Grade 9 pupils face tough subject choices

GRADE 9 pupils across South Africa are all in the same boat; having to make life-changing decisions that will not only impact the rest of their schooling career, but their futures as well.

These teenagers need to choose the subjects they will sit for in their National Senior Certificate, despite having the added stress of a disrupted 2020.

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Choosing subjects to take them into their future is a challenging task, as subject combinations not only influence learners’ choices, but will also determine performance and motivation over the next three years, and beyond.

Education experts, therefore, suggest pupils seek help from parents, guardians, teachers and outside experts, and give careful consideration to various factors at play, before settling on their final subject combination.

Grade 9s are required to take at least seven subjects; four of which are compulsory. These are Home Language; Second Language; Maths or Maths Literacy; and Life Orientation. The balance comprises the elective subjects.

For those pupils who are confused, and do not know what career path they want to pursue, following the 3P approach when making this decision is crucial. The 3Ps includes Passion, Potential and Performance, as outlined below.

1. Passion 
Pupils need to consider which subjects they are passionate about, without the influence of teachers and parents.
If they feel drawn to a particular subject or have a natural affinity for it, then the pupil should consider taking it as part of their subject choice.
Seeking advice from career and guidance councillors is also important.

1. Potential
For those who have a clear idea of what they want to study after school, it’s important to also have options available for a possible change of heart later. This is where so-called ‘gateway’ subjects enter.
Certain subjects, such as Maths and Science, allow pupils to keep options open, as many areas of further study require them.
If these subjects prove challenging, it may be worth pursuing just one so that efforts can be focused here. This positions the individual to pursue as wide a range of qualifications, while also demonstrating a well-rounded foundation when leaving school.

3. Performance
It is important to also include subjects that will boost the overall Matric aggregate.
Owing to the greater academic demands at higher education level, as well as the limited space at public universities and private higher education institutions, admissions are often performance-based.
So, it makes sense to choose one or two subjects which will boost the overall aggregate and improve the individual’s chances of being accepted into a higher education institution.

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