The 3rd nine weeks are winding down and with that, the midterm exam season is taking place. Depending on the class, many students are wrapping up their projects, adding the final edits to essays, studying for in-class exams, and preparing for presentations. Many students have a preference on which assignment they are given whether it be control over the time put in, planning it out, or the simplicity of the assignment, each student has a preference.
“I have had many friends in the past few days talk to me about how many essays they had to do and how much it stresses them out,” Phoenix P, a Sophomore at Elkins High School said. “No doubt it has a toll on teachers that have to grade them within a specific time. Essays can be tedious and it can be extremely easy to lose motivation.”
Many students who express concern for their time management or the quality of their midterm prefer a presentation, project, or essay over a test. The same goes for students who may struggle with studying for exams, preferring something that could be worked on at home instead of studying for an exam they must take in class.
“I prefer doing a project or presentation for my midterm exam,” Savannah G, a Freshman at Elkins High School says, “I feel like I have more control over the amount of effort I put into that. With a test, it’s hit or miss, but I have the ability to put in the right amount of effort if it’s a project or presentation.”
Other students prefer tests as it allows for preparation time. The complicated posters, slides, or research papers can be tedious, causing students to prefer a test since many teachers give students study guides or detailed notes to give them a guide for preparation.
“I prefer doing tests for the final grade,” Rue F, a Junior at Elkins High School said. “Projects make me feel rushed and I usually don’t get to put as much effort into them as I’d like. I also hate presentations with a passion because I get anxious speaking in front of people I don’t talk to. It’s also easier to study for a test, and you are usually aware of what content will be on it.”
No matter the preference, the midterm season is a stressful experience and must be given the right amount of preparation and effort. As the end of the year approaches, the Elkins High School students are working through their classes, extracurriculars, and out-of-school activities at full force.
“Exams are certainly stressful,” Briar H, a sophomore at Elkins High School said. “I’m very glad they are coming to an end and giving us all a bit of a break.”
