Students and parents often ask for advice as to which courses students should select to obtain the best results. In asking this question many people believe that there are certain courses which are ‘scaled up’ and that by studying these courses they will automatically receive bonus marks.
It is possible to score good marks in any subject if students have the ability to score those marks in the first place. One does not get good marks just by enrolling in one of the so-called ‘hard’ courses.
The system is such that two students of equal academic ability who take different sets of courses and perform to their ability will receive a similar Australian Tertiary Admission Rank.
The question is often asked, ‘Is there anything a student can do in order to obtain the best possible results?’ The answer is simple and logical: Students should take courses in which they have an interest and an ability and which will best suit their future needs.
That is, they should be sure to take courses which can provide them with skills and knowledge that enable them to enter whatever field they might wish to in the future.
Students need an awareness of themselves and their interests and abilities. This awareness is what makes for good choices and decisions. Students should take advice from those who know them well. All courses should challenge students appropriately to learn and build in their confidence and competence.
In making their choices they should ask for advice from their Careers Adviser, Teachers, current Year 11/12 students, Leaders of Learning, prospective employers or the Director of Curriculum Administration.
Students who wish to proceed with tertiary studies should check the entry requirements for the various institutions. They should check any prerequisites and assumed knowledge in the University Admissions Centre website or booklet.