COVERED in post-it notes - I had feedback for each subject and how to improve, and I realised that I actually have improved in many ways since Year 11! In both small and big ways - for example, during prelim course, I wasn't as confident in my source analysis and integration in essays. With the latest assessment, I made sure to make an in-depth analysis of each source to support my arguments, which my teacher commended! This is pretty heartening to realise that improvements can be made, both small and big, in short amounts of time!
I love the post-it-notes idea as well; it's certainly paid off! :D Congratulations on your results for the assessment ;D
Post by: alice343 on June 05, 2020, 10:41:07 pm
Week 6, Term 2 Update
This has been an exhausting week. Thank goodness for the long weekend! I've made some small but decent progress on my major works. I also FINALLY started sticking to a study timetable - I have been severely underestimating the time I allocate for studying. I'll start studying and be barely done with anything, and two hours have passed!
I also finally found out my rankings from my school report!! I'm pretty happy with them, so let's hope that I can maintain/improve them with my last assessments and Trials.
English Adv
- We wrote an essay on the 2019 HSC question for Mod B and did a peer editing activity with another class. I thought it was a bit weird writing an essay so early, but I think I will understand the text better as I write, strangely enough.
- Ranked 4th for Eng woohoo!!!
Modern History
- Continuing with the content on Indochina. Our teacher wants to finish the topic by Week 8 - I have many doubts on this since we don't seem to be close to be finishing anytime soon :///
- Ranked 3rd
- I'm so happy after realising that I only have to write two proper essays in the HSC; the Core Study and the last module are both short responses/mini essays. However, I also realised that I haven't been writing enough practise essays - I need to finish writing the essay that I never gave in from like a term ago lol
Legal Studies
- We looked at how to approach essay question for Family Law; not as intimidating as I thought, but again, I need to practise writing essays for Crime
- Rank: 1
Japanese
- We've finished the content, so in class, we've been doing all types of revision. Today we did Kahoot, which was super fun!
- Rank: 3
S&C
- So apparently we've finished our last topic?? We've been going over Belief Systems again, but I feel like our class didn't fully go over it...
- Rank: 1
- Also came to the realisation that I have no idea how to write a good S&C essay despite my teacher giving me good marks: big YIKES. I need to stop neglecting SAC. It's easy to toss it aside as an 'easy' subject, which may be true in some aspects - it's definitely not as mentally strenuous as Modern History, but if I continue to be complacent, I won't be able to maintain my rank.
- I NEED TO FINISH MY PIP DRAFT EEEEEE!!!! why did I leave it until now :((
Extension History
- We're looking at more essays for our case study, JFK. I'm stressing because I have the History Project due in less than 3 weeks and I still haven't written a draft. And this on top of the PIP draft is driving me nuts - basically two PIPs in two weeks, if you count all the referencing, footnotes, annotations etc.
- Rank: N/A
That's the current status of my subjects. Approaching the end of the term, where we have to start writing essays and applying our knowledge. I know the end of the term is going to be absolutely hectic, so I'm trying to focus on getting my major works and notes in line before the madness.
Thanks for reading!
Post by: Fluffysama_ on June 09, 2020, 09:04:52 pm
Post by: alice343 on June 09, 2020, 09:12:46 pm
wow alice, y'all hsc journal looking so fire i love it
oh no someone from school has found me
Post by: Viktoriak_ on June 11, 2020, 08:37:07 pm
Week 6, Term 2 Update
This has been an exhausting week. Thank goodness for the long weekend! I've made some small but decent progress on my major works. I also FINALLY started sticking to a study timetable - I have been severely underestimating the time I allocate for studying. I'll start studying and be barely done with anything, and two hours have passed!
I also finally found out my rankings from my school report!! I'm pretty happy with them, so let's hope that I can maintain/improve them with my last assessments and Trials.
English Adv
- We wrote an essay on the 2019 HSC question for Mod B and did a peer editing activity with another class. I thought it was a bit weird writing an essay so early, but I think I will understand the text better as I write, strangely enough.
- Ranked 4th for Eng woohoo!!!
Modern History
- Continuing with the content on Indochina. Our teacher wants to finish the topic by Week 8 - I have many doubts on this since we don't seem to be close to be finishing anytime soon :///
- Ranked 3rd
- I'm so happy after realising that I only have to write two proper essays in the HSC; the Core Study and the last module are both short responses/mini essays. However, I also realised that I haven't been writing enough practise essays - I need to finish writing the essay that I never gave in from like a term ago lol
Legal Studies
- We looked at how to approach essay question for Family Law; not as intimidating as I thought, but again, I need to practise writing essays for Crime
- Rank: 1
Japanese
- We've finished the content, so in class, we've been doing all types of revision. Today we did Kahoot, which was super fun!
- Rank: 3
S&C
- So apparently we've finished our last topic?? We've been going over Belief Systems again, but I feel like our class didn't fully go over it...
- Rank: 1
- Also came to the realisation that I have no idea how to write a good S&C essay despite my teacher giving me good marks: big YIKES. I need to stop neglecting SAC. It's easy to toss it aside as an 'easy' subject, which may be true in some aspects - it's definitely not as mentally strenuous as Modern History, but if I continue to be complacent, I won't be able to maintain my rank.
- I NEED TO FINISH MY PIP DRAFT EEEEEE!!!! why did I leave it until now :((
Extension History
- We're looking at more essays for our case study, JFK. I'm stressing because I have the History Project due in less than 3 weeks and I still haven't written a draft. And this on top of the PIP draft is driving me nuts - basically two PIPs in two weeks, if you count all the referencing, footnotes, annotations etc.
- Rank: N/A
That's the current status of my subjects. Approaching the end of the term, where we have to start writing essays and applying our knowledge. I know the end of the term is going to be absolutely hectic, so I'm trying to focus on getting my major works and notes in line before the madness.
Thanks for reading!
Wow congrats on your rankings, that's awesome!
Post by: Fluffysama_ on June 12, 2020, 06:59:58 am
Post by: alice343 on June 12, 2020, 09:58:44 am
Post by: alice343 on June 12, 2020, 11:17:25 am
Week 7, Term 2 Update
Hello everyoneeeee!
This week flew by - it was only 3 days after all. Nothing major happened this week, but I know I'm getting my assessment notifications next week!
English Advanced
- I have a Mod B essay due today; I've finished writing it but I just need to edit it and maybe swap out some evidence
- We also got a Mod B/Mod C task: I always thought it was unfair that creative writing is tested in timed conditions. It just doesn't make sense either how it's the same weighting as the other modules.
- I don't feel confident with Mod B AT ALL but our teacher says we've finished the module :000
- Also our teacher said that we should be practising writing under timed conditions... which I haven't done at all... guess it's time to start doing that
- Sh*t scared for Mod C - all we've done is a discursive ??!?!?! and it's getting assessed in Trials :///
Modern History
- We're a few syllabus dot points away from finishing Indochina. I didn't think I'd enjoy this topic as much as USA, but I'm really liking it so far!
Legal Studies
- We started looking at contemporary issues of family law, which means we're basically finished with the topic. I'm working on my first family law essay!
- Getting an assessment notification next week!
Society and Culture
- Revising the Belief Systems and Ideologies topic
- I'm working on my PIP draft; I know it's going to be tight (considering the fact that I haven't even done primary research yet) but I know I can do it
Japanese
- I've been ramping up my study for Japanese lately, especially with writing. My friends and I have decided to start keeping a daily Japanese diary to practise our writing skills!
- I want to work on my speaking skills; we have an online speaking session tomorrow!
Extension History
- Our teacher said he might extend the due date for our History Project (if he does I would be so grateful holy heck)
- A lot of reading, not much writing for my essay so far :///
Hope everyone is staying healthy and maintaining healthy relations! Don't get too bogged down with studying.
Thanks for reading, Alice. :)
Post by: alice343 on June 12, 2020, 04:47:29 pm
Post by: alice343 on June 14, 2020, 12:27:28 am
Post by: Fluffysama_ on June 15, 2020, 05:05:46 pm
Omg guys!!! Just a random update on my History Project - I gained access to a few resources that I know will be super valuable and useful for my essay. I cannot express how happy I am - EEEEEEEE!!!!!! I'm a bit miffed that now I only have a week to read them (they're full novel-length books) + all the other readings I have, but what can I do.
so happy to hear !!
Post by: alice343 on June 18, 2020, 09:26:34 pm
- Received assessment tasks for Modern and Legal
- Legal is a hand in essay, so not to stressed about that; also, I just received the notification today and I actually worked on it today lol - I don't think I've ever started on an assessment this early before
- Modern is an in class topic test with one seen question and three unseen questions!
- The due date for History Extension has been moved to the first day of next term, so I am extremely relieved except now this means I might procrastinate...
- I'm gonna cram this weekend to try and finish a PIP draft for next week
- Kinda getting overwhelmed at random times during the day, then becoming complacent, only to repeat this cycle (when will this madness end)
- Just realised today that we don't have much of Year 12 left :( Our SAC teacher said how much he was going to miss us and I almost felt like crying !! Time is gonna fly by so fast after Trials.
Good luck on whatever you've been busy with recently, and thanks for reading :)
Post by: alice343 on June 22, 2020, 05:58:47 pm
Good news: I FINALLY sent out my questionnaire for my PIP this weekend. Honestly, I don't even know if my questionnaire is asking the right questions, but I was just relieved to have something done for my primary research. Besides the questionnaire, I'm preparing a series of interview questions that I will ask several Gen Z Chinese nationals for my cross-cultural component. I'm also going to conduct a content analysis of certain memes, and an email interview with an academic!
I'm pretty disappointed in myself since I haven't given a draft of my History Project to my teacher yet - I don't want to leave it until the holidays but kinda getting swamped on all sides atm.
Hope your Monday was an amazing (but chilly) day! :)
Post by: alice343 on June 24, 2020, 08:34:39 pm
I have accumulated about 40 responses for my questionnaire, which my teacher said was more than enough. I have started analysing the results, and I have also conducted two interviews. I also have set one up for tomorrow. The answers were super in-depth, definitely more insightful answers than I was expecting! I've made solid progress on my secondary research - not sure why I've been procrastinating it since it's not that much work. I really want to finish a semi-draft on Friday to give into my teacher. After I get that edited, I can fiddle with all the formatting and title pages and whatnot. My teacher said you could even decorate your PIP with text in the margins! I'm more excited about making it look pretty than actually writing it lmao.
Since I've been working on my PIP all week so far, I have neglected my History Project. However, I know what I am going to write about so it shouldn't be too hard.
Hope your Wednesday was amazing! If not, I hope your tomorrow is!
Post by: Justin_L on June 24, 2020, 09:52:15 pm
Great to hear your PIP is going well! Sounds like you've got some great data and research going.
For History Extension, I would definitely recommend starting now, even if you've got the holidays. Even if it's an absolutely trash draft, start now because there are problems that you won't see until you start writing. I made the mistake of thinking a similar thing, that I had three case studies and that I could easily base my essay around those. I started writing 2-3 weeks ago and I've had to go through 3 drafts in that time because I had to keep changing around my central argument to make it both historiographical and to continually write more of my own voice in over that of my historians/case studies. But then again, everyone's project is different and my advice might not be relevant at all to you.
Best of luck with your PIP and History Extension!
Post by: alice343 on June 25, 2020, 08:01:46 pm
I swear I've been working on it :DDDDDDD
I'll do it... tomorrow!
Post by: alice343 on June 25, 2020, 08:31:18 pm
Week 9, Term 2
I was going to say that this week flew by... but then I realised that I've been saying that about every week this term lol. Nonetheless, IT FLEW BY. The BIG update of the week: WE GOT OUR TRIALS TIMETABLES! I'm a bit shook that we got it this early, before this term even ended. I remember the Year 12s last year only got their timetable a week before (rip for them am I right). For some reason, they've decided to move up trials by one week this year (BOOOOOO). I only have one double up, but even then I'm fine with it since I have a double up for HSC anyways, so in a way, it'll be practice for managing double exams lmao.
And now, subject updates!
History Extension
- I AM ABSOLUTELY EFFED FOR THIS SUBJECT ! ! ! 1! 1!
- It's not even my History Project I'm worried about... it's Trials. So... we haven't finished our case study, our teacher is going away for a while, there's only three lessons next term and then trials... someone tell me how this will be okay because I can't think of any way
- I love our class so much tho hehe it's so nice having a small class
Modern History
- We have our assessment on Monday! It's soooo soon but I don't feel ready at all :// I need to spend this weekend studying for the test
- Idk why but whenever I don't have the time to study, I think about when I do have the time to study and have a whole ass plan ready, but when it ACTUALLY comes to studying, I have no clue what to do ;;((
Legal Studies
- We're finishing up the contemporary issues for Family Law, so basically done with the syllabus.
- Hand in essay due next Friday: hopefully after my Modern assessment, I can just smash it out
Society and Culture
- I've just been working on my PIP for this week. I'm falling in love with my PIP the more I work on it!!!
- I can't wait until my PIP is finally finished. It's going to be SO MAGNIFICENT. MY BABY OF 9 MONTHS !!!
English
- We've been doing some Mod C work as well as Common Mod revision. I really enjoy both reading and writing in Mod C, but I will always despise how they test us on it. If it was weighted less, or perhaps they made the HSC Mod C component a hand in, I would enjoy it so much more.
Japanese
- We've just been doing practice in class since there's no more content. It's absolutely crazy how we finished the content only halfway through year 12.
- I still have no clue what's happening for the HSC oral exams??? Our teacher said he would update us but he hasn't...
I'm pretty sure everyone's end of term is pretty hectic right now, so good luck! Except for some people who have literally had no assessments for the last half of this term (I envy them SO MUCH).
Thanks for reading,
Alice
Post by: Viktoriak_ on June 26, 2020, 03:44:05 pm
Quote
Idk why but whenever I don't have the time to study, I think about when I do have the time to study and have a whole ass plan ready, but when it ACTUALLY comes to studying, I have no clue what to do ;;((I relate to this on another level!! When there's no time or I'm really busy, I get so excited for when I'll be able to study for hours and tick things off - then when that time comes around it's almost anticlimactic :P
On the other hand, school seems pretty hectic for you atm! Tbh trials are around the corner, so what did we expect ahh. Good luck with all your remaining assessments!
Quote
Except for some people who have literally had no assessments for the last half of this term (I envy them SO MUCH).hehe that's meee ;D
Post by: alice343 on June 26, 2020, 06:28:42 pm
I relate to this on another level!! When there's no time or I'm really busy, I get so excited for when I'll be able to study for hours and tick things off - then when that time comes around it's almost anticlimactic :P
On the other hand, school seems pretty hectic for you atm! Tbh trials are around the corner, so what did we expect ahh. Good luck with all your remaining assessments!
hehe that's meee ;D
Riiiighttt1!!!! I full procrastinate by making more aesthetic study schedules that I never stick to! Thanks, good luck to you too!
Post by: alice343 on June 26, 2020, 06:32:32 pm
Post by: alice343 on July 01, 2020, 05:16:02 pm
I've recently been practising this super unhealthy habit of staying up late to finish work but not end up doing anything, and then just waking up tired every day. I would much rather sleep earlier and wake up earlier, but it's just so cold and dark before 7am. Yesterday I set an alarm for 5:50 but I just couldn't do it lol. How do morning people operate?? It's truly fascinating.
Post by: angewina_naguen on July 02, 2020, 12:15:36 am
ALSO. My PIP. Having struggles analysing my primary research, but once I get that done, that's the hardest part done. Also, footnoting is such a pain but it looks so professional and academic !!
I can relate so hard to this! I found the primary research the trickiest part of my PIP but you'll feel very relieved once you finish going through it all and incorporating it in your major work.
I also find footnoting such a satisfying thing to do ;D You'll thank yourself at the end of this for doing the citations as you go, trust me. I didn't do mine until two nights before my draft was due and it took me, I kid you not, four hours. In uni, I do all my referencing simultaneously with my assignments and while it does feel tedious, you will have an amazing looking piece of writing at the end of it!
Good luck for your remaining assessment and make sure to take things easy! The term's almost over and you can have a good break this weekend :)
Post by: alice343 on July 02, 2020, 04:52:31 pm
I can relate so hard to this! I found the primary research the trickiest part of my PIP but you'll feel very relieved once you finish going through it all and incorporating it in your major work.
I also find footnoting such a satisfying thing to do ;D You'll thank yourself at the end of this for doing the citations as you go, trust me. I didn't do mine until two nights before my draft was due and it took me, I kid you not, four hours. In uni, I do all my referencing simultaneously with my assignments and while it does feel tedious, you will have an amazing looking piece of writing at the end of it!
Good luck for your remaining assessment and make sure to take things easy! The term's almost over and you can have a good break this weekend :)
Thank you so much! Yea I've been trying to annotate every source as I go to avoid that kind of situation. Planning to go out on Saturday and get my nails done yay!
Post by: alice343 on July 03, 2020, 05:30:46 pm
Seriously, this term really has been the most confusing, stressful mess ever. I don't know why I had the urge to rewrite my Legal essay the night before, but I'm glad I did. It's fair to say that I have not gotten much sleep over the past few weeks... planning to sleep in so hecking hard on Sunday.
I have a Trials study timetable ready to go, but it still doesn't feel real to meeeee. Gonna take this weekend off and start studying on Monday. I feel the urge to take the whole first week off, but I know I can definitely NOT take that much time off. I'm restricting myself to going out only 3 times during these holidays. No exceptions hehe.
Also made a bet with my friend who hasn't picked a topic for her PIP (I know.). She says she can finish it by Sunday midnight. I call BS, but who knows, she might surprise me.
Post by: Justin_L on July 03, 2020, 05:48:13 pm
THE WORST TERM OF MY LIFE IS OFFICIALLY OVER !!!
Seriously, this term really has been the most confusing, stressful mess ever. I don't know why I had the urge to rewrite my Legal essay the night before, but I'm glad I did. It's fair to say that I have not gotten much sleep over the past few weeks... planning to sleep in so hecking hard on Sunday.
That's an absolute mood, this term really has been awful even by HSC standards
I have a Trials study timetable ready to go, but it still doesn't feel to meeeee. Gonna take this weekend off and start studying on Monday. I feel the urge to take the whole first week off, but I know I can definitely NOT take that much time off. I'm restricting myself to going out only 3 times during these holidays. No exceptions hehe.
Also made a bet with my friend who hasn't picked a topic for her PIP (I know.). She says she can finish it by Sunday midnight. I call BS, but who knows, she might surprise me.
Nice! Sounds like you've got a solid plan. I think take as much time as you can afford, since burning out right before trials is never a good thing. Good luck with your History and PIP especially, I'm sure you'll do great!
Post by: alice343 on July 06, 2020, 10:13:15 pm
For now, just trying to get all my notes in line, whilst revising key content before practising my exam skills. I'm planning to finish all my notes this week, and then start doing open book exams next week. Also, trying to muster some more motivation for my major works. Turns out last year's Year 12 submitted their History Project in September, after Trials!! I really hope my teacher doesn't do this since I'll just waste all the extra time anyways. No luck in the due date for the PIP being extended, lol. All I'm hoping for is a draft like by the end of this week. Where has all my motivation goneeeeee !!!!
Also, if anyone has any tips for studying for Trials, I'd love to hear it!
Post by: alice343 on July 11, 2020, 12:00:58 pm
Okay so... I might have been a little too ambitious with my Trials prep. I wanted to have finished all my notes by the end of this week, (I have four topics to go) but I don't think that's going to happen anytime soon! Luckily I have notes finished for the subjects that have exams in the first few days of Trials. I'm getting a little overwhelmed with everything, as it kinda just hit me that the exams will literally replicate the HSC. I haven't really done any exam practice this whole year besides for assessments so this is kinda really scary!!! Here's a review for each subject atm:
English
- Trials is only assessing Module B and C; PHEW. I can't imagine what it would be like, having to study for Common Mod and Mod A as well.
- Discursives are SO fun to write. I've only written two but I really enjoyed writing both of them.
- Reflections, too. Feels a bit narcissistic analysing my own work, but it comes way more naturally than analysing in normal essays since I'm writing about my own writing, so I know what I'm talking about.
- Freaked out for Mod B!!! I just received feedback for my first Mod B essay, and have a second essay due on Monday
Modern History
- Our school is testing us on the last topic, Apartheid as well; even though we haven't started it in class lmao.
- My weakest topic is probably Power and Authority. I have definitely not been revising it, and source analysis is my absolute weakness.
Legal Studies
- Also testing us on a topic we haven't done!! Even though our teacher has been hinting very heavily what the essay will be on, it doesn't really help when we have no knowledge of the topic.
Society and Culture
- I'm not too worried for S&C, especially since it's my last exam and I'll have more time to focus on it.
- Gotta get my PIP in yikes :-\
Japanese
- I'm not too worried about Japanese; we've been doing timed papers and they're all relatively easy. For some reason, the HSC papers are easier than our internal assessments??!
- Need to focus on speaking the most!!
Extension History
- Idek what's going on in Extension anymore TBH... still haven't attempted an essay !!! :///
- I have a very strong feeling that our teacher is going to extend the due date for the History Project... I know I can smash the essay out if I really just focus on it intensely for a few days but I made my Trials study timetable so packed that I feel guilty for not following it...
Also, just identified some more major flaws in my Trials study timetable. I completely forgot that I still have school after these holidays!!! Besides the History Project, there aren't any assessments (I do have to focus on my PIP though) but we still have to go to school ew. I guess those two weeks at school will be spent on madly rushing us through the last topics for Modern and Legal :// I need to reorganise my study plans so I have more breaks too. I haven't been giving myself any breaks and it's really taken a toll on me.
Another thing! I just realised that music distracts me. You would think that I would have realised this ages ago, but no. Even instrumental music makes me less productive, and I realised I quite enjoy silence when studying.
Anyways, on a brighter note. I went out last night for probably the first time in months. It felt so good, except I'm a little concerned now that COVID-19 cases have been on the rise. Just when I thought it was getting better :( I hope everyone is staying safe!
Post by: alice343 on July 15, 2020, 11:21:38 pm
Okay, so the stress and panic didn't really hit me until last night/today. WHERE HAS ALL THE TIME GONE. I feel SO underprepared, like nothing I do will help me. From tomorrow (Thursday) I will have two weeks until my English exam (WTF). I haven't done any timed practice responses and I am freaking out like CRAZYYYY but I keep putting everything off because I just keep stressing about everything and how my PIP is unfinished and I am scared to finish it.
But also just had a relieving as heck rant to my wonderful friend (Fluffysama_ here on the forum), and realised that I might be being a little harsh on myself??? (Or maybe I'm not harsh enough and I'm just making excuses for myself) :-\ :-\
ANYWAYS. I'm going to try make sure that I write down everything I accomplish at the end of the day so I can feel better about myself.
Today I:
- Attended the Modern History ATAR Notes lecture. Maddy was super helpful and wonderful in providing tips for exam preparation, studying and entertainment!
- Upon realising during the lecture that detail tables were extremely useful, I started one for Power and Authority
- I did the listening section of the 2012 HSC Japanese exam under exam conditions and marked myself using the sample answers and marking guidelines (twas not as good as I hoped - luckily I have a bit more time until the Japanese exam); this took up quite a bit of time
- After I reviewed my flashcards for Japanese; since there was A LOT + some new vocab, this took me a while to get through, esp. since I have been neglecting vocab and studying for Japanese in general
- I made an updated grammar checklist for Japanese so I can be more mindful of the grammar points I'm incorporating in my speaking and writing
- I typed up some answers to speaking prompts for Japanese (for easier future reference)
- Also doing a Mod C persuasive atm! Hope to finish tonight since I'm doing it semi-timed (planning it first then writing it open book, but timed). We haven't gone through it in class but my teacher said it's like discursive but more rhetorical devices.
Wow, I just realised that I actually have done SOMETHING today. I haven't been writing down everything that I get done other than the things on my to-do list (which I never complete), so when I look at my to-do lists it seems like I haven't done anything. This is something I working to improve.
Also, RESIN ART IS the COOLEST. I've been seeing it all over Instagram and everything looks so glossy and shiny and smooth... it almost looks edible sometimes LOL. I wanna get into it whenever I have some more free time (likely not until post-Trials...)
Yepppp that's my weird semi-rant over. I go through these weird cycles where I overthink and stress about everything possible, then I get over it and become apathetic and indifferent to everything. Then repeat.
TLDR: I went through a stress-induced panicked frenzy but now I am not. Just gonna face the fact that Trials is coming up and I need to be realistic in my goals.
Thanks to anyone who's still reading this, you are a real one!!!
***Here's a pic of Fluffysama_ using this amazing Instagram filter below: (they're getting realllll creative these days. love em.)
Post by: Viktoriak_ on July 16, 2020, 09:47:15 pm
Quote
I haven't been writing down everything that I get done other than the things on my to-do list (which I never complete), so when I look at my to-do lists it seems like I haven't done anything.Ahh I relate to this too much!
Quote
I went through a stress-induced panicked frenzy but now I am not. Just gonna face the fact that Trials is coming up and I need to be realistic in my goals.I feel like we all need a mini panic attack to get the ball rolling... :P
Good luck for your prep, sounds like you got a heap of work done so just gotta keep at it ;D
Post by: alice343 on July 20, 2020, 10:19:23 pm
So today I did more work on my PIP than I have in the past few months, no joke. It's getting easier and easier to write as I'm getting increasingly aware of the time constraints. I hate that I work better under pressure urhghhghhhhhghhh. This really isn't helping considering I am majorly underprepared for the English exam, which is in less than 2 weeks now...hooray ! But honestly I just need to keep reminding myself that everyone is in the same boat, and I just have to do my best as always. I just want to ignore everything and only focus on my PIP. I absolutely CANNOT WAIT until I can make it look pretty with all the borders and title pages and formatting (I frking love formatting) !!! I asked my friend to help me with title pages, and he's super knowledgeable when it comes to graphic design and all the shabang, so I have no doubt it'll look great.
Hope everyone is taking care of themselves - reminder to take a break!
Alice
Post by: alice343 on July 30, 2020, 06:46:32 pm
I've been a bit MIA. I just had my English Trials today!! It was pretty good, I don't think I did the best I could have since I didn't prepare enough beforehand (I was memorising quotes last night). I guess it went well for the amount of prep that I did.
MY PIP!!! I finally did the primary research. I kinda have like half the content analysis done, I know it's due on Monday but that's basically the last thing I have left to do, do some editing over the weekend and then give it in. I'm relieved that I've gotten all the annotations and footnoting and nit picky stuff done (I procrastinated by doing that).
My History Ext teacher extended the due date for the History Project HAHA!!! I was feeling overwhelmed since it was supposed to be due on Tuesday, the PIP draft due on Wednesday, and Trials starting Thursday (Today), so super super super thankful that he extended it. I've written like half of the essay, I'm not really in the right headspace to work on it esp bc of Trials, so I'll work on it maybe next week.
My next exam is Modern on Monday! I went through the Power and Authority syllabus today with my class, and we're pretty solid with the content. The tricky part is detail - there's so many little stats and info etc that is what differentiates you amongst the top marks. How the heck am I going to memorise all of these before Monday!!!
I woke up with a massive headache, and it's only gotten worse during the day. I feel super tired and just drained, even though it's only the first day of Trials. I might just do some light studying tonight.
Thanks for reading! :)
Post by: Fluffysama_ on August 02, 2020, 08:32:47 pm
alice babyyy, hey at least English is over!! we so deserve a break after all this! Don't strain yourself too much bro! ps: can't wait to see you and goodluck for your other upcomign tests!!!
See my new post (its been 30 days for me I SAW THE ReD " ITS BEEN 30DAYS" and I almost shat myself cos I was like damnnnn son ansdjsadjsahd but I finally did our " twin" photos fhwiuhdwei :))) also!!! You always motivate me so much!!! love you bubs and I GOT MOTM!!! :-0))) I literally am elevated atm
Post by: alice343 on August 03, 2020, 08:15:23 pm
awhnnn
alice babyyy, hey at least English is over!! we so deserve a break after all this! Don't strain yourself too much bro! ps: can't wait to see you and goodluck for your other upcomign tests!!!
See my new post (its been 30 days for me I SAW THE ReD " ITS BEEN 30DAYS" and I almost shat myself cos I was like damnnnn son ansdjsadjsahd but I finally did our " twin" photos fhwiuhdwei :))) also!!! You always motivate me so much!!! love you bubs and I GOT MOTM!!! :-0))) I literally am elevated atm
omg CONGRATS!!! thank you for all the support MWAH
Post by: alice343 on August 03, 2020, 08:22:25 pm
hey folks, guess who submitted their PIP in today :) It is honestly the biggest relief to get it off my shoulders. It shouldn't have been this hard if I had just worked on it throughout the whole 9 months lol... but I'm still proud of what I achieved in the little time I was left with after procrastinating. My title pages for each section are a bit fcked, but my main title page is really holding me up lmfao. The markers better eat the page UP. My PIP ended up being 104 pages, but the actual PIP contents was only 50 ish. I had no idea the resource list and appendices would take up so much. but yes. super relieved, super happy.
i had my modern trials todayyyyyy... i completely neglected studying for it to work on my PIP, but it honestly went alright. I answered every question despite not studying lol. I'm not expecting high marks but oh well.
my next exam is ext history tomorrow! haven't been studying for it this whole year ahaha... i did a practice essay a few weeks ago and it wasn't too bad. i think the concepts are pretty easy to grasp, but it's just a matter of synthesising all the information into one succinct essay.
thanks for reading folks :D
Post by: alice343 on August 05, 2020, 06:08:54 pm
so yesterday I had my history extension exam; I really didn't prepare for it (kinda learnt the case study the night before) so I'm not excited to get the results back :/ I still wrote two essays but I didn't quite finish the second one since I ran out of time, and I kinda left out chunks of the first essay because I wasn't sure what to write.
But today is a different story! I had my Japanese exam, which was probably the best exam I've had so far. I felt confident with all the answers, except maybe a few small ones. I feel like I shouldn't speak too soon...but my speaking exam is on next Wednesday, so I'll be preparing for that this week.
My remaining exams are Legal and SAC! I'm kinda excited to study for Legal since it's so straightforward in terms of both content and writing. I'm definitely NOT excited to study for SAC, since I have no idea how to even start. I'm going to start tonight so I don't get lazy and slack off.
Thanks for reading, and as always, stay safe!!!
Post by: alice343 on August 10, 2020, 04:48:38 pm
MY TRIALS ARE OVER HOORAYY!!!!!
I just had my Legal and SAC exams today...ooof. I managed to get some amount of sleep, so it wasn't too bad. The legal exam was so much easier than I thought it would be, and I guessed one of the questions for family law!! The crime essay was on young offenders, which was our assessment task :/// Our class really thought it wouldn't be on young offenders cos that would have been too easy lol. I think I spent wayyy too long on the crime essay, and I ended up eating up the spare time that I gained from doing the multiple-choice and short answers quickly. I finished the last essay just as the timer ended, phew. I'm a bit worried because I didn't get time to check over multiple choice answers, but I was pretty confident when I answered them.
SAC!!!!! I hate myself for spending too long on legal and not enough for SAC. But I'm relieved I could answer all the questions with minimal study. Our teacher also marks pretty leniently sOoOooOo...
I just have the speaking exam for Japanese on Wednesday! I'm not too worried about it, and our class is going to practise tomorrow at school :)
I also just realised I still have my History Project due on Tuesday :o It weighs more than the trials so I should probs focus on that.
Anyways, thanks for reading :D
Post by: Justin_L on August 10, 2020, 08:31:02 pm
Post by: alice343 on August 10, 2020, 10:53:08 pm
Congrats! That must feel amazing, although the timing of history and japanese sound like a pain. Best of luck with your history project as well, and please don't leave it to the last minute for the love of god (tho it might be a bit late by the sounds of things)
Oh haha it's alright, I'm going to be working on the history project for this week, and Japanese isn't too stressful. I have like half of it done lol
Post by: alice343 on August 11, 2020, 04:42:43 pm
Anyways, I'm gonna practise some speaking for my Japanese exam tomorrow and work on my History Project tonight :)
Post by: Viktoriak_ on August 17, 2020, 01:03:34 pm
Hey guys, so I just realised today that the ANU early entry offer was an UNCONDITIONAL one, which means I just have to graduate??? That's crazyyyyyyyyyyyy. I don't know if I'll accept yet. But I'm super bummed because I didn't research accommodation when I applied...I didn't think I would get an offer or end up going, so I kinda just picked a random one. I think you can change it but I'm not too sure? Anyways, I don't think it has properly registered yet because the process was so simple?? I feel like growing up I always thought of uni as a super intimidating place that was really difficult to get into, but apparently not??
Anyways, I'm gonna practise some speaking for my Japanese exam tomorrow and work on my History Project tonight :)
Ayyee that's super exciting, congrats! Definitely helps with the stress/pressure for the rest of HSC.
Good luck with your jap and history (altho by the time u read this it'll probably be done...).
Post by: alice343 on August 20, 2020, 06:07:15 pm
THE JOYS AND SORROWS OF ASSESSMENT FREE LIFE
Post-Trials Slump
Post-Trials Slump
WOOP WOOOOOOPPPP I'm finally done with all assessments. I gave my History Project in on Tuesday, and it was the greatest feeling ever. As always, I regret not working on it consistently throughout the year, but what's done is done! I feel a bit sorry for my teacher, who has given us 4 extensions HAHA
I've finished the content for all my subjects besides Modern and Legal, so I've been enjoying this. However, I can't seem to drag myself out of this post-trials slump. My brain is utterly fried from trials. BUT, there's only 2 months until Eng Paper 1 so I really need to get my shit togetherrrrr. I've finished all my notes basically, just need to work on some quote tables for Eng and some extra revision materials. In class, we've started revision and we're doing more timed writing, which I'm thankful for. We're revising the Common Module for Eng at the moment and getting back into it after 2 terms hurts my brain sm lol, plus Dobson's poetry is so inaccessible to most of us teens. (NESA making us write about old age and motherhood without having ever experienced the two)
The main thing I'm focusing on atm is my oral examination for Japanese in August. It's in less than a month so I need to practise speaking daily. It really requires a lot of motivation and dedication to practise speaking sigh. Going to start practising more with classmates and teachers. I'm waiting until I get my trials results back, so I can do a full reflection then :)
Some sad news. Graduations, formals and informal assemblies are cancelled :( this is so tragic, we can't even celebrate our 13 years of schooling with our families and friends! I'm hoping this remains only until the end of this term, since these can perhaps be postponed to next term? I don't know if many would be willing to participate in school activities after HSC exams are over, but it feels so anti-climactic to just graduate with it seeming like every other year.
Anyways, I hope everyone is well. Thanks for reading!
Alice
Post by: alice343 on August 29, 2020, 11:43:32 am
Week 6 Update
This week was so yuck, the mood was so off and it wasn't just me, it felt like everyone at school was feeling off. It's worrying but comforting at the same time to know that others are feeling the same way as me. I have a feeling this will get better next week though!
I've gotten my Trials results for English, SAC and Ext. so far. I'm REALLY HAPPY about Eng and SAC, I got what I expected for Ext. so not too mad about it. I'm still waiting for the rest, which I think I'll get back sometime this week? I'll wait until I get all of them to do a full Trials reflection post.
I just made a study timetable for HSC, and a classmate suggested doing an essay per day until the HSC (which is VERY ambitious but worth a try), starting on Monday. I know I need to start preparing ASAP since the time given for Trials wasn't enough (around 4 weeks), and I really do not want to be in the position of cramming and regretting not studying earlier.
I apologise for the mundane update - hopefully this will change in the next week or so.
Thanks for reading : D
Post by: alice343 on September 08, 2020, 06:56:34 pm
Oopsies, haven't updated my journal in a while. Anywho, I'm still waiting on my trials for Japanese (I think I'm getting it back tomorrow!) and Legal, but I'm getting them all this week so I'm super pumped!!! So far my trials have been a mix of highs and lows, so I'm keen to see how I went overall when I have all my subjects.
Alsooooo my Japanese oral exam is coming up this Saturday!!! It doesn't feel like it's so soon, I feel like I should be stressing way more but I think trials sapped out all possible stress HAHA. My class has been practising a lot recently so that's probably why. I'm excited to get it over with, since that only means I have a shorter HSC exam lol.
Only 41 days until English Paper 1!! Time has really flown by since Trials ended and I don't think I've been using that time the most wisely, but I've started to get back into the study flow and been handing in more practice responses to teachers. I cannot wait until this is all over. Graduation is so soon, but it really doesn't feel like it at all. I was looking forward to having the year 11s doing the farewell arch, and having all our family members attending our graduation : ( Not sure what's happening with formal yet, but AHHHHH this year has just been a serious rollercoaster.
Thanks for reading, and don't give up!
Post by: Viktoriak_ on September 09, 2020, 04:29:49 pm
That's a shame about grad - but it's out of our control. Hopefully you can still make the most of whatever ceremony you can have :)
Best of luck for your Japanese exam!!
Post by: alice343 on September 11, 2020, 04:41:46 pm
Gahhh time HAS gone so fast, sounds like your getting back into the study grind tho, which is awesome.
That's a shame about grad - but it's out of our control. Hopefully you can still make the most of whatever ceremony you can have :)
Best of luck for your Japanese exam!!
Thank you!
Post by: alice343 on September 11, 2020, 05:12:24 pm
I have finally gotten all my Trials results back!!! Overall, I think Trials really helped me realise how underprepared I was in terms of exam practice. My timing became an issue in multiple exams, which I'm definitely working on. Good thing is that I've maintained my ranks except for Modern, and also finally gotten ranks for History Ext since we didn't have any assessments until Trials. Best to worst:
SAC: 100%, 1/16
English: 92.5%, 4/94
Legal: 90%, 1/32
Japanese: 87%, 3/12
Modern: 83%, 9/32
History Ext: 78%, 5/9
I was such a stress head going into Trials, and I think this seriously impacted my Modern and Ext results. I remember my PIP was due the same day as the Modern exam, so I basically didn't study for it at all (and dropped ranks :-\), which in hindsight was quite foolish of me for not preparing earlier EEK. For Ext (which was the next day) I also barely studied, and I really regret not putting more effort into my History Project but I guess my rank is average so it's okay. I know I didn't try my hardest for my internals, and I'm definitely aiming for higher in the HSC exam. I ALSO MISREAD THE FIRST QUESTION FOR MODERN. I wrote my answer based on the wrong source and only realised once I finished the question, and had to rewrite it completely - this completely screwed up my confidence (like come on it was the first question and you couldn't even read it :'()
My Ext teacher was saying how he could tell how stressed and anxious I was just by looking at my handwriting - not a good sign! I think this ultimately comes down to me not having the practice under exam conditions (and also not studying for the histories LOL) - this timing also became an issue for Legal; I finished my last essay JUST as the timer went off, and hence didn't get any time to check over my multiple-choice - that's why I got significantly lower in the MC section than I was hoping for.
For English, it was the opposite actually. I read the clock times before they changed it to the correct ones (since we started later), and thought I was running out of time - so I completely rushed my Mod C and then when I looked up I realised I actually still had 10 minutes left!!! Though I still did relatively well, I could have done better had I planned my time properly. A really hopeful thing my Eng teacher has said - that our cohort is better than last year (even despite COVID somehow) and that they're expecting more Band 6's!
Well, now it's really just up to me to study as much as I can to prepare for the exams - as well as working with the cohort so everyone can be boosted up. Graduation is only 8 school days away!!! Today in Modern our class agreed that we felt super indifferent to graduating, but then our teacher started giving us a lecture on why we should care and I started tearing up lol. I have a feeling my emotions will come super delayed, probably during these school holidays. Like is this really how high school is going to end??
I'll probably spend tonight doing some speaking practice with my Japanese class, and hopefully get a good night's sleep for tomorrow.
Thanks for reading : )
Post by: alice343 on September 19, 2020, 06:59:00 pm
Hey everyone!!! It really just hit me that there is only one month until HSC...like how did this happen wth. All those study timetables and plans I made did not end up working lol. The end of term has got everyone caught up in all these celebrations and parties, so I haven't really been studying as hard as I thought I would be. I can't even keep count of all the class parties lined up for this week, everyone's scrambling to get gifts ready for our teachers and taking opportunities to celebrate with friends as much as possible during these times.
If any year 11 is reading this, ACTUALLY, TRULY LISTEN TO PREVIOUS YEAR 12s ( inc. me). Do not underestimate how far in advance you need to start preparing. If you think you are preparing well in advance, well... you probably are not. I thought I was going well for Trials but turns out I seriously underestimated how much there really was to revise and prepare for. Please be organised to a T and if you think x amount of time is sufficient, probably double that amount : D I don't mean to scare anyone haha but that's reality.
I guess the purpose of this post is just a kinda farewell before I retreat into intense HSC-study hermit mode. I think I only have 1 plan to go out during the holidays, excluding group study sessions. Once week 10 is over, I think I can seriously knuckle down.
Thanks for reading!
Post by: Nomsie on September 19, 2020, 11:19:43 pm
Week 9 Update
Hey everyone!!! It really just hit me that there is only one month until HSC...like how did this happen wth. All those study timetables and plans I made did not end up working lol. The end of term has got everyone caught up in all these celebrations and parties, so I haven't really been studying as hard as I thought I would be. I can't even keep count of all the class parties lined up for this week, everyone's scrambling to get gifts ready for our teachers and taking opportunities to celebrate with friends as much as possible during these times
If any year 11 is reading this, ACTUALLY, TRULY LISTEN TO PREVIOUS YEAR 12s ( inc. me). Do not underestimate how far in advance you need to start preparing. If you think you are preparing well in advance, well... you probably are not. I thought I was going well for Trials but turns out I seriously underestimated how much there really was to revise and prepare for. Please be organised to a T and if you think x amount of time is sufficient, probably double that amount : D I don't mean to scare anyone haha but that's reality.
I guess the purpose of this post is just a kinda farewell before I retreat into intense HSC-study hermit mode. I think I only have 1 plan to go out during the holidays, excluding group study sessions. Once week 10 is over, I think I can seriously knuckle down.
Thanks for reading!
Hey!
so excited for you that you are almost done and I wish you the best of luck for your HSC. I am almost in year 12 (like 3 weeks to go), do you possibly have any organisational or study tips. i want to walk into year 12 prepared and with a system, but I'm kinda struggling. i also am doing SAC and Hist ext, so if you also have any tips for those major works, please share them!!
Post by: alice343 on September 20, 2020, 09:39:08 pm
Hey!
so excited for you that you are almost done and I wish you the best of luck for your HSC. I am almost in year 12 (like 3 weeks to go), do you possibly have any organisational or study tips. i want to walk into year 12 prepared and with a system, but I'm kinda struggling. i also am doing SAC and Hist ext, so if you also have any tips for those major works, please share them!!
Hi Nomsie!
Thank you! I am definitely ECSTATIC for the end of HSC. And now it's time for you to enter Year 12 awwww ;D I would love to share some tips with you! Would you also be able to tell me how exactly you are struggling?
Well since you're almost starting year 12, I think you would have begun to grasp your preferred studying and learning styles, etc. Everyone studies differently, but I have found that I prefer verbalising and presenting content to help me learn (teaching others is a great way to study!). I know there's a bunch of categories on 'what type of learner are you' on the net, but I don't think it's efficient to take all of that into heart. Ultimately, everyone benefits from a mixed learning approach. It also depends on the subject. You probably wouldn't be drawing up mindmaps for Maths; that would be more useful for Modern History or something more conceptual/thematic.
But definitely organise some group study sessions and teach the content to each other; this is the most effective, proven way to study! You could perhaps do this every 2 weeks or so; gather a few people from each class (they don't have to be your friends! In fact, it's probably better you don't talk to them as often, since you'll learn new things!), make it a habit. Always try and help each other, so everyone gets boosted up. If you know the ranks, try and get advice from those of a higher rank; see what they are doing different and whether you can try implement it in your study too.
One really useful thing a few students did for English in our grade was to create a Google Classroom for the whole Advanced cohort (personal accounts). We share resources, exemplar essays, etc. to help elevate everyone. This might not be as helpful with a smaller cohort; instead, try a Google Drive folder (I did this for SAC). Yes, I think everyone has a Google Classroom for each subject set by their teacher, but with your own you can upload all types of resources and not clutter the Classroom and the teachers' announcements.
Here are some things I did at the start of year 11/12 and have continued:
- Update notes everyday/every week. I did it every day since I knew I wouldn't be bothered to do it on the weekend. I wasn't always consistent on it, but I used the holidays to catch up. I have all my notes done now for every topic of every subject! I would STRONGLY suggest you finish all your notes before Trials so you don't have to do them after (it's really unmotivating afterwards). But also if you don't think you need notes, that's fine too. Just make sure you have a consistent source for your syllabus content.
- Print out the syllabus for every module/topic/depth study et. of every subject. Glue these in your book as you're going through it in class, makes for a quick and easy reference. Always follow the syllabus!!! Really know what the syllabus is asking you to do.
- Print out another copy of the syllabi and stick it in a binder. I chose to organise each binder as one topic/module etc. of each subject, as I received so many handouts and papers. I think it's easier this way than to have a super big binder for each subject, as you would have to flip through to find a specific topic.
- With any handouts you're given, as soon as you have taken all the information from them (for me, synthesising it into my notes), stick it in your binder! You'll never be scrambling to find them ever again if you ever need them!
- Colour coding!!! I have colour coded all my subjects since the start of year 12. I think it helps me a lot because I also enjoy learning visually. It helps you find things better, also colour code WITHIN your books too; e.g. red for main heading, yellow for subheadings, blue for key concepts, etc.
- Also I printed out the NESA key verbs glossary and I stuck that on my study wall so I always know what the question is asking me :)
- I recommend a 'past papers tracker' -> a bit extra, but I like to keep track of all past papers (including other schools' trials) that I have done
- An internal assessments tracker! Also a bit extra, but I set out my subjects and each assessment result in table form to see how I'm going (also include ranks)
- I recommend you make a study plan for each subject, since they're all different and require different study methods
- A study timetable might help you if you really try and stick to one; but I couldn't and still can't. I just do whatever feels right to me, say I don't think I've gone over Power and Authority for Modern in the past week, then I'll go revise that. So if you do decide to stick to one, make sure it's as flexible as possible!
- I have monthly calendars stuck on my wall, for both the current month and the next -> I like seeing the bigger picture, it helps to visualise the time. I also made termly planners; during the holidays, before each term, I mapped out everything that I knew for sure; check your assessment schedule! Put those assessments in. See if there are any school events; incursion, club events, etc. Also put your extracurriculars, weekend commitments. Put everything in there (not just school). I had Monday-Sunday for each week, and also another column for goals -> things I wanted to have completed by then. I ALSO have a whole year schedule thing; basically I just took out the assessment schedule, which has every single term. Again, it helps me visualise the time passing.
- I have mini filing cabinets; I use one for each subject, I also have ones designated for extra stationery, spare paper (I accumulated a crap ton since year 10 for math working out, but now I don't do math and don't use the spare paper at all), school notes and stuff. My dad just had some lying around and they turned out to be the absolute best! I'm lucky my study desk is quite long, so there's space to fit. What I store in each drawer is the schoolbooks, any current handouts/booklets etc. that I need to reference regularly, and current things to do (homework). As I mentioned before, as soon as I don't need the handouts anymore, I transfer them to the binder. This way your drawer isn't chock full of unnecessary things.
- Keep a journal/diary thingo! My school gives out diaries each year, but I like to customise my own. I keep it pretty simple, I just make to do lists for each day. Make sure not to have unrealistic, super long to-do lists. Prioritise the top 3 things, then write down the next 3. This way you don't get unmotivated. I also like to do weekly reflections sometimes; write down my achievements, write down what I could have done, write down things to do for next week. This doesn't have to be the only school-related! It can be personal too.
- Make use of study apps and nifty little tools on your devices! I made a post a while ago about useful study apps:
https://atarnotes.com/forum/index.php?topic=190925.msg1165266#msg1165266
- Whiteboards are pretty cool. So are flashcards, post it notes, etc. They're not for everyone. I like post it notes the most; for Japanese, I stick Kanji around the house so I learn from exposure. I also like to have a bunch of post it notes next to me as I study; sometimes I'll randomly think of something that doesn't really 'match' anywhere (idk if that makes sense?), and so to prevent me from forgetting, I quickly scribble it down and go back to studying. Flashcards I use liberally for Japanese vocab. Whiteboards I use for upcoming assessments etc.
- For English, I preferred to purchase my own copy of the prescribed text. This way you can write all over it as much as you want. (or you can use post it notes like a normal person)
One thing I wish I did: do practice questions every single week!!! Just finished a syllabus dot point? Do a past paper question on it. I didn't start regularly doing this until Trials, which I highkey regret.
For the PIP...oh boy.
- You MUST work on it consistently. I only really started doing proper work on it in March, and from then it was a stop and start situation. Don't be like me; do it every week. Every period you're given to work on it; actually work on it. You can talk to your friends any other time! And don't spend an exorbitant amount of time doing research; if you're like me, you'll end up over researching and wasting your time. Get your topic and every part of your PIP structured and planned before the summer holidays. I went on holidays during the summer and so I didn't spend much time on it (except I don't think anyone will be going anywhere these holidays lmao, so may as well use this time to work ahead).
- Make sure you annotate as you go! I did this and it made things so much less stressful. I saw my friends frantically trying to write up their annotated sources the day the PIP was due; not only did they have to write all of it at once, they also have to keep going back to the sources to remind themselves of what it provided. If you do it as you go, you won't need to waste this time.
- Ultimately, do not stress about the PIP. Looking back, it was actually extremely manageable, and you could have produced a solid PIP with 2 weeks of solid work. It isn't actually that much. 5000 words isn't much at all; I went over the word count by basically double (oops). As long as you consistently work on it, you'll be stress free and ready to hand it in.
For History Ext:
- Again, it's not as much as it seems. 2500 words is equivalent to 2 normal English essays. Don't waste your time over-researching!!! Once you start finding sources that repeat the same info, it means it's time for you to start writing. Albeit my History Ext class was quite disrupted due to COVID; no assessments until Trials, so we never really had essay practice.
- There is no structure for the History Project; it's so vague, you'll either love it or hate it. I personally hated it. There really are no rules for it; it's not a traditional essay. As long as you're getting the point across, and your teacher agrees, I think you'll be fine. MAKE SURE TO GIVE IN AS MANY DRAFTS AS POSSIBLE.
I hope this helped you!
Alice : D
Post by: Nomsie on September 22, 2020, 11:53:12 pm
Hi Nomsie!
Thank you! I am definitely ECSTATIC for the end of HSC. And now it's time for you to enter Year 12 awwww ;D I would love to share some tips with you! Would you also be able to tell me how exactly you are struggling?
Well since you're almost starting year 12, I think you would have begun to grasp your preferred studying and learning styles, etc. Everyone studies differently, but I have found that I prefer verbalising and presenting content to help me learn (teaching others is a great way to study!). I know there's a bunch of categories on 'what type of learner are you' on the net, but I don't think it's efficient to take all of that into heart. Ultimately, everyone benefits from a mixed learning approach. It also depends on the subject. You probably wouldn't be drawing up mindmaps for Maths; that would be more useful for Modern History or something more conceptual/thematic.
But definitely organise some group study sessions and teach the content to each other; this is the most effective, proven way to study! You could perhaps do this every 2 weeks or so; gather a few people from each class (they don't have to be your friends! In fact, it's probably better you don't talk to them as often, since you'll learn new things!), make it a habit. Always try and help each other, so everyone gets boosted up. If you know the ranks, try and get advice from those of a higher rank; see what they are doing different and whether you can try implement it in your study too.
One really useful thing a few students did for English in our grade was to create a Google Classroom for the whole Advanced cohort (personal accounts). We share resources, exemplar essays, etc. to help elevate everyone. This might not be as helpful with a smaller cohort; instead, try a Google Drive folder (I did this for SAC). Yes, I think everyone has a Google Classroom for each subject set by their teacher, but with your own you can upload all types of resources and not clutter the Classroom and the teachers' announcements.
Here are some things I did at the start of year 11/12 and have continued:
- Update notes everyday/every week. I did it every day since I knew I wouldn't be bothered to do it on the weekend. I wasn't always consistent on it, but I used the holidays to catch up. I have all my notes done now for every topic of every subject! I would STRONGLY suggest you finish all your notes before Trials so you don't have to do them after (it's really unmotivating afterwards). But also if you don't think you need notes, that's fine too. Just make sure you have a consistent source for your syllabus content.
- Print out the syllabus for every module/topic/depth study et. of every subject. Glue these in your book as you're going through it in class, makes for a quick and easy reference. Always follow the syllabus!!! Really know what the syllabus is asking you to do.
- Print out another copy of the syllabi and stick it in a binder. I chose to organise each binder as one topic/module etc. of each subject, as I received so many handouts and papers. I think it's easier this way than to have a super big binder for each subject, as you would have to flip through to find a specific topic.
- With any handouts you're given, as soon as you have taken all the information from them (for me, synthesising it into my notes), stick it in your binder! You'll never be scrambling to find them ever again if you ever need them!
- Colour coding!!! I have colour coded all my subjects since the start of year 12. I think it helps me a lot because I also enjoy learning visually. It helps you find things better, also colour code WITHIN your books too; e.g. red for main heading, yellow for subheadings, blue for key concepts, etc.
- Also I printed out the NESA key verbs glossary and I stuck that on my study wall so I always know what the question is asking me :)
- I recommend a 'past papers tracker' -> a bit extra, but I like to keep track of all past papers (including other schools' trials) that I have done
- An internal assessments tracker! Also a bit extra, but I set out my subjects and each assessment result in table form to see how I'm going (also include ranks)
- I recommend you make a study plan for each subject, since they're all different and require different study methods
- A study timetable might help you if you really try and stick to one; but I couldn't and still can't. I just do whatever feels right to me, say I don't think I've gone over Power and Authority for Modern in the past week, then I'll go revise that. So if you do decide to stick to one, make sure it's as flexible as possible!
- I have monthly calendars stuck on my wall, for both the current month and the next -> I like seeing the bigger picture, it helps to visualise the time. I also made termly planners; during the holidays, before each term, I mapped out everything that I knew for sure; check your assessment schedule! Put those assessments in. See if there are any school events; incursion, club events, etc. Also put your extracurriculars, weekend commitments. Put everything in there (not just school). I had Monday-Sunday for each week, and also another column for goals -> things I wanted to have completed by then. I ALSO have a whole year schedule thing; basically I just took out the assessment schedule, which has every single term. Again, it helps me visualise the time passing.
- I have mini filing cabinets; I use one for each subject, I also have ones designated for extra stationery, spare paper (I accumulated a crap ton since year 10 for math working out, but now I don't do math and don't use the spare paper at all), school notes and stuff. My dad just had some lying around and they turned out to be the absolute best! I'm lucky my study desk is quite long, so there's space to fit. What I store in each drawer is the schoolbooks, any current handouts/booklets etc. that I need to reference regularly, and current things to do (homework). As I mentioned before, as soon as I don't need the handouts anymore, I transfer them to the binder. This way your drawer isn't chock full of unnecessary things.
- Keep a journal/diary thingo! My school gives out diaries each year, but I like to customise my own. I keep it pretty simple, I just make to do lists for each day. Make sure not to have unrealistic, super long to-do lists. Prioritise the top 3 things, then write down the next 3. This way you don't get unmotivated. I also like to do weekly reflections sometimes; write down my achievements, write down what I could have done, write down things to do for next week. This doesn't have to be the only school-related! It can be personal too.
- Make use of study apps and nifty little tools on your devices! I made a post a while ago about useful study apps:
https://atarnotes.com/forum/index.php?topic=190925.msg1165266#msg1165266
- Whiteboards are pretty cool. So are flashcards, post it notes, etc. They're not for everyone. I like post it notes the most; for Japanese, I stick Kanji around the house so I learn from exposure. I also like to have a bunch of post it notes next to me as I study; sometimes I'll randomly think of something that doesn't really 'match' anywhere (idk if that makes sense?), and so to prevent me from forgetting, I quickly scribble it down and go back to studying. Flashcards I use liberally for Japanese vocab. Whiteboards I use for upcoming assessments etc.
- For English, I preferred to purchase my own copy of the prescribed text. This way you can write all over it as much as you want. (or you can use post it notes like a normal person)
One thing I wish I did: do practice questions every single week!!! Just finished a syllabus dot point? Do a past paper question on it. I didn't start regularly doing this until Trials, which I highkey regret.
For the PIP...oh boy.
- You MUST work on it consistently. I only really started doing proper work on it in March, and from then it was a stop and start situation. Don't be like me; do it every week. Every period you're given to work on it; actually work on it. You can talk to your friends any other time! And don't spend an exorbitant amount of time doing research; if you're like me, you'll end up over researching and wasting your time. Get your topic and every part of your PIP structured and planned before the summer holidays. I went on holidays during the summer and so I didn't spend much time on it (except I don't think anyone will be going anywhere these holidays lmao, so may as well use this time to work ahead).
- Make sure you annotate as you go! I did this and it made things so much less stressful. I saw my friends frantically trying to write up their annotated sources the day the PIP was due; not only did they have to write all of it at once, they also have to keep going back to the sources to remind themselves of what it provided. If you do it as you go, you won't need to waste this time.
- Ultimately, do not stress about the PIP. Looking back, it was actually extremely manageable, and you could have produced a solid PIP with 2 weeks of solid work. It isn't actually that much. 5000 words isn't much at all; I went over the word count by basically double (oops). As long as you consistently work on it, you'll be stress free and ready to hand it in.
For History Ext:
- Again, it's not as much as it seems. 2500 words is equivalent to 2 normal English essays. Don't waste your time over-researching!!! Once you start finding sources that repeat the same info, it means it's time for you to start writing. Albeit my History Ext class was quite disrupted due to COVID; no assessments until Trials, so we never really had essay practice.
- There is no structure for the History Project; it's so vague, you'll either love it or hate it. I personally hated it. There really are no rules for it; it's not a traditional essay. As long as you're getting the point across, and your teacher agrees, I think you'll be fine. MAKE SURE TO GIVE IN AS MANY DRAFTS AS POSSIBLE.
I hope this helped you!
Alice : D
Just read through, and Thankyou so much for taking the time to respond! I will definitely consider most of these (as I already tend to do most of them).
Once again Thankyou and wish you the best of luck for your HSC!!! :)
Post by: alice343 on September 23, 2020, 07:39:43 pm
Just read through, and Thankyou so much for taking the time to respond! I will definitely consider most of these (as I already tend to do most of them).
Once again Thankyou and wish you the best of luck for your HSC!!! :)
You are very welcome! I hope you enjoy Year 12!
Post by: alice343 on September 26, 2020, 12:42:07 pm
The end to 13 yrs of schooling !!! Holy heck I feel so numb. I had my graduation on Thursday, and a picnic type celebration on Friday. My mind has been free of anything related to studying, and it was really nice to just live in the moment and enjoy everything with friends while it lasted. I think I cried at least 2 litres of tears, everyday this past week HAHA.
I woke up this morning however, realising that I had to start studying for HSC now (booooo!). I've been cleaning out my study room since I woke up to get me ready in the mindset. It'll probably take me a bit longer, plus some chores I need to do. I should be ready to do some proper study tonight. How daunting!!! I still feel like I'll be attending normal school next term, just like every other year.
Post by: fantasticbeasts3 on September 26, 2020, 10:21:15 pm
Post by: alice343 on September 30, 2020, 08:54:50 pm
Congratulations on graduating alice343!!!!! What an achievement! Best of luck for the HSC <3
Thank you!! I really appreciate it. : )
Post by: alice343 on September 30, 2020, 09:08:28 pm
Progress has been made! Slowly but surely. My general study plan is to do as much exam practice/many past papers as possible, even if I haven't memorised all my content. I know content enough to do the paper, so if I come across something in the exam that I'm not sure about, I'll add it to a list of things to revise.
On Monday I sat down to do a History Extension paper and realised I didn't know any of my sources. So I went back to my notes and fixed them up a bit; hoping to do the paper tomorrow. I also did a practice English Paper 1, but some of the questions really stumped me. My essay was also a bit :/// since I haven't had much practice writing timed Common Mod essays. By the time night time hit, my motivation just disappeared and I only ended up doing some multiple choice for SAC.
Yesterday (Tuesday), I did the Power and Authority section of a Modern paper, timed. Modern really tires me out!!! I can't fathom doing all of that again; can't believe I managed for Trials. I also did the 2015 HSC Japanese paper, which was good. Japanese exams are probably the easiest to do out of all my subjects. At nighttime, my motivation went out the window again, so I just did some practice HR answer for Legal.
Today, I spent the whole day trying to do a practice Eng paper 2... I kept pausing the timer to take breaks, which definitely defeated the purpose of doing the paper together. I need to work on writing faster, especially for Module A since it's more content to pack into an essay. I managed to do Modules B and C together, but for Module C it was the first time the question asked for only a creative piece, worth 20 marks. I definitely struggled with writing enough for 20 marks, since I always thought the HSC exam would ask for a reflection piece as well?
I also sped through the English Adv lecture today, which definitely reassured me and helped quell my stress. I'm hoping to polish up my Module B quotes and do some essay plans for S&C, but I'm getting super tired so maybe I'll save it for tmr morning.
Well, there's my mundane study update. Hope you guys are all studying well!
Alice : )
Post by: alice343 on October 22, 2020, 12:05:21 pm
english papers 1 and 2 done woooooo!!!
Overall, I felt pretty good. I studied for English the most and did a ton of practice essays, so there wasn't anything super surprising about the papers. In fact, I felt that the short answer section of Paper 1 was easier than most of the practice papers I did. (Also, everyone seems really annoyed at the boat question; I thought that was a good question??)
Also, my English teacher totally predicted the essay question would be on storytelling; I'm so thankful it was a generic question and didn't specific a theme like last year.
As for Paper 2... I can't believe NESA specified an imaginative urghhhh. Literally only practiced discursive and reflective writing the whole year LOL. It reminded me of the NAPLAN days. So for Mod C I'm not expecting anything good at all. Mod A and B questions were pretty good, both generic. Mod B asked for 'aesthetic qualities' which I wasn't too sure meant, I just assumed it was stylistic features and stuff like characterisation, setting, structure etc.
I've got 4 exams from Tuesday to Thursday next week, so I need to start focusing on those subjects. HIGHKEY worried for Modern, so I'll probably spend more time on it.
I hope everyone's taking care of themselves during these stressful times! Thanks for reading : D
Alice
Post by: alice343 on October 29, 2020, 09:28:31 pm
10 UNITS OF EXAMS DOWN
WOOOOOOOOO i feel so gooodddd rn. I had Legal on Tuesday, Japanese on Wednesday and Modern and Society today, meaning I've locked in 10 units of my exams now!! Funnily enough, as each exam has passed, I've started caring less and less what my marks and ATAR will be. I still definitely tried in each exam, but probably not as much as I would have panicked about at the start of this year. I'm gonna do a little reflection for each exam, and rating based on overall how I felt after the exam (not on how well I did)
Legal Studies: better than I expected. I was stressing about the crime essay question so much, since they could have asked anything. Luckily it was just on the trial process, which I did an essay plan on the day before so I knew what to write. The multiple choice was a bit harder than the practice papers I've done, the family law question was exactly the same as my assessment task, and the indigenous peoples question was pretty broad and allowed me to write about anything. Overall rating: 8.5/10
Japanese: harder than expected!! Granted I didn't do much study leading up to the exam, I only did a few past papers during STUVAC. Usually the past papers are quite easy, but this time the reading AND writing was hard. The texts were quite lengthy and had a lot to unpack, and the writing questions were so unexpected and different compared to previous years; we were asked to write about a reunion, a scholarship and a fundraiser; these words weren't even in some of the dictionaries lol. Overall rating: 8/10
Modern: oh dangggg I stressed big time for this exam. I barely did any study for Modern leading up to it, only touched 1/4 of the topics, and Modern has a crap ton of content so I was quite worried. I woke up at 4:30 this morning to do some last minute preparation, which consisted of going through every practice question possible and seeing if I could answer it. This turned out to be quite beneficial! Luckily, most of the predictions from other students and teachers were right, and all that I studied were in the exam. All the questions were quite fair, but the Indochina essay probably pulled me down a bit since it's my weakest (I also highly dislike the topic). I'M SO GLAD THE USA QUESTION WAS ON THE GREAT DEPRESSION. Literally would not have known what to do if it was anything else. Definitely could have done better with proper study. Overall rating: 7/10
Society and Culture: HOW is it possible for a 2 hour exam to cause so much pain. I was extremely worried for the two essays, since our teacher taught the most OBSCURE depth studies ever, and I could never find any resources online. For Social Inclusion and Exclusion, most people in our class just chose to write about the group they researched for an assessment task, which I was also planning to do; then I realised I didn't have enough info in relation to the syllabus so i started FREAKING. Then I got into the exam and didn't even end up using that group, I actually used a group of people I researched for LEGAL HAHA. The question was about housing and technologies, and guess who did land rights for Legal???? Guess it worked in my favour. Also the multiple choice was quite hard??? All the past papers were so easy smh. During reading time, as soon as I saw the belief systems question my heart just dropped. But then I thought about it and it was quite doable. Also wtf was the short answer; a 9 marker??? That's so long. And it sounded like an essay question from the Legal exam. Either way, I'm kinda glad the SAC exam was challenging, because I felt quite proud of myself after for being able to complete it and BS my way out of those wack questions. Overall rating: 8/10
Overall thoughts: I think I am genuinely a very lucky person. In most of my school assessments and stuff, things have always worked in my favour. Like all my exams have had such good questions that helped me somehow??? Idk if it's real (maybe I have perfect the art of bullshitting), but I'm gonna appreciate this. I just have my Ext His exam next Wednesday, and then I'll be DONE WITH HSC!!!! It doesn't even feel like anything is ending.
Thanks for reading!
Alice :)
Post by: alice343 on November 05, 2020, 10:44:29 am
DONE WITH HSC!!!
I had my History Extension exam yesterday, meaning I've finished all my HSC exams!!! It feels quite liberating to not have to worry about studying for the next thing and finally have finished 13 years of compulsory schooling. I've been binging Hannibal on Netflix (almost done with season 2... I started watching on Monday)
History Extension reflection:
- After my SAC exam last week, motivation just left the building so I didn't really study that much
- I could not memorise the quotes for the LIFE of me, so I ended up only using probably less than half of the ones I prepared
- As always, I overstressed for nothing tbh. The questions were pretty good, I just wished I had memorised some quotes for academic v popular history debate oops! The section II question was a bit weirdly worded, and the quote was quite strange?
- They specified 2 areas of debate for Section II LOL... our whole class was depending on there being 1
I made a huge list of post HSC plans before and during my exams, but now I don't even feel like doing any of them??? I just wanna stay at home, watch Netflix, bake and read all the books that have been on my to-read list for the past years lol. I guess I should also start looking for a new job... bank account is looking pretty grim. I have sign out today; not sure if I am saying goodbye to all my teachers ?? It still doesn't feel like it's over. But I am DEFINITELY adding my teachers on Facebook lol.
To anyone with exams still: you can do it!!! It's not long now, do the best you can!
To anyone who has finished: what are your thoughts and plans for post HSC?
Thanks for reading!
Alice :)
Post by: The Cat In The Hat on November 05, 2020, 11:14:25 am
Envious of you finishing your exams - as a VCE student, I haven't even started yet!DONE WITH HSC!!!
I had my History Extension exam yesterday, meaning I've finished all my HSC exams!!! It feels quite liberating to not have to worry about studying for the next thing and finally have finished 13 years of compulsory schooling. I've been binging Hannibal on Netflix (almost done with season 2... I started watching on Monday)
History Extension reflection:
- After my SAC exam last week, motivation just left the building so I didn't really study that much
- I could not memorise the quotes for the LIFE of me, so I ended up only using probably less than half of the ones I prepared
- As always, I overstressed for nothing tbh. The questions were pretty good, I just wished I had memorised some quotes for academic v popular history debate oops! The section II question was a bit weirdly worded, and the quote was quite strange?
- They specified 2 areas of debate for Section II LOL... our whole class was depending on there being 1
I made a huge list of post HSC plans before and during my exams, but now I don't even feel like doing any of them??? I just wanna stay at home, watch Netflix, bake and read all the books that have been on my to-read list for the past years lol. I guess I should also start looking for a new job... bank account is looking pretty grim. I have sign out today; not sure if I am saying goodbye to all my teachers ?? It still doesn't feel like it's over. But I am DEFINITELY adding my teachers on Facebook lol.
To anyone with exams still: you can do it!!! It's not long now, do the best you can!
To anyone who has finished: what are your thoughts and plans for post HSC?
Thanks for reading!
Alice :)
Anyway,
.
Post by: alice343 on November 05, 2020, 12:37:37 pm
Envious of you finishing your exams - as a VCE student, I haven't even started yet!
Anyway,
You'll be done soon!! Good luck!
Post by: Coolmate on November 05, 2020, 03:03:10 pm
DONE WITH HSC!!!
I had my History Extension exam yesterday, meaning I've finished all my HSC exams!!! It feels quite liberating to not have to worry about studying for the next thing and finally have finished 13 years of compulsory schooling. I've been binging Hannibal on Netflix (almost done with season 2... I started watching on Monday)
History Extension reflection:
- After my SAC exam last week, motivation just left the building so I didn't really study that much
- I could not memorise the quotes for the LIFE of me, so I ended up only using probably less than half of the ones I prepared
- As always, I overstressed for nothing tbh. The questions were pretty good, I just wished I had memorised some quotes for academic v popular history debate oops! The section II question was a bit weirdly worded, and the quote was quite strange?
- They specified 2 areas of debate for Section II LOL... our whole class was depending on there being 1
I made a huge list of post HSC plans before and during my exams, but now I don't even feel like doing any of them??? I just wanna stay at home, watch Netflix, bake and read all the books that have been on my to-read list for the past years lol. I guess I should also start looking for a new job... bank account is looking pretty grim. I have sign out today; not sure if I am saying goodbye to all my teachers ?? It still doesn't feel like it's over. But I am DEFINITELY adding my teachers on Facebook lol.
To anyone with exams still: you can do it!!! It's not long now, do the best you can!
To anyone who has finished: what are your thoughts and plans for post HSC?
Thanks for reading!
Alice :)
🎉Congratulations Alice! ;D
This is such a huge accomplishment! And definitely take a well-deserving break :D
Coolmate 8)
Post by: alice343 on December 17, 2020, 11:59:58 pm
I thought waiting for HSC marks and ATARs to come out would be an agonising long time, but it's honestly really flown by. I've mostly just been enjoying my free time by going out with friends, parties, HEAVY Netflix binging and the likes. I've applied to a couple of jobs and have an interview next week; hopefully I get the job!! I feel like most of my friends and people around me aren't stressing that much so I in turn am also not too worried. Thankfully my parents aren't placing much pressure upon me to perform to a certain standard. I'm attending the school morning tea tomorrow, where I will be able to hopefully see many of my peers and teachers that I've missed over this break!
I truly cannot predict my marks and ATAR; I guess it's somewhat of a good thing since I won't be disappointed. Hopefully alignment and scaling and all the NESA - UAC witchery works in my favour. Wishing the best of luck for everyone!
Alice :D
Post by: alice343 on December 18, 2020, 01:00:01 pm
Thankfully it's all overrrrrr. I'm pretty content with my results; of course, there's always that little voice at the back of your mind that tells you that you could have procrastinated less and studied more, but that's life I guess.
Eng Adv: 91
Modern: 90
Legal: 95
Japanese Beg: 91
Society and Culture: 88
History Ext: 41 (E3)
The only thing I'm a bit annoyed at is SAC; I really thought I was going to do better and get a B6??? It was literally my best subject internally so I was pretty surprised. And also I thought I was going to get a band 5 for Modern; a despised 89. It would have been nice to achieve all-rounders, but what matters is that I've gotten the ATAR for my UAC preferences so I'm happy!! I hope everyone is celebrating no matter how pleased or disappointed you are with your results; we've reached the end of our HSC journey and that within itself is something worth celebrating.
Also, everyone on the ATAR Notes forums have been so helpful and supportive this whole time! I appreciate everyone's contributions, they've all made a difference in some way.
Thanks for reading,
Alice :D
Post by: Evolio on December 18, 2020, 01:10:47 pm
Post by: Justin_L on December 18, 2020, 02:05:51 pm
Post by: angewina_naguen on December 18, 2020, 02:42:10 pm
Post by: alice343 on December 18, 2020, 04:24:06 pm
Congrats Alice! ;D
Woahh, these are some amazing results! Congrats, looks like all your hard work paid off!
Congratulations, Alice on your results! Those are some amazing scores there ;D Where are you off to now course-wise?
Thanks guys!
Hey Angelina, I'm deciding between my ANU early entry offer; Flexible Double Degree in International Relations, Politics Philosophy and Economics or USYD for Arts, Advanced Studies (Politics & International Relations) - my first UAC preference; I missed the guaranteed ATAR for USYD by a few tenths, but I'm eligible for their Academic Excellence Scheme, so I get 5 bonus points for a B6 in Eng Adv; so I'm hoping I'll get an offer. The rest of my UAC preferences are International and Global Studies at USYD, PPE at UNSW, Journalism + International Studies at UTS, and Interior Architecture + International Studies at UTS.
Post by: Joseph41 on December 18, 2020, 04:24:50 pm
Thanks guys!
Hey Angelina, I'm deciding between my ANU early entry offer; Flexible Double Degree in International Relations, Politics Philosophy and Economics or USYD for Arts, Advanced Studies (Politics & International Relations) - my first UAC preference; I missed the guaranteed ATAR for USYD by a few tenths, but I'm eligible for their Academic Excellence Scheme, so I get 5 bonus points for a B6 in Eng Adv; so I'm hoping I'll get an offer. The rest of my UAC preferences are International and Global Studies at USYD, PPE at UNSW, Journalism + International Studies at UTS, and Interior Architecture + International Studies at UTS.
I haven't heard of a flexible double degree before - how does that work/what does that mean? Sounds interesting.
Post by: Viktoriak_ on December 19, 2020, 07:57:22 pm
Eng Adv: 91
Modern: 90
Legal: 95
Japanese Beg: 91
Society and Culture: 88
History Ext: 41 (E3)
Congrats Alice on your results, that's amazing!!
I hope you get into the course you want; wishing you best of luck for the year ahead ;D
Post by: alice343 on December 20, 2020, 11:25:34 pm
I haven't heard of a flexible double degree before - how does that work/what does that mean? Sounds interesting.
It's really just what ANU calls their double degrees; they're 'flexible' since you can choose courses from a wide range of faculties; arts, social sciences, business and science.