Pretoria - The Gauteng Education Department says all systems are in place at schools to ensure that the Grade 12 preliminary examinations run smoothly.
Grade 12 learners will write the prelim exams, which start tomorrow, less than 53 days before the start of the final examinations.
The prelim exams are very important as they serve as a practice session for learners to experience the examination conditions that they will face in the final examinations.
The papers set in the prelim exams cover the entire syllabus and are expected to be of a similar standard expected in the final examinations. The results also contribute to a percentage of the school based assessment mark.
The department urged learners to set up small study groups to support each other with revision and take advantage of the different study groups and camps that offer matric support.
"During the exams, we encourage learners to have sufficient rest the night before, have all the necessary material (calculator, pens, pencils, erasers, etc), read the entire paper, read instructions, and plan their time carefully. We also encourage learners to verify their exam registration details," the department said.
In assisting learners preparing for the exams and improve the matric pass rate, the provincial department introduced the Secondary School Improvement Programme (SSIP) in key subjects and many learners are attending extra classes during weekends and the school holidays.
The classes focus on critical content areas of the syllabus and examination preparation.
"We have provided learners with past examination papers and model answers, the last few SSIP sessions focused on revision for the prelim examinations. We trust that learners will prepare adequately and take the prelim examinations seriously as this experience will help them realise some of their shortcomings and will help them prepare for the final examinations."
The department also urged families to be supportive during this time by making sure that their sons and/or daughters have a quiet corner for study, is relieved from household chores and has constant love and care.
