Year 12 can be one of the most stressful periods in a student’s life. Between exams, assignments, and extracurricular activities, it can feel like there’s no time to relax. One unexpected but highly effective way to reduce stress? Reading. And no, not just your required English books – though those are important too! Making the time to read other books during Year 12 might just be the best decision you can make for your school performance, creativity, and overall well-being.
Why Reading Books Outside Your Curriculum is a Game-Changer
In my first Year 12 English class, my teacher, a former examiner, sat down and told us something surprising: our final English scores would largely depend on how many books we had already read. While he was right about the importance of reading, I didn’t agree with his assumption that our scores were predetermined and wouldn’t change significantly based on how hard we worked in Year 12.
Debates about fate aside, the impact of reading during Year 12 cannot be overstated. Studies have shown that reading is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and boost creativity – all things you need during your final school year.
Reading to Reduce Stress: The Scientific Backing
A study [linked article] published in The Telegraph found that reading can reduce stress by up to 68%, outperforming other popular stress-relief activities like listening to music, taking a walk, or having a cup of tea. The study also discovered that reading for just six minutes can significantly lower your stress levels. In the high-pressure environment of Year 12, taking even a short break to read can help reset your mind and reduce stress.
The Academic Benefits of Reading Beyond School Texts
Aside from reducing stress, reading has academic benefits that can indirectly improve your Year 12 results. When you read, your vocabulary expands, your grasp of sentence structures improves, and you become more attuned to the flow of language – all without actively studying. These improvements are particularly useful for subjects like English, Literature, and even humanities subjects like History or Philosophy.
Conclusion
While it might feel like you don’t have time to read anything beyond your textbooks, making time to read for pleasure can greatly enhance your performance. You don’t need to read whole novels, either. Even a short story, a few pages of non-fiction, or an online article can provide the same benefits. By dedicating just a few minutes a day to reading, you’re not only giving yourself a mental break but also helping yourself excel academically. So, what are you waiting for? Pick up a book and start reading!
FAQs
1. How does reading help reduce stress for Year 12 students?
Reading helps reduce stress by allowing you to focus on something other than your academic workload. Studies show that reading can lower stress levels by 68% and only takes about six minutes to start working. It helps relax both your mind and body, making it easier to concentrate and perform well in school.
2. What kinds of books should I read to relieve stress in Year 12?
You don’t have to limit yourself to a specific genre! Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, fantasy, or self-help, choose books that genuinely interest you. The key is to enjoy the reading process, which will help you relax and take a mental break from your studies.
3. Can reading really help improve my performance in Year 12?
Yes! Reading not only reduces stress but also helps improve your vocabulary, writing skills, and creativity. These improvements can indirectly boost your performance, particularly in subjects like English, Literature, and humanities courses.
