How to prepare for and cope with poor matric results

As the year draws to a close and the Matric Class finalized their final exams recently, distance educator, Brainline, says it is important that learners take the time over the festive period to prepare themselves emotionally and psychologically for whatever the matric results outcome may be.

The Independent Examination Board (IEB) will release its results on 19 January 2022, while the Department of Basic Education will release their results a day later on 20 January 2022. Brainline Mentor, Liezel Bruwer, says while the majority of learners will use the holidays to relax, the possible stress and worries about final reports may linger.

‘It has been a very difficult year for the Class of 2021, having had to once again cope with a radically different environment due to Covid-19. It is, therefore, important to take this into account, but also to remember that the matric results don’t define you as a person and that everyone has a different set of skills, knowledge and attributes,’ Bruwer says.

Bruwer says parents or guardians can also have an effect on how students experience the waiting time and receiving results. She has given a few tips on how to support these learners during this period:

• Check the expectations set for your children and ensure that these expectations are realistic.
• Continuously reassure your children that you believe in them and that you will be there for them no matter what.
• Do not compare results between siblings or with any other students. Compare their current performance with their past performance.

She also has tips for the students:

• Replace self-criticism with self-correction – learn from your mistakes
• Talk to someone – if you are upset or unhappy with your marks.
• Remember exams are not the end of the word
• Don’t compare your results with friends

Learners who do not achieve their expected matric results, Bruwer says, may experience disappointment and stress ahead. She says it is important to discuss various options with your family and teachers and to put things in perspective. of data and access to technology will hamper the roll-out across the board in especially public schools. 

‘The most important thing is not to panic. If your matric results are lower than expected, work through your options with your parents and mentor. Contact your tertiary institution and discuss your marks with them, if you fear that it might have an influence on the entrance requirements,’ Bruwer explains.

Bruwer says there are also other options available besides asking for a remark.

‘If you were registered for the October/November 2021 exams and completed the Oral, PAT, Practical and SBA components, you are eligible to register directly with the IEB to write the May 2022 exams. Students who deferred some subjects to May and learners who want to improve their marks may do so. There is no restriction on the number of subjects you may register for.’

Bruwer says another alternative is to repeat Grade 12 to improve all the subject marks.

‘In the bigger picture, this might be a good alternative for certain learners who did not fare well due to various circumstances and poor matric results might influence their future plans. It is, however, important not to make any rash decisions. Don’t rush, take your time, weigh your options, don’t be influenced by friends or news headlines and make the right decision for your future.’

Brainline is IEB recognised. Learners who are enrolled with us to complete their final examinations and who fulfil the requirements for this qualification will receive their National Senior Certificate (NSC), as issued by Umalusi.