So, you’ve gotten your GCSE results and the needed grades to continue to your chosen A-levels. Excellent news! But are you prepared for what comes next?
“It’s a big jump from GCSE to A-level”
So they say; these are words that have been drumming in your ears and heart since you aced the GCSEs, but what does it truly mean? It is “really hard,” they say, but is it? Many had come before you and aced it. Your teachers also understand that it could take some getting used to during the period.
For the sake of those new to these terms, let’s clear the air a little bit on what we are talking about.
What are GCSEs?
The General Certificate of Secondary School (GCSEs) are subject-based academic qualifications usually taken by students in Years 10 and 11, around the ages 14 to 16 years but can be taken by anyone.
Your GCSE performance is typically a reliable predictor of how well you’ll perform in A-level or other advanced coursework.
What is the A-Level?
The A-level or “Advanced level” is also a subject-based qualification exam usually taken by students in Years 12 and 13 around the ages of 16 to 18 years.
You need the GCSEs to take your A-levels, and in turn, you need to pass your A-level subjects to apply to your university of choice.
What subjects do I take in my A-levels?
This is another mind blogger for some students, but truly it is in part up to you and also up to the requirements stated by your university of choice. It’s no pressure. Give yourself the time, do the research, and make the right choices. Never pick subjects because of your friends!
Now, with all of that out of the way, let’s take a deep dive into what facing this “transition” or “jump” means and tips on how to successfully navigate your way through the period.
So, what do we mean by the “jump”?
Heavy workload
The first step was cutting down from 12 to 3 or 4 subjects for the A-levels. Next would be to take on the extra work of deeper studies for them. Isn’t it ironic to think fewer subjects demand more work? Your teachers would expect more from you as you focus on your chosen areas.
More difficult
You may have chosen your favorite courses for the A-level, but your course content is sadly more difficult. This common report from most, however, could be based on the type of content. Students taking up science-based and essay-based subjects find it harder because they require long study hours. You may need to be devoted, focused, and resilient to get better grades than you did in your GCSEs. This is crucial!
Responsibility
“With great power comes great responsibility.”
This might seem like a silly analogy to use here, but it makes sense to me.
Passing the GCSEs implies that you’re not just a year older in the educational system but probably also a year older. As you grow, much more is expected of you. The same would apply to A-level. Your physical teachers would no longer hold you by the hand or help draw up your schedules. There would be no reminders and no punishments when you fall short. You must step up, take responsibility for yourself, and do the work.
Autonomy
You’ll be able to manage your time more independently in Years 12 and 13. Students who use examples other than those in the syllabus will receive the highest scores. To give yourself a deeper comprehension of your subject, independent external research is crucial. These include locating pertinent case studies and proof for current works of writing.
Analysis
The GCSE focuses on learning a lot of material. In addition to memorizing the material for the A-Level, you must also build written arguments and generate insights. To get better grades at A-level, it is essential to analyze case studies and assess various viewpoints. Developing these analytical and evaluative abilities could take some time but are helpful for further study because they are also applicable in universities.
Tips on how to successfully transition from GCSE to A-Level
Be prepared mentally
Experiencing this change for yourself may be the only way you can believe it. Some have likened it to the switch from being pregnant to having a baby. Though it may not be as extreme as that, it’ll probably be one of the biggest shifts you’ll ever experience in your life.
To scale through, you’ll need to psych yourself up; mentally prepare yourself to open up to change, and embrace the challenges and personal growth it will present.
Be hardworking from the start
Do the work as it comes. If you were one to procrastinate before now, you’ve got some unlearning and relearning. A-levels require a lot of work almost daily. Do you want to come out at the end of two years with good grades? Doing the work from day 1 is your golden ticket.
You might say I’m not so good at working on my own or drawing up routines to help me keep up. You could take on courses at Study mind, which would help you with a tutor a structure, and would also help you ace that exam.
Be organized
The organization is going to be important moving forward. You’ll need to monitor due dates carefully, keep your notes organized (and comprehensive), and carry all necessary supplies, including textbooks and stationery, with you at all times.
Walking around with huge textbooks may not be up your wheelhouse. Subjects like A-level biology and A-level chemistry are known for having big books. Luckily, Study mind would provide you with all your study materials online and well-explained. Study mind chemistry tutors have been called one of the best out there.
Get help as many times as possible
If you’re having trouble understanding a concept or a particular lesson, you need to solve the issue right away. Don’t wait until revision time to make sure you comprehend the entire syllabus; if you work through these issues day by day as you go along, you’ll save a ton of time and worry and improve your grades. Study mind would prove invaluable in this regard and would be available to answer any questions.
Use practice questions
I’ve already spoken about the tutors and coursework from Study mind. Another thing the platform could help you with are practice questions to help you revise the most important parts of a topic and subject before moving on to the next.
Would you like to start Year 12 the right way? All set for work and ready to face college with your head held high in all confidence? If yes, check out Study mind and book a call. We are ready to listen to your needs and help you achieve your desires confidently.