Bhubaneswar, March 1: Students of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) appeared for their Class XII school leaving examinations across the state today.
While both the Class X and Class XII examinations of the CBSE started across the country today, the Class X exam will start in the state tomorrow.
"Schools in our state do not offer subjects such as retail, security and information technology. That's why the Class X tests will start here from tomorrow," said CBSE regional officer of Bhubaneswar L.L. Meena.
More than one lakh students from 250 CBSE schools across the state will appear for the Class X and Class XII examinations. While the Class X exams will continue till March 28, the Class XII examinations will end on April 22.
Sixty-six centres have been set up across the state to conduct the tests. Of these, 11 are in Bhubaneswar. "The examinations went off smoothly on the first day. We had also appointed special observers to ensure the smooth conduct of the board examinations," Meena said.
The Telegraph sought Meena's advice on how the students and their parents can beat the stress during the examination time. Here is what she suggested:
For students:
♦ Make realistic study plans
♦ Follow normal daily routine
♦ Take frequent breaks
♦ Do not push entertainment out of your daily schedules
♦ Imagining extreme consequences and worst situations is of no use
♦ Try to see what can be accomplished in allocated time
♦ Take the tests in a normal way, tackle questions and manage time
♦ Contact the teachers or counsellors if your are feeling low or anxious
For parents:
♦ Do not nag the child. Be supportive and encouraging.
♦ Help the child in maintaining his confidence especially when he seems discouraged
♦ Do not put your anxiety on the child
♦ You should set realistic goals for your child based on his/her capability
♦ Do not harp on failures
♦ High expectations may lead to greater anxiety
♦ Humour relieves tension. Be light and humorous with the child
♦ Exams are not the end of the world
♦ Avoid criticising or comparing your child with others
