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The pressure of matric exams – don’t judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree

The pressure of matric exams – don’t judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree
Stefani du Toit
By Stefani du Toit
10 Oct 2024
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Traditional assessments, such as the upcoming matric exams, do not accurately reflect an individual’s full potential. These exams are not a one-size-fits-all measure of ability, nor are they definitive predictors of future success.

As we celebrate World Mental Health Day on 10 October, it is crucial to consider the mental health of our youth. With the final matric exams around the corner, many young people are beginning to feel the pressure as anxiety and stress increase.

Albert Einstein is often quoted as saying: “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.”

While the true origin of this quote may be debated, its metaphor serves as a powerful reminder to recognise individual strengths and talents rather than applying a singular standard of intelligence or capability.

In the context of education, this metaphor highlights the fact that traditional assessments, such as the upcoming matric exams, do not accurately reflect an individual’s full potential. These exams are not a one-size-fits-all measure of ability, nor are they definitive predictors of future success.

Archaic notion


Personally, I know many individuals who were not very strong academically in school but later discovered their passions and pursued what they genuinely enjoyed learning about. Freed from the archaic notion that people learn best when forced to sit behind a desk for six hours a day, restricted to a limited range of subjects, and subjected to a series of exams in quick succession that really only test their ability to memorise, they have gone on to build successful careers in various fields.

On 21 October 2024, 732,448 learners will begin their final matric exams. Many matrics and their families regard these exams as the most critical assessment of their academic journey, often viewed as the key that can forever lock or unlock a successful career and a prosperous future.

This perception creates immense pressure on young individuals who most likely have not yet developed the coping skills necessary to handle such stress, leading to heightened anxiety and mental health challenges during this pivotal moment in their lives.

The stakes feel incredibly high, leading many to measure their self-worth with their performance in this exam. Unfortunately, this mindset can overshadow the diverse talents and skills that students possess — much like judging a fish by its ability to climb a tree.

Devastatingly, in recent years there have been numerous reports of students taking their own lives after the release of exam results — potential forever lost due to the false belief that their exam results determine their worth and that the door to success has been permanently closed.

The mental health implications of this pressure cannot be overstated.

Call to parents and caregivers


To parents and caregivers: your role during this critical time in your young child’s life is essential. Instead of imposing unrealistic expectations based solely on exam results, support and encourage your child to focus on doing their best while reminding them that their value as an individual extends far beyond academic performance.

Reassure them that their self-worth is not measured by the outcomes of these exams, nor is their future defined by academic results.

Celebrate your child’s unique abilities and interests. Engage them in open conversations about mental health and the pressures associated with exams. These discussions can help normalise the topic for them.

Provide emotional support by being present for your child during this challenging time. Listen to their concerns without judgement and reassure them that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. You need to be their haven during this period. Create an environment for them where they feel secure enough to express themselves without fear of judgement. Your support can significantly affect their experience of this exam season.

Message to matrics


To all individuals preparing for the matric finals: remember that these exams do not define your future. While they are important milestones in your learning journey, they are not the ultimate predictors of your success in life.

Although passing the matric exams is essential for university or college admission, it’s important to recognise that a diploma or degree is not the only pathway to success.

Many accomplished individuals have encountered setbacks or taken unconventional paths such as vocational training, entrepreneurship, or self-directed learning to build fulfilling careers. They did not rely solely on academic excellence, and that is perfectly okay.

If you are planning to pursue a university degree or college diploma, it’s wise to have backup plans (Plan B and Plan C) in place. Prepare for the possibility that things may not go as expected. If challenges arise, remember not to give up; stay resilient and keep striving toward your goals.

Acknowledge your unique talents and skills


Strive to do your best, but also remember that it’s normal to face challenges along the way. Be kind to yourself during this time; if things don’t go as planned, don’t view yourself as a failure. Acknowledge your unique talents and skills — whether in sports, the arts, community service, or other interests.

These aspects of your identity are equally valuable and contribute to who you are as a person.

Success comes in many forms and is not solely measured by exam results or grades. Your passion, determination, and resilience will play a far more significant role in shaping your future than any exam result ever could.

Embrace this journey with confidence, knowing that your worth extends far beyond these exams, regardless of the path you choose.

Let us refrain from judging a fish by its ability to climb a tree. We must not measure a student's worth or intelligence with their performance on assessments that do not accurately reflect their unique abilities in any way.

While the matric exams are indeed an important milestone, they should never come at the expense of the mental wellbeing of our young people. DM

Dr Stefani du Toit is a senior researcher at the Institute for Life Course Health Research at Stellenbosch University. These are her personal views.

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