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SCMP Reporter

Students should not hesitate to voice their apprehensions and fears as the critical examination period draws near, an education counsellor said.

  'They might find it difficult to tell their parents and teachers about their worries, but they can always turn to social workers and counsellors who are there to help them,' said Ng Tak-kay, director of Hok Yau Club's Student Guidance Centre.

  With the changes in the HKCEE English Language syllabus this year, students might find it hard to cope with the extra pressure and uncertainties, Mr Ng predicted.

  'The new format and new mode of oral and listening papers will probably be their major problem.

  'Students should not hesitate to raise their queries and discuss their problems,' he said.

  Mr Ng assured students that they still have enough time to prepare for the exam and should not give up at this stage.

  'They should use their time effectively. They should first set a revision timetable for the mock exam. After that, they should have an overview of their strengths and weaknesses and adjust their time table accordingly to prepare for the HKCEE.'    Mr Ng advised students to be realistic when setting their exam targets and to consult their teachers.

  Those who decide to give their performance a final boost by taking tutorial courses offered by private organisations should be cautious.

  'Many of these organisations claim that they have shortcuts and exam tips. Some even say their tutors set the questions for the exams.

  'But there are rules that govern the disclosure of exam materials. Examiners are not allowed to give any hints. Students should learn the exam techniques instead of seeking shortcuts,' Mr Ng said.

  To better prepare students for the exam season, Hok Yau Club held a series of seminars on individual subjects and general exam techniques for fifth-formers recently.

  Representatives from the Hong Kong Education Authority were present to answer students' queries and remind them of the common mistakes made during public exams.

  In co-operation with RTHK, the club has been running a radio programme, HKCEE Encyclopedia, on Channel Five (AM 783, FM 106.8) since March 1 and will continue to answer students' queries through to August.

  Another exam-oriented radio show, Youth Hotline, will be aired on Radio Two in May to provide students with guidance and up-to-date information.

  To familiarise students with exam atmosphere and procedures, Hok Yau Club will be holding mock exams for Chinese Language ($25), English Language ($20) and Mathematics ($25) on April 5 and 6 at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, City University of Hong Kong and various secondary schools.

  'We want to let students practise in a real exam environment. Their papers will be marked so they can have an idea of how they are doing,' Mr Ng said.



Pupils urged to air exam woes