The ever-growing use of technology within primary classroom settings is inevitable in our modern-day society and while digital resources can be used effectively it also has the potential to limit opportunities for students to actively engage in working mathematically and focus on learning with overbearing stimulants and distractions. Research has shown excessive or unrefined use of ICT can negatively impact mathematical learning through distractions and time wasting. it has been proven that technology often encourages speed and getting the answer over reasoning and process reducing engagement in and development of essential working-out strategies. This contradicts the NESA syllabus’ stressed importance of working mathematically as students skip necessary steps with the goal being the answer. Online math tools such as Mathletics provide students with instant feedback stating if the students answer was correct or incorrect, they also provide working out tools and methods of finding an answer however students rarely utilise these tools preferring to just complete the work as fast as possible. This shift away from procedural fluency and conceptual understanding has significant repercussions on the value and effectiveness of mathematics learning by limiting the depth of students knowledge. Technology has also been proven to drastically reduce attention span which is likely the cause of students disinterest in true learning and deeper understanding when using ICT. Often in classrooms when using technology in a lesson if students finish early the teacher will allow them to do some other tasks still using technology, which appeals as a reward and incentive to move quickly through work. Technology should be purposeful and strategically integrated into learning practices rather than a convenience. Students, particularly those in primary school, should engage in manual working-out and reasoning when completing mathematical problems and should turn to digital tools only when checking their work or extending their understanding. This ensures that technology is a supportive device rather than it continually replacing cognitive processes.

Kaeley Pitt

Every material you see around you, including the air you breathe and the water you drink, is made up of chemicals interacting in different ways. Studying chemistry gives you the chance to understand those interactions and see the world from a completely different perspective. It turns everyday things like cooking food, rust forming on metal or fireworks lighting up the sky into questions that science can explain.

One of the reasons Chemistry is such an important subject in high school is because it explains how substances are built and how they change. From atoms and molecules to chemical reactions, chemistry shows how matter behaves and why different materials have the properties they do. Once you begin learning about bonding, reactions and energy changes, you start to see that many ordinary things around you are the result of complex chemical processes.

Chemistry also helps you develop useful problem-solving skills. You learn how to analyse information, follow logical steps and understand how different variables affect outcomes. These skills are valuable not only in science but in many other areas of study.

Most importantly, chemistry helps you understand the materials and processes that shape the world around you, from medicines and fuels to environmental solutions and new technologies.

Nabil Harrar

Routine plays a powerful role in effective tutoring, especially for students who may feel overwhelmed or unsure of where to begin. Having a consistent structure in each session helps create a sense of stability and allows students to focus more on learning rather than adjusting to new expectations each time.

A simple routine can make a big difference. Starting with a quick recap of the previous lesson helps refresh memory and reinforces learning. It also gives students the opportunity to ask questions about anything they were unsure of. From there, moving into new content feels more natural, as it builds on what they already know.

Routine also helps with time management. When students become familiar with how a session flows, they are more likely to stay on track and use their time effectively. They begin to understand that there is a time for learning new material, a time for practice, and a time for reflection.

Another benefit is reduced anxiety. For many students, especially those who struggle with confidence, knowing what to expect can make them feel more comfortable. This sense of predictability creates a safe learning environment where they are more willing to participate and take risks.

Importantly, routine does not mean the session has to feel repetitive or boring. Within the structure, there is still room for variety, creativity, and flexibility depending on the student’s needs.

Demetria Koutavas

Completing Business Studies during the HSC and then relearning it through tutoring has given me a new perspective on the syllabus and its relevance. While the course provides a strong foundation in traditional business concepts, such as operations, marketing, finance, and human resources, it does not always reflect the rapidly evolving nature of today’s business environment.

In tutoring sessions, I often notice that students engage most when content feels applicable to the real world. However, many case studies and examples remain rooted in older, more traditional business models. In contrast, today’s business landscape is increasingly shaped by digital platforms, social media marketing, and entrepreneurial ventures. Students are growing up in a world where starting a small online business or building a personal brand is more accessible than ever, yet this reality is not always adequately represented in the syllabus.

Revising the syllabus to incorporate modern business practices would not only increase engagement but also better prepare students for future pathways. Including topics such as digital entrepreneurship, influencer marketing, and globalised e-commerce would make the course more dynamic and relevant. As I tutor, I notice that when students can connect theory to real-world applications, their understanding deepens and their confidence improves.

With thoughtful updates, it can better equip students with the skills and mindset needed to navigate an increasingly complex and innovative business world.

Cara Charalambous

Every living thing you see, including yourself, is the result of billions of years of biological processes. Studying biology gives you the chance to understand those processes and see the world in a completely new way. It turns everyday things like breathing, eating or even getting sick into questions that science can explain.

One of the reasons biology is such an important subject is because it helps you understand life at multiple levels. From the tiny cells that make up living organisms to entire ecosystems that support life on Earth, biology shows how everything is connected. Once you begin learning about genetics, evolution and ecosystems, you start to realise that the natural world is far more complex and fascinating than it first appears.

Biology also helps you develop useful skills that go beyond the classroom. You learn how to think critically, analyse evidence and interpret data. These skills are valuable whether you continue into science, medicine or completely different fields.

Most importantly, biology helps you appreciate life itself. From microscopic organisms to complex ecosystems, biology reveals how incredible living systems really are.

Nabil Harrar

Time management is an important skill students of all ages need to understand and apply. Time management is the ability to plan how much time is spent on different activities so the entire task can be completed within a set time frame.

Students need to learn how they can balance their time so they can maximise the marks they receive. They will learn that if they spend too much time completing one task, it will have a flow on effect and will also impact their ability to complete other tasks. They will learn how the mark allocation will help them determine how much time they spend on each question or task.

Time management is crucial for all students to learn from a young age. In primary school, students get introduced to this idea when they have to complete a school task in a set amount of time. Students learn not to spend too long on a question they are stuck on as they may not finish the test. Students learn to keep an eye on the clock so they can effectively manage their time. They are also taught to leave enough time at the end of a test to check over the work. This allows them to make sure they’ve completed each question and it gives them a chance to fix any spelling or grammar mistakes. Throughout primary school students can practice their time management skills completing class activities. They can also practice these skills under exam conditions when they take NAPLAN, ICAS, OC and selective school tests. Students in high school also practice these skills when they complete exams and tests.

For students, effective time management is an essential skill as it helps them balance their homework, study, personal life and extracurricular activities. When students manage their time well, they are able to complete assignments and homework on time, prepare for exams, attend co curricular activities and still have time social activities.

Overall, time management is a crucial skill all students need to learn and apply.

Ashley Cohen

Parents often praise their child for how smart they are but is this pround moment unknowingly causing harm to the students abilities to learn. Students thrive when there efforts and dilligents are praised not only their intelligence. Praising effort encourages learners to understand that abilities can be developed through practice. When teachers and parents focus on how hard a student worked rather than how “smart” they are it makes success feel within their control.

Labeling students as “smart” can create pressure. They may start to fear failure and worry that mistakes will disprove that label. They might also avoid challenging tasks and stick only to what feels safe, this will cause them to learn less. However when effort is praised, students become much more willing to try new strategies, and learn from their mistakes. They understand that mistakes are a very normal part of the learning process and does not reflect their intellegence.

Students who are praised for persistence learn to push through difficulties instead of giving up. For example, saying “I can see how much time you put into solving that problem” is far more motivating than “You’re so smart.” The first highlights a behavior they can repeat, while the second focuses on something they cannot control.

In the long run, students who are praised for effort develop stronger confidence, better problem solving skills, and a healthier attitude toward challenges. This mindset prepares them not only for academic achievement but also for real-world situations where persistence and adaptability are essential.

Olivia Moustakis

One of the biggest misconceptions students have is that success comes from feeling motivated. It sounds logical. If you feel driven, you work harder and get better results. The problem is that motivation is unreliable. Some days you have it, most days you do not. This is why consistency matters far more.

Consistency is about showing up even when you do not feel like it. It is doing a small amount of work every day instead of relying on bursts of last minute effort. For example, studying maths for 20 minutes daily will almost always outperform cramming for three hours the night before a test. The brain retains information better when it is revisited regularly, and stress levels stay lower.

Another advantage of consistency is that it builds discipline. Discipline is a skill, just like solving equations or writing essays. The more you practice sticking to a routine, the easier it becomes. Over time, tasks that once felt difficult start to feel automatic. This reduces procrastination because you are no longer relying on how you feel in the moment.

Consistency also helps identify weaknesses earlier. If you engage with your subjects regularly, you quickly notice what you do not understand. This gives you time to ask for help, revise properly, and improve before assessments. In contrast, cramming often hides gaps in understanding until it is too late.

This does not mean you need to study for hours every day. In fact, shorter and more focused sessions are usually more effective. The key is to make your effort regular and intentional. Even on busy days, doing a small amount keeps the habit alive.

In the long run, students who are consistent outperform those who rely on motivation alone. Motivation may get you started, but consistency is what actually gets you results.

Samin Hossain

Often when students have back to back exams and study, the first thing to be sacrificed is sleep. When preparing for exams, many students believe that sacrificing sleep in favour of extra study time will improve their results. While this may seem productive in the short term, research consistently shows that sleep is essential for effective learning, memory, and overall academic performance.

Sleep plays a critical role in memory consolidation, the process by which the brain strengthens and stores new information. After a day of studying, the brain uses sleep to organise and embed what has been learned, transferring it from short-term to long-term memory. Without adequate sleep, this process is disrupted, making it significantly harder to recall information during exams.

In addition to memory, sleep directly impacts concentration and cognitive function. A well-rested student is better able to focus, think critically, and solve problems under pressure. Whereas, sleep deprivation can lead to slower reaction times, reduced attention span, and increased likelihood of errors. This can be particularly detrimental in exam settings, where clarity and accuracy are needed.

Sleep also affects emotional regulation and stress levels. During exam periods, students often experience heightened anxiety, and lack of sleep can intensify these feelings. Getting enough rest helps maintain a balanced mood, allowing students to approach their studies and exams with a clearer, calmer mindset.

Therefore, establishing a consistent sleep routine, especially in the lead-up to exams can significantly enhance both learning efficiency and performance, so sleep shouldn’t be sacrificed when in exams but prioritised.

Jessica Ciappara

Observing Emilia teach distance, area, and perimeter was useful because it reinforced a few things I have picked up through tutoring, without really introducing anything forced or overly complicated. What I took from the lesson was how much of a difference it makes when a tutor stays clear and consistent with the way they explain each concept.
Watching the class reminded me that topics like distance, area, and perimeter seem simple at first, but can be easy for students to mix up if the explanation is not grounded well. Emilia kept the focus on what each idea actually meant, which helped the lesson stay clear and easy to follow. That stood out to me because it reflected how important it is to build understanding before expecting students to apply formulas confidently. I also noticed the value of giving the student space to think before stepping in. Emilia guided the lesson well, but she did not rush to fill every silence or correct every mistake immediately. Seeing that was a good reminder that students often learn more when they are given the chance to work through things themselves with support.
Overall, the lesson reaffirmed for me that effective tutoring usually comes back to the basics: clarity, patience, and knowing when to guide versus when to let the student think.

Nabil Harrar