Life is full of choice, isn’t it? Except when it comes to choosing the best GCSE options, you can find yourself at a crossroads unsure which direction to go in.
The trouble is, most of us don’t know what we want to do at 13. Some have a clear career in mind, while others haven’t a clue which GCSE subjects to plump for.
That’s normal, so don’t worry if you’re completely in the dark too. That said, year 9 options loom large just as your hormones are raging.
And there you are having to make life decisions that could affect what happens to you next. Our advice here at 1-2-1 HomeTutors? Lead on Macduff!, we hear you cry.
Choose Subjects you Love
It goes without saying: you’ll work harder at a subject if you enjoy it.
So ask yourself:
- What makes you happy?
- Which subjects trigger your curiosity?
- Which lessons do you look forward to?
Be honest with yourself. If you are fascinated by History or Geography, then pick a Humanities subject.
If you’re creative and like designing or creating, pick Art/Design.
If you enjoy languages, and like the idea of broadening your horizons – literally – pick a Modern Foreign Language to study at GCSE.
Perhaps you are sporty and fancy a career involving sport/training etc, Physical Education may well be the option for you.
And, of course, depending on your school, there will be more choices on offer from Psychology, Media or Dance to Business Studies, Textiles to Computer Science.
Is it Possible to Pick the Wrong Subjects?
Yep, for sure. For starters, it’s so tempting to pick the same subjects as your friends.
Might seem like a good idea at the time except you still have to do the work, sit the exams, and complete the coursework if there is any.
Plus if your friends are better at it, you might end up in another group anyway – plus it could lead to anxiety for you in the long run.
Equally, you might be swayed by your current teacher who absolutely rocks!
Chances are, they could move school, not be your subject teacher anyway, or might even go on sick leave. There’s no guarantees in life…
That’s why our lovely tutor team would always advise you to follow your heart first.
The Painless Way to Choosing GCSE Options
Instead:
- List your likes, interests and personality traits. Equally, list what you don’t like in order to narrow your subject choices down.
- Check out career possibilities…
- Do a bit of research about subjects too: ask older siblings, a teacher, or or even a year 11 student.
Remember that some subjects can help you to learn transferrable skills.
History students learn how to:
- Conduct research, write/shape convincing arguments, analyse detail,
- Reach balanced conclusions, summarise data, problem solving,
- Develop insight into people and places; acquire critical thinking skills
Need More Help to Achieve your Dream Career?
Our troop of tutors have experienced at first hand what it’s like to change careers, pursue dreams and make life choices.
Being subject specialists, they are best placed to help you achieve your goals.
A spot of one to one tuition can definitely open up doors and help your career pathway feel much smoother.
Get in touch with our tutor team today here at 1-2-1 Home Tutors, whether you’re in Manchester, Cheshire or anywhere!
- Image courtesy of Southchurch High School
Tags: career, likes and interests, options, transferrable skills, year 9