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If you worry that you’ll not be able to memorise or grasp the entire syllabus in time for exams, this blog post is for you. Effective note-taking is a process of consolidating useful information in a manner that can be easily deciphered. It helps in the strategic storage of information that is presented to us in different situations. Whether you are in a classroom setting, trying to absorb all that is being presented by the tutor or you find yourself in the middle of a solo study session, making notes will help your brain process and remember information in an efficient way. Listed below are a few methods which will help you ease into this process, especially during the exam season.

1. The Cornell Method:

This technique relies on summaries of the course material. Whenever you listen to or read new lessons, you should note down the key points and later construct them into a precise summarization of otherwise lengthy content. You can become creative in this method by using easier versions of complicated words and phrases. This method is beneficial when it comes to remembering the major concepts and themes of the subject matter. Along with that, it’ll help you revise easily.

To apply the Cornell Method in your routine, divide a blank sheet of paper into 3 sections: a 2.5” margin to the left, a 2” summary section on the bottom, and a main 6” in-class note section. Use the main notes section to take notes during class, the cues section to review your notes, and once you’re done with the class, write down things you’ll need to remember and a prompt for each. You can also use this section for vocabulary words and study questions. In the summary segment at the bottom, write a summary of your notes. This is where you will highlight the main points. Given below is a skeleton structure of the method which will help you to put it to execution flawlessly.

2. Mind Mapping

Mind Mapping is one of the most visually efficient ways to memorize a range of complex data. They are an academic tool that helps pupils utilise their cognitive abilities to the maximum. As opposed to linear notes, mind maps are visual structures of information that allow you to see the big picture (how all the different ideas are connected to one another). They are used as a study aid to help clarify thoughts, determine relationships, simplify complex ideas and memorise information.

In order to create a mind map, start with a specific concept that you want to learn. Place the center of a sheet and branch shoots from it, each noting a word or a phrase relating to the main topic. More branches sprout out from them adding more information to the primary concept till the point of completion. The sub-branches will contain detailed pointers for overall understanding. This helps develop and elaborate on the overall theme of the mind map. Including images and sketches can also be helpful in brainstorming and creating the sub-branch topics. Mind maps can be created on paper or on a computer with mind mapping software such as Bubbl.us and MindMeister which allow us to edit as we create. Feel free to download the template below and use it as per your needs.

3. Outlining Method

This technique is famous for its simplicity and speedy execution. However, dash or indented outlining is usually not recommended for certain subjects like physics or math. The information which is most general begins at the left with each more specific group of facts indented with spaces to the right while the relationships between the different parts are carried out through indenting. This method is not complicated as there are no numbers, letters, or Roman numerals needed.

To use this way of note-taking, listen/read and then write in points in an organised pattern based on space indentation. Place major points farthest to the left, and indent each more specific point to the right. Levels of importance will be indicated by distance away from the major point. Indention can be as simple as or as complex as labeling the indentions with Roman numerals or decimals. Markings are not necessary as space relationships will indicate the major/minor points.

As you cruise into the exam season, knowing how to make concise notes will help you grasp and revise the subject matter effectively and efficiently. Young Scholarz offers exam-based intensive revision classes for all IGCSE and IB subjects and can help guide you with effective subject-specific study techniques to help you score excellent grades. We hope this blog post helps you in your exam-prep journey. Reach out to us via email, or social media, or register for a class to have a great learning experience!

Let’s face the elephant in the room: Studying is boring. Whether you’re an IGCSE student or an IB student, it is.

The moment you open your book your hand automatically reaches out to grab the phone and check for notifications. Opening Instagram or Twitter is an involuntary action and we’ve all been there. Anything and everything suddenly becomes much more interesting than the chapter on Fuel and Energy.

But whether you like it or not, you have to study. Being an activity that requires you to sit in one place and read material that’s not half as interesting as that young adult fiction you just purchased is a task that you have to motivate yourself to do. But this is essential for impressive grades and building your career. As Zig Ziglar has said “People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing—that’s why we recommend it daily.” So you ask, how can one possibly make this mundane experience an enjoyable one? Read on to know!

Music Makes Everything Better

Music is the chocolate chip in your cookie, making everything better. Be it school, university, or an internship in a magazine, it helps you get into work mode and focus with much ease. Set up a study playlist when you sit down with your books. It can literally jazz it up and make it a less boring experience.

Note: You need to make playlists in advance so you don’t browse around for music while you’re studying and break the tempo.

Associate different playlists with different subjects – this helps you get into the right study mood for that particular subject. Also, you want to make sure that you don’t play the same music for times when you’re not studying – you don’t want to remember the Pythagoras theorem while trying to get some sleep!

Here are a couple of recommendations for you to add to your playlist:

Yiruma Lofi Hip Hop Radio…look for other playlists on Spotify

Change your environment

Staring at the same wall while you’re at your desk can become mundane for your study routine. Alternate between the rooms you’re studying in and to literally “get a breath of fresh air”, get out of the house! Find a nearby green space and seat yourself on the bench, or head to the nearest cafe where you can sit for a few hours and focus on the subject at hand.

Having a mug of your favourite cinnamon tea by your side can also lift the environment and your spirits. Tea being an energizing drink makes sure you concentrate on the literary devices we keep telling you to write! And do anything but study on your bed! We’re all guilty there, and it may give you a great snooze experience as you snuggle up with your textbook but won’t help with your grades.

Actively engage yourself

At Young Scholarz, this is one thing that we reiterate time and again. Make mind maps for the topic that you’ve taken on. Form tables, branches, diagrams – anything to jot down important bits of information in a hierarchical format. What mind maps do is help you to make visual connections that you can easily draw upon in an exam and under pressure. Along with mind maps, the Pdf element is an app that helps you edit pages from your textbook, simply by uploading scanned pictures of your textbook. Once it’s done, you can change the text, summarise it and annotate as you go. Editing text from the page itself aids active engagement and helps you to retain information better, much as you do with mind maps.

Make a study buddy

“You are the average of the five people that you surround yourself with.”

Though this is common knowledge, it is still very true and very relatable. Surround yourself with people and friends who equally care about education and have similar goals as you do. This can mutually motivate you and your friends through active participation and encouragement. If you’re comfortable with the idea, form a study group with them. This could introduce you to new methods of learning and strengthen the drive to study. Learning with one or more friends also builds your personal skills – you can ask questions, develop conversations, debate, and discuss the material that you’re studying. But, group study is a two-way sword. Being beneficial, it can also get you distracted and reduce your productivity. If you’re dedicated enough, this would be less of a distraction and more of a progressive approach for you.

Make it visual

The main purpose of a textbook is not to entertain you, but to educate you – this purpose makes it one-dimensional and doesn’t always pique your interest. But videos on YouTube and any visual content online help to fill that gap and make it multi-dimensional, keeping you hooked on the screen. Reading as a hobby is threatened by OTT (Over The Top) platforms and social media that spoon-feed the brain with information, seldom encouraging you to stop and think on your own. We must use this medium to our own advantage – a complex concept in text form is made much more digestible in video form.

Keep in mind to take notes of important points while watching study videos – if you don’t actively engage in it, you cannot retain information and this entire practice would be futile. Points that confuse you can be researched upon from your very own textbook. Make them a team!

Reward yourself

There’s no sweeter treat than the one you’ve earned. Set yourself some goals and reward yourself for the achievements you make. It could be a scoop of chocolate ice cream, a pizza slice, or even an episode of your favourite Hulu show. Set realistic goals that are achievable and don’t stress yourself out before you’ve even started! If you’re not able to finish the tasks set for the day, there’s no need to panic about it. You can always continue them the next day and not add on any new tasks for that day. Not finishing a goal does not account for failure in any way.

And lastly… Go out and have fun every now and then! If you study hard, you will enjoy hanging out with your friends even more. Too much studying and too much fun are both a recipe for a spoilt dish, so make sure to balance them out and you may do just fine.

Is it even possible to score a Perfect 800 on your SAT English? Does an 800 on SAT Math sound more doable than the English section? It might sound like an impossible dream to achieve, but everything is possible with the right guidance and skills. Armed with the right tool kit, everything is possible even if it takes months of preparation and several attempts. Whether you’re a first-timer or a 4th, the pressure is intense and increases with SAT fatigue. Fret not, these strategies will help you get a grip and equip you to go forth in your battle to ace the SAT English section.

But, how important is your score and why are we aiming for perfection?

Even though most top-tier colleges will accept you with your 1550 score, getting a 1600 and above naturally improves your chances of getting in. Plus, if it’s possible, your goal should always be to give tasks your 100% and try your very best. SAT English is divided into two sections: Reading and Writing. These strategies we’re sharing work for the reading, as well as the writing section. You may want to grab a Moka pot because this is going to be a long read.

READING

The SAT Reading Test is designed to measure how well you read and interpret different texts that you would come across in college as well as in your career. All the questions are linked to passages from engaging published works. You have 65 minutes to read the passages and answer 52 multiple-choice questions. One passage is derived from a work of fiction, and the remaining are informational, and based on topics like freedom, justice, and human dignity. Each passage will tell a story, make an argument, or explain a study/experiment. The passage ranges in complexity from Grade 9 to the first year of college.

The questions on the reading test are of 3 main categories:

Information and Ideas – Questions focusing on what the passage tells you in a direct/indirect way.
Rhetoric – Questions that ask you to think about how the author brings forth his/her meaning.
Synthesis – Questions that ask you to make inferences and line the dots from the content provided.

WRITING AND LANGUAGE

The SAT Writing and Language section tests your skills and knowledge to revise and edit passages. You have 35 minutes to read 4 passages and answer 44 multiple-choice questions. All the questions are related to the passage and are focused on specific grammar rules, so don’t worry about requiring any external knowledge.

There are two categories of questions

Expression of ideas – here you’ll be asked to improve the development of the topic, organization of the information and ideas, and the effectiveness of the language.
Standard English conventions – Questions of this type ask you to recognize and correct errors in sentence structure, grammar, usage, and punctuation.

Some passages will make use of tables, graphs, or charts. The questions may ask you to use the graphic provided to correct an error in the passage or replace a vague description in the passage with a more precise one. The passages can be more than a page long, so always check before jumping to the questions.

Read the blurb

"Image: A split-screen view featuring two scenarios. On the left, a student confidently selects answers on an SAT English section without reading the blurbs. On the right, a student carefully reads the blurb before answering. The contrast emphasizes the importance of reading blurbs for accurate SAT performance and understanding context."

The blurb to the passage is often skipped while reading, but we strongly advise that you read it first. Read it and consider it as a freebie. It may even contain the answer to a question that asks about the main point of the passage. For example, look at the picture above. You can get a question like “In what context was the speech delivered by Barbara Jordan?”, to which the answer is directly linked to the introduction provided in this picture.

The correct passage reading strategy

You’ve been taught different methods of approaching comprehension in school. This is where you may need to begin to unlearn things. Since you don’t have the time to read in detail, skim reading using the back of your pencil is the way to go! To do this effectively, practice skim-reading newspaper articles. Reading the questions first and then answering is also a tried-and-tested method to score. It saves a lot of time and one can skip lines in the passage that aren’t quizzed upon.

Showing interest in the passage content

Image of the office character showing interest in learning about SAT English

If you are in a position to feel that your life depends on your SAT score, then you need to act like it does! Be interested in the passage as much as you’d be interested in that double chocolate sundae with sprinkles on your cheat day!

We know the topics might not be riveting or mind-blowing but you don’t have the luxury of enjoying them. So focus your attention and try to understand what the author is trying to say and what their opinions are – trust us … this is going to help with answering the questions.

The science of deduction

Sherlock isn’t the only one who holds the patent for the deduction; this strategy applied with reasoned thought will work. All answers may be correct – the questions are designed to confuse you, but SAT will always ask for the Best one. There will only be one perfect fit when looking for THE answer and this will be evidence-based so that you can’t challenge it. When the options all seem like the right answer, and they might be, cover the answers, think like Sherlock for the evidence, and come to the evidence-based answer. Do not waste time eliminating answers one by one, come up with your answer, ensure you can support it from the text, and then aim and fire with confidence.

To go faster you must slow down

You have 1.25 minutes per question – that is approximately 12.5 minutes per passage. Practice papers under timed conditions so that you know you can comfortably succeed. Do you usually rush through things and end up getting answers wrong? Don’t try to race against the available time. Accept, practice, and master the art of calmly working through the paper: Your speed will automatically improve with every practice test. Make it your goal to finish the test and have extra time left over to review your answers. How do you do that?

Finish with extra time and double-check

By skim-reading effectively, you should be able to read a long passage within 1 minute.
Each question shouldn’t take more than 1 minute
This leaves a comfortable minute or so to revisit those challenging questions
Never leave any answers unmarked – circle any guesses on the exam paper so you know what you need to go back to.
Recheck your answers, but only revisit the ones you were unsure about.
Pro-tip: don’t bubble the answers question by question. This wastes a lot of time as you juggle between the two sheets, ending up distracted. Instead, tick all your answers in the question booklet, and then head over to the answer sheet to bubble. Once again – five at a time.
Check that you’ve bubbled the answers darkly and you have not left any gaps

Practice makes perfect

Always practice hard-copy papers rather than doing them online. Apply all strategies to figure out what works best for YOU. It may not work for someone else but you do you. Know how you should deal with the passage to save time during the actual test. And that takes practice.

Paying close attention to your mistakes

This is where most of us lose out on precious points. If you want a perfect/near-to-perfect score, you need to make sure that every single one of your weak points is covered.

The first thing to do is to simply practice – TONS of practice.
The second thing to do – the most important thing – is to understand your mistakes. Why did you miss that question? What held you back from answering correctly?

Review all the wrong answers and work on them. If you don’t improve on your mistakes, you’re simply going to repeat them over and over again. It would be frivolous to even practice if you don’t identify the issue.

Identify your challenges

image showing a gif of someone asking where do you stand? do you know your strengths and weaknesses when doing the SAT English?

Do you find it a chore to manage time? Do you spend hours reading and rereading texts? Before you begin prepping, it will help to know where you stand and work on those weaknesses.

The SAT has an element that is US-centric – take time to know the key dates in American history and the tenets of the Constitution.
Only attempt an SAT Practice Test once you have been taught techniques. Practicing blindly is fruitless.
Only practice on hard copy tests – that best mimic the exam itself
Practice papers to master strategy – then apply the time pressure. Don’t try to master both skills at the same time.
Become aware of your strengths and weaknesses and work on them, not necessarily just practicing paper after paper.

10. Keep on moving, don’t stop…

gif of someone saying we've done the best we can to prepare for the SATs

The reading sections are challenging, particularly the double passage. No matter how you feel you are doing, just go forward at a calm and steady pace. Even if you feel you misunderstood a passage or had to guess some answers, don’t let that dishearten you and dampen your hard work. The paper can always be done again … at this moment, do your best, move on, and continue with the rest of the passages. This can happen whilst practicing, or even during the real SAT. Life goes on, and the only way is to move ahead.

Preparing for your SATs is an important step on your ladder to university education. Make use of the strategies to perfect your SAT English score and you’ll be closer to that 800!

We often overlook the skills we have honed at some point for simple tasks such as brushing our teeth or slurping ramen with chopsticks.

For most of us, reading and writing in English, too, has been ingrained from an early age and we take these skills for granted. But imagine a life where you didn’t quite understand the language. What would you do? How would you read directions on a street sign? Or, an urgent storm announcement in the news telling you to stay indoors? Most importantly, what about Netflix?

It’s actually only when you are not a native English speaker, that you become acutely aware of the many obstacles that come in the way of fluency and the fundamental nature of English being a universal language that is crucial for globalisation and assimilation. Let’s consider a little more deeply the importance of reading and writing in English, specifically the essential domains of Speaking, Listening, Reading, and Writing.

Builds your soft skills

Writing is a crucial process that is challenging for both native as well as non-native English speakers. It involves a focus on content, organisation, purpose, audience, vocabulary, punctuation, spelling, and coherence. It also encourages thinking and learning, motivates conversation, and helps to lay out well-rounded thoughts for reflection. In a world of texting and messaging, writing is increasingly fundamental in our communication with others. It helps us to organise and refine our ideas by doing an internal edit of words and phrases by filtering and adjusting language to ensure a flawless delivery on paper or on a digital platform.

Reading and writing when practiced hand-in-hand, polishes our speech skills by improving the ability to construct and structure sentences as we jot them down. Writing practice also enriches our vocabulary as we try to use different words to avoid repetition. For these reasons, this has a positive effect on our soft skills too, aiding in university admission or a simple class presentation.

Reading improves writing skills

This goes without saying, but the more you read, the better you will write. Have you ever come across a person in the writing field who doesn’t read? It’s rare to find such a jewel who writes without being an avid reader. The benefits of reading are endless – you learn to use different methods of writing, with the use of better vocabulary as well as new ideas. Many novels and short stories are inspired by other novels and short stories. Browsing through any information helps stimulate the mind and can even trigger your imagination. Read and learn from the masters!

Improves your vocabulary

Reading newspapers, magazines, and novels teaches you not only language and grammar structure, but also exposes you to a myriad of words that you may previously not have heard of. And if you’re new to English, then picking up a newspaper or a simple book in English will do you wonders.

Despite this, learners of English still find the vocabulary to be one of the most challenging aspects. It is a complex language, you will come across many homophones. For example, look at ‘elevate’ and ‘alleviate’ – these words sound similar when spoken aloud but mean the complete opposite of one another. One way to combat this is to read as much as you can – repeated reading helps you to identify the contextual meaning of words. None of us can avoid the need to read effectively and understand the written word.

Aids you to explore and expand your horizons

Do you find yourself interested in the history of science and how it made its place in the world? Or are you into the current shift in diet to vegan and gluten-free foods? Being up-to-date with either of these requires a great deal of research that involves reading. To exemplify, having an inquisitive mind, you may want to look up omultiple platforms that speak about scientific fossils. You may even want to publish your own blog where you’re tracking your day-to-day nutrition and meals that support veganism. Both these mediums of reading and writing will help you embark upon a journey towards new knowledge. Exploration of new research areas will certainly help you increase your knowledge base, as well as create new space for more exciting information.

Helps you understand the beauty of language better

Just a few simple words can change the mood of a person. It can also affect your outlook on life, and soothe you in pain. Reading a nonfiction text, or a fantasy novel transforms you to a world outside your own. English classics like Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights, gothic novels like Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, and the more contemporary Ikigai by Hector Garcia – they all help you understand not just the beauty of language but also the impact it has on you.

Apart from reading, the act of writing also helps you embrace the language. Your mind works out different ways of putting words to good use. Every person has their own way of speaking, and writing being one’s way of self-expression makes every human being unique. You take this understanding with you wherever you go – as a student in a foreign country or as a new recruit in a company.

Gives you better opportunities

The more you read and the more you write – the better you get at this wonderful language. Reading helps you write better, and universities look for applicants that have a strong command of the English language. When writing a university essay, it is your finesse and fluency that makes or breaks the deal. Content is important but it only has an effect when it is written in the correct way.

Tests such as the TOEFL assess your reading and writing skills, on the basis of which many universities and colleges accept your application. If you perform well it increases your chances of getting into a well-reputed university, indirectly giving you better career opportunities as well as improving the quality of life.

“ According to the 2007 NEA study, nearly two-thirds of employers ranked reading skills as “very important” for high school graduates, and more than a third found that their applicants were deficient in their reading ability.”

So to sum it up – all your time spent on reading newspapers and writing essays for your school paper gives you ample practice in the English language. Children who love to read find school more enjoyable and literary readers are more likely to engage in community events than non-readers. Your ability to comprehend and converse well brings you closer to a global community and gives you a winning edge in various areas of life.

A good educational experience plays a pivotal role in a modern human being’s life. Examinations always come with a certain level of pressure. In many cases, this becomes a source of inspiration for people. However, we must keep in mind that this pressure can also lead to significant stress in students. As exam season is on the horizon, it is normal to feel a little jittery or frazzled. However, staying in a state of stress and not making an effort to resolve it will only make situations worse. One must work on indulging in practices and daily habits that will aid in staying calm, focused, and grounded. That’s the right state of mind to ace the final exams. Listed under are some methods you can use to manage exam stress.

Don’t take a full night’s sleep lightly.

"Image promoting the importance of prioritizing sleep during exams. A well-rested student enjoys enhanced focus, cognitive function, and overall well-being, crucial for optimal exam performance."

It is okay to have a messed up sleep schedule when you are a teenager, but what we are unaware of is that can cause many long-term problems. An eight-hour sleep is something you should not compromise on. The human body has a natural clock system in place called the Circadian Rhythm. This is a phenomenon where we are naturally in tune with the rising and setting of the sun and our energy levels stay accordingly. Even when exhausted, many youngsters struggle to fall asleep at night. Stress and your mobile phones are the culprits here. If you are in the habit of using your phone at night in your bed, stop it. Screens emit blue light which confuses our brain into thinking that it is morning time and we feel energized, unable to fall asleep. Cut out screen time at least two hours before going to bed. Instead, read a book or do a calming activity like some stretches to get the perfect sleep.

Taking breaks is good!

Sometimes we are so concerned about the upcoming exam that we go into an overworking mode and sit to study for hours. However, due to mental exhaustion, our brain doesn’t process any information that we consume and we end up forgetting it. To break this loop, remember to take mini breaks while studying for long hours. You can explore a method called the Pomodoro technique. Here, you study a concept for 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break, and repeat this process until you finish the subject. The mini breaks are an efficient way to help you de-stress. But avoid using social media during your Pomodoro break time. Try to do other calming activities such as taking a short walk around your room, listening to some music, getting up to fetch some water or lemonade, and other such things.

"Image illustrating the importance of taking breaks to alleviate exam stress. A student stepping away, engaging in relaxation activities, fostering mental well-being for improved focus and performance."

“The time to relax is when you don’t have time for it.”
Sydney J Harris

Nutrition affects everything.

The saying, “You are what you eat” is indeed true. When we are bloated with junk food, our brain functions slowly and we may even feel sleepy. This leads to a downward spiral of not being able to study and stressing about it later. When our diets are filled with junk food which includes only carbs and sugar, we are inviting doom. Instead focus on a balanced meal that involves fruits, dry fruits, vegetables, and pulses. Such foods give us stable levels of energy throughout the day which is essential for a successful study session. Apart from that avoid sugary and caffeine-loaded drinks at all costs.

Join or make a peer study group.

In moments of stress, it can be difficult to realize the fact that we are not alone. Many of our classmates might be going through the same levels of stress that are exerted by examinations. A great way to overcome this is to communicate freely with our peers and this will help us release some of the pressure. You can arrange group study sessions and give each other company while studying. However, all distractions should be avoided in group study sessions and a predetermined task must be completed by the end of it. Parent supervision is also necessary to keep you grounded in your studies and from being distracted.

Ask questions and clear your doubts.

Some topics and subject matter can be complicated and confusing. But with correct guidance and support it can be easily understood. Continued lack of clarity in a subject leads to brain fog and stress. This should be resolved by trying to get a clearer idea of the topic we are focussing on. Don’t back away from seeking academic help where you feel the need to. Joining the Young Scholarz exam prep class which is exclusively curated to help you through the exams is an excellent option.

Furthermore, the most vital thing to do is to believe in yourself. When being constantly faced with new challenges, we often forget to look back at how far we have come and how much we have already achieved. Given that you have prepared well, there should be no reason for you to worry. Therefore, when experiencing a negative thought, try to replace it with a positive one. For example, instead of thinking ‘If I don’t get at least 95 marks, I am a failure’, think ‘Whatever I get, I will be proud of myself and value how much I have already achieved’. You can do this!

“It’s not stress that kills us, it’s our reaction to it.”
Hans Selye

Hola! Annyeonghaseyo!

These are just a couple of the most popular ways of saying hello in Spanish and Korean, respectively. However, in all honesty, if you have gotten on the BTS bandwagon, or sung to the tunes of Bella Ciao, then you have learned much more than just the greetings in these languages by now! Learning a foreign language is useful for watching television shows and listening to exotic music. It has many more benefits beyond the realm of entertainment.

Shows like Emily in Paris convey how the French dislike it when you fail to speak their language in their country.

Although universal stereotypes might often point toward France as being Europe’s “most arrogant” country, the emotion is valid across every culture. Speaking the language of a foreign country will not only help you communicate with ease but you will also be welcomed with more warmth by the locals at the receiving end.

It’s not just about how you’re perceived and received; learning a foreign language shows your willingness to be part of a global community. As a bonus, it also increases your chances of attending academic and professional interviews by a good number! Read on to find out the many benefits of learning a foreign language.

Communicate. Connect.

Speaking with someone in their native language has been proven beneficial in more ways than you can imagine. You not only connect with them instantly – you become a part of their culture. You’re immediately accepted as a fellow local and break the barriers that make you foreign. What’s better? Learning a foreign language opens up a pool of potential amigos, and helps you express your thoughts, feelings, and desires with more ease and confidence.

Employers Love It

Image shows employees agreeing and shaking hands in a meeting

Many job applications today prefer candidates who are acquainted with languages more than one. The reason? Because most companies have clients outside their borders. If you can communicate with them in their language, you instantly build bonds that help strengthen company relations. If your resume boasts of fluency in a second language, your chances of employment are more in the marketplace.

It’s not just the ease of communication – knowing another language reflects your hard work and determination, showing that you’ve gone the extra mile to work on yourself and making it your USP. Even if you’ve applied for a small company that may or may not have a foreign client, being bilingual still sets you apart from your monolingual colleagues.

Cultural Appreciation

Image shows different ethnicities highlighting the importance of learning a foreign language

Studies show that children who learn another language become more open-minded, extend arms toward different cultures, and develop positive attitudes toward them. Learning a new language teaches you about their culture which includes food, clothing, lifestyles, festivals, traditions, customs, and values. What’s better? Breaking language barriers also breaks the prejudices that come with them.

Before you learn another language, it is a must to learn your mother tongue first. Being a crucial part of your identity, you must cherish and embrace it. Eugene Stanton, who has traveled to over 125 countries, has written a book called “Our Beautiful World”. He says, “If we were to lose our tongue, for example, if we were to grow up in a country which is not our own… in my opinion, we would be losing a part of ourselves.”

Learning a new language not only helps you appreciate the essence of their culture but also your own culture. The brain automatically begins to compare and evaluate the positive and negative attributes of your culture and a foreign one. This explains why studying another language improves your reading, writing, and listening skills.

Broader Perspective

There is no limit to attaining knowledge. The more you increase your cultural base, the more you’re able to absorb, and you can look at things with a fresh new perspective. Understanding and appreciating different cultures helps you look at the world from a different perspective. It’s one that you can apply not just towards other people but towards your attitude and your people.

One study in particular was conducted where participants speaking two different languages – German and English – were asked to describe the video clips played for them. One group made a short brief description that was limited and one-dimensional. The other group explained the action in relation to a place or time, thus proving how different languages make you think differently. Now imagine, what if you knew both German and English. Wouldn’t that widen your horizon?

Confidence Booster

Imagine you’re in a workplace outside your country. You don’t speak their language and you always feel like they’re slyly sniggering at you, talking about you, or cracking jokes about you. Even if they aren’t, you feel a lingering shadow of a mockery cloud over you. Fast-forward to the time where you speak their language – wouldn’t you feel confident? You’re no longer in the dark and can join the banter. Which scenario seems ideal to you? The second one, we’re sure!

The mastery of a new skill like learning a new language is one of the most effective ways of improving one’s self-confidence. It forms a link between you and new people with which you can form a lasting friendship. You don’t feel judged because you’d be appreciated for your efforts at conversing with them. It means you’re stepping outside your comfort zone and you’re putting yourself out there.

Improves Cognitive Skills

Your language skills are key to your mind and they reflect your cognitive abilities and functions. Studies show a positive correlation between the length of time devoted to learning a language and cognitive development. Learning a second language teaches your brain to analyze and process different linguistic structures. This skill can be applied to learning any language – your brain identifies techniques behind learning a language and breaks them down into a series of steps.

While acquiring a new language, your brain retains muscle memory. It will understand how different languages are structured and increasingly become aware of syntax, grammar, and sentence structure. These are what makes a language unique. Your brain experiences mental benefits from controlling languages the same way your body benefits from physical exercise. Your mental flexibility plays a big role in the later stages of your life, as bilinguals and multilinguals experience slower cognitive aging, and, as research tells us, debilitating conditions such as Alzheimer’s can get delayed by 5 years at least.

Higher Attention Span

Not only does a new language improve your memory but it also improves your attention span, thereby challenging you to focus and develop problem-solving skills.

Toggling from one speech to another encourages your multitasking skills, and being bilingual, you tend to score higher on standardized tests than monolingual students, especially in subjects that involve vocabulary, reading, and maths. Bilingual people tend to be more logical, and rational, develop better decision-making skills, and have a better perception of their surroundings.

Builds Creative Thinking Skills

Imagine talking fast in your native language – you can’t remember that one word – instead you replace it by lending a word from another language. If you’re Ross from Friends, you’d probably make a mess of the meaning! But otherwise, it adds a touch of creativity and exoticism to your speech.

Image shows Rosh Yeller from friends talking about Unagi

This helps improve your skills in divergent thinking, in turn increasing your ability to identify multiple answers and solutions to a problem. Multilingual speakers are also more creative than the monos, according to researchers. Psychologist Anatoliy Kharkhurin has even authored a book called Multilingualism and Creativity, in which he explores the relationship between the two. Studying a foreign language not only improves your ability to solve problems and think more logically but also encourages you to experiment with new words and phrases.

Remember – no matter how old you are, you can always begin a new language-learning experience that helps you grow as a person! Perhaps, even inspire someone else to do the same.

If you’re looking to learn French, Spanish, German, or Hindi we have excellent language teachers who can guide you! Please get in touch.

I don’t have the time to fret about a mock exam while I am already preparing for the actual one. Is this a thought that crosses your mind often? Allow us to present a fresh perspective of why mock exams are important for you. We present three reasons why you should be sincere about them. The format of a mock exam is identical to that of the actual exam. It serves as the primary means of practice for the students. Let’s explore in detail how mock tests can prove to be fruitful in your academic experience.

#1 Familiarize you with the actual exam requirements

To begin with, the structure and design of the IB as well as the IGCSE mock exam is made to help the student get familiar with the actual exam. In this way, these exams help you to prepare for something unexpected. Once we are comfortable with the exam setting and have experience with how things work, the actual exam becomes less daunting. Conditioning our brain to be comfortable in an unknown scenario of the mock test takes away the fear of taking the board exams for the first time.

Everything we do is practice for something greater than where we currently are. Practice only makes for improvement.
– Les Brown

#2 Show us our areas of improvement and strengths

Furthermore, these can be prep sessions that enlighten us about our strengths and weaknesses in every subject. Analyze mock test results to identify areas for improvement, enabling targeted study and enhancing overall preparation for success. In addition, this introspection of our strong and weak points will help us form clear and precise questions. This will aid in our tutoring experiences.

Image: Motivational message - 'Believe in Yourself' - essential mindset for effective preparation during mock exams.

#3 Get comfortable with sitting for an exam

Finally, there are many new changes introduced by the IB and IGCSE curricula every year. It becomes necessary to sincerely appear in the mock exams as they are a part of training for the upcoming exam. Although It would be easy to argue that many of these goals might be achieved without formal exams we are mistaken in thinking that. The formal place and time setting of the mock exam is what makes it so integral. The environment of this mock exam is that of a real one and this rehearsal leads us to identify how we react to many factors surrounding us.

Diligent students, who’ve invested effort in syllabus preparation, are certain to reap the benefits of mock exams. Study well and ace those mocks! If you’d like support, contact us – we offer mock exams and paper marking for all IB DP subjects and IGCSE subjects.

“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.”
Benjamin Franklin

Being a teacher is easily one of the most underrated, and often underpaid professions and this is quite unjustly so. Their task is so much more important than one may realise and if it were not for teachers’ sheer hard work and passion, most students would not be able to achieve the goals they aspire to.

A well-skilled, knowledgeable, and experienced teacher makes all the difference to your appreciation of a subject. A teacher who is passionate about their subject will inspire you often with an interest that will last a lifetime! Hats off to all teachers … but which hats are they wearing? Teachers coach many different subjects, but this is particularly key to those who teach STEM as this requires a broad skill set.

But First,

What is STEM?

STEM is an acronym that stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths. The other variations include STEAM – where A stands for Artistic Design and STREAM – Where R stands for Reading.

STEM is a step ahead of traditional schooling, where the aforementioned subjects are taught individually. STEM explores interdisciplinary connections by teaching these subjects together so that students learn to coordinate and synchronise skills gaining a new perspective on traditional thinking. The sciences are intricately connected to maths, for example, integrating physics and mechanical reasoning with mathematical formulas can lead to an understanding of engineering and technology.

STEM education not only teaches students to build new skills in the fields of robotics and coding, but it also teaches them competencies such as problem-solving, innovation, creativity, and other lifelong skills. Take the Tokyo Coding Club, for example, who provides live, online, and one-to-one as well as group classes for STEM courses that will keep you hooked from the beginning to the end.

How Is STEM Different From Other Methods of Learning?

“It’s not that I’m smart, it’s just that I stay with problems longer”.
Albert Einstein

Would you rather attend a lecture on how to build a website, or actually sit at a desk and learn to build one?

STEM education is not confined to the boundaries of a textbook, it takes you into the real world giving you hands-on experience, to think out of the box in contrast with more traditional learning systems which rely on increasing knowledge without much practical engagement.

When you put a problem in front of a STEM student they can apply cross-subject skills sets to problem solve through exploration and discovery, to create through innovation rather than only historic knowledge.

In a world increasingly driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI), having a STEM education increases your career prospects across all faculties paving the way forward for a new generation of thinkers.

So…how do you choose the right teacher?

What Makes a Great STEM Teacher?

All teachers have wonderful qualities, but STEM teachers particularly are at the cutting edge of shaping future generations and world changers – they need a few additional skills to ensure they can inspire that creative spark within. When looking for a course or teacher, look for teachers who have some of the following qualities:

They enjoy what they teach

Teachers should be learners, practicing what they preach. Though obvious, this is one of the most important points to keep in mind. Before you begin to teach, you must begin to learn. A STEM teacher must learn the subjects thoroughly before entering the class. Understanding the basics and putting them to practice before training somebody else will always be mutually beneficial. Patiently exploring both mistakes and successes is part of being a good teacher, this helps students on their learning journey but also helps teachers to evolve and adapt to refine their teaching style.

Patience and listening skills

One of the most important virtues of a teacher, patience is key to teaching well and teaching effectively. Different students have different speeds of grasping information and learning. Your teacher may have to simply wait for you to complete that circuit board, or be patient while you try to grasp the multifaceted nature of the subject. A good STEM teacher needs to be a good listener, and be open to hearing your doubts and listen to you with understanding while you narrate your struggles.

Facilitates the learning process

If you make a mistake, and you’re corrected while making it, you won’t learn anything from it. An ideal STEM teacher will let you make a mistake and figure out how to rectify it unless you’re sticking a finger into a socket! Any sort of interference with your exploration journey will hinder your learning curve – and you will probably repeat the same mistake, without realizing where you went wrong.

Success often comes after a myriad of failures; such challenges are to be embraced, and not be embarrassed about, and a good teacher must encourage an independent learning process.

So next time you feel vexed at your teacher for letting you spend all that time calculating the wrong formula, know and trust that they know better.

Adapts to different learning styles

A good teacher will evolve along with their student, and this is especially true for STEM teachers as our understanding of concept relationships is ever-growing. This is one area where students may even know more than their teachers and it’s important to understand the two-way street learning method. Students may be equally innovative coming up with novel solutions and every new problem requires a new solution.

Look for a teacher with whom you can communicate well and share your ideas – a teacher that is part of your learning experience and process.

Takes you outside the classroom

Learning takes a new path when you’ve put your books aside and gotten into the field. A real-life mathematical problem will teach you much more than one solved on paper. An ideal STEM teacher will make sure you step outside the classroom and bring the theories taught to you to life.

When you’re taught a simple acid-base reaction, you may or may not retain it. You may not even understand it. But if you’re shown how acid and base mix together to form a salt, like potassium permanganate, and water, you’ll remember the purple-hued magic happening in front of your eyes.

At Young Scholarz, we’ve collaborated with Tokyo to provide classes bearing in mind that the end goal is to grow – not to just learn static content.

Provides you with a unique learning experience

Not all five fingers are the same. Similarly, not all students work the same way. A good STEM teacher will come to appreciate where you excel and where you lack the skills. Humans in general excel in one of three types of intellect – practical, creative, and analytical intelligence.

As STEM uses all three in one or the other way, your teacher should know where you need attention and where you need praise. By providing opportunities to explore your strengths and weaknesses, you may naturally lean towards the subject where your key interests lie. Our STEM classes do just that, we specialize in one-on-one teaching so that you get the attention you require!

Is up-to-date with developments in the STEM industry

As in any other subject, a great STEM teacher is required to be well informed with the latest developments in the relevant fields of sciences, mathematics, and technology.

Reading the news and updates regarding a new scientific find, or the development of a new vaccine helps the teacher design new methods of teaching. Following top leaders and powerful influencers from the STEM industry can help one gain insight into the newest happenings as well. Just as every book has a new edition, your class plan too must be constantly updated and changed in line with the current scientific progress, which is then integrated into classroom learning.

In a Nutshell

“Millions saw the apple fall, but Newton asked why.”
Bernard Baruch

STEM learning is the next step in the global educational revolution, and having an excellent teacher to learn from and support us through our hurdles is just what we need to build a bright and promising future for the generation ahead.

Good teachers not only teach us, but teach themselves first, and are on a continuous journey of self-improvement. Choose well and do justice to their effort, time, and hard work – together we can pave the way ahead!

Final Exam. Check. SAT. Check. Subject to major in. Check. You think you have it all figured out, but wait. There’s more. No matter how well you’ve scored, or how excellent a student you are, it boils down to this – the University essay. This is the only place where you can tell your story, and that’s what the college wants to hear. Tests are generic – they question your capacity to think. But your essay represents you – as a person – a living, breathing, passion-filled, person. Let’s look at some tips on how to write a winning university essay.

And now that many colleges have become test-optional, the pressure is even more, because you cannot lean on your excellent abilities to study.

Consider this as your business pitch with you as the product – why should you be one of the chosen ones? What’s your unique selling point? This is where the challenge begins.

Focus on these tips below to help you come up with a killer University essay for admission to your dream college.

Read the instructions

In all the excitement and overwhelm, you might easily skip through this part. Just as unique as every student is, so is the college that you’re applying to. Different institutions will have different expectations from you, so please read the instructions provided before you begin working on your essay. Often overlooked, this is the most important aspect of your Common App essay.

How many words/characters to write, what’s the purpose of your essay, whom you are writing to, and the title. Give the instructions a thorough read before hitting the keyboard. Failure to adhere to the word limit will raise a red flag and have the admissions officer question if the student’s inability to follow instructions makes them fit for the program at all.

Know the university and course requirements

Research the university and the college that you’re applying to – set the foundation before you build a house. You’ll get a much clearer idea about what to write and what to include in your essay.

What is the university’s culture like, their alumni, and their specialties? What are the skills required for the course you’re keen on?

List down the core competencies of the course, and address them meticulously in your essay. Additionally, be it the skill of written communication, or critical thinking, show that you know how to apply these by using them to attract the reader.

Plan your essay

Once you know what you want to say, make an essay plan! In the sea of information, you may not have a clue about where to start, which essays to look at, and how to formulate your ideas. No one wants to read an unplanned ‘Eton mess’.

Having a skeletal structure of the main points of focus will help you form a cohesive plan and give you direction. Sticking to an essay plan will help you arrange your thoughts and ideas logically, and keep you on track, especially with a limited word count.

Ensure

– You address but do not need to actually answer the prompt – it’s not a question
– You start with an interesting hook, that makes the application officer want to know about you
– You lead the essay through genuine experiences and illustrate that your essay is specifically targeted at the college/course of interest
– You do not write a rigid 3 body paragraph essay
– The essay should flow to demonstrate how you have evolved and will seamlessly continue to do so at the university of your choice
– You do not conclude just by repeating the introduction of your essay. Add something thoughtful showing that university life is the next natural step in your progress.
– To only brief through everything you’ve mentioned in the essay

Be authentic

Look to express yourself and who you really are. You want to show you are the best fit for what the university is looking for. You may read sample essays written by others – but they are not YOU! Read essays, articles, and blogs to add depth to your perspectives but do not lose your own voice when you write. The college you’ve applied to isn’t interested to see what other people have written in your essay. They’re looking for well-rounded individuals who are ready for the experience that their university can provide. Make sure your essay has you as the narrator, with your opinions and experiences are woven into it. Express your thoughts, beliefs, passion, and how this program would help you reach your goals as well as how you can contribute to the faculty in return.

Come up with an interesting introduction

Remember, you’re one among thousands of applicants. Make yourself stand out. The admissions officers will go through your essay very briefly because they’ve got so many to read! One way to catch their attention is to write a compelling introduction.

Use an anecdote, a story – an opening hook – that will keep them hooked for the next few hundred words of your essay. Choose an anecdote, viewpoint, or perspective that brings out your personality showing just how unique you are.

Having said that, don’t spend too much time perfecting your intro right at the get-go. Often, you may not know what to write until after you’ve finished the essay and will come up with a much better intro once you have written the whole essay. Your main focus should be the core of the title.

Read – Review – Revise – Repeat

You may feel you have written your life’s masterpiece, but don’t take your own word for it. Have it read by a range of people including parents, university counselors, and other unrelated adults. Having varied perspectives through fresh pairs of eyes helps you to iron out illogical flow and add details to make your essay complete. Make those much-needed revisions and edits.

Once you’ve finished your essay, have it proofread by an educator or mentor for grammar, word count, and final technical revision. At Young Scholarz, we can help you to improve your writing skills and help submit that killer essay that stands out above the rest!

The takeaway

The university essay is a preview of your personality, and a great opportunity to showcase your talents and achievements. Don’t rely on anyone else to direct your essay – you must be you! Admission officers will very easily see through a fake persona. Good research is at the core of a good essay, showing a genuine passion for the course and university. Take guidance on essay writing techniques and brainstorming of ideas but don’t let anyone else tell you who you need to be.

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