Main Task 1: Scenarios
Pupils read each of the scenarios below and discuss how they would best support / advise the student with their situation.
A printable pdf is available for students to use and make notes: Transitions to University - Lesson 4 Printout
Scenario A
Jess is in their first year at university. They’re doing really well with their studies in English Language and Linguistics, receiving good grades in all their assignments. However, Jess’s life mainly consists of studying – when they’re not in a lecture or a seminar, they’re in the library studying. Their flatmates have asked them to go out to fun events many times, but Jess worries that it will take time away from studying, so always says no. Jess is starting to feel really worn out, and also a bit lonely. What do you think Jess should do?
Scenario B
Jack is studying history at university, and has a midterm essay due. He’s read and re-read the guidance that the tutor has offered, but just can’t make sense of it, and therefore is really stuck and running out of time before the deadline! He’s asked a few friends who are on the same course, but they’ve each told him something a bit different. What do you think Jack should do?
Scenario C
Aalia has been having a great time since she got to university; she’s been loving her English literature course, and has joined a load of societies, such as the Bengali Society, the Capoeira Club, and the Poetry Society. She’s been keeping up good attendance in her lectures and seminars and has been throwing herself into all the social activities run by the various clubs. This means, however, that she hasn’t had a lot of time to keep on top of her weekly studies and is now feeling a bit panicked given that exams are just around the corner! What can you suggest to Aalia to avoid this end-of-semester exam stress in future?
Scenario D
Emilia is loving her biochemistry lectures, as she finds them really engaging. Whenever she goes to the lecture, she tries to write down every single word that the lecturer says, as it all seems really important. She also tries to read every single thing on the reading list each week, both the “essential” and “recommended” texts, so that she feels fully prepared for lectures. However, she’s starting to feel really overwhelmed by her studies recently, especially as the workload is starting to increase. What can you suggest to Emilia, to help her manage all her tasks more effectively?