By Jennifer Newman, Staff Writer
This year’s midterm exam schedule looks noticeably different from previous years, with adjustments to both the testing order and the length of exams. These changes were made in hopes of improving the testing experience, but many students and teachers have concerns about the new arrangement.
Previously, students began testing with a full day featuring the Period 1 midterm, followed by half days through the rest of the week for the remaining exams: Periods 2 and 3 on the second day, 4A and 5 on the third day, and 4B and 6 on the final day. This year, the structure has shifted. The first day remains a full day, but now includes the Period 3 midterm. Next follows a half day, featuring Periods 1, 2, and 4A exams. Finally, another half day concludes the testing week with Periods 5, 6, and 4B. In addition, midterm tests have been shortened from 90 minutes to 60 minutes each, marking one of the biggest adjustments to the exam schedule in years.
Many students have mixed feelings about the new setup. “I think it’s nice that the exams are shorter, but having three exams in just one school day will make it so much more stressful,” explained senior Marella Virmani. “It’s a lot of mental energy to switch subjects so many times in the day.”
Others appreciate the change in pacing. “I like that it makes the week feel shorter,” senior Mahi Patel admitted. “Last year, having a full week of exams was exhausting. This new schedule gives us a little more breathing room.”
Still, many students are uncertain about the rearranged order. “It’s kind of confusing that Period 3 comes before Period 1,” said senior Ivy Nguyen. “I think everyone’s trying to figure out how to study in the right order now.”
Despite the adjustments, a few see some benefits in the overall approach. “Shorter tests are definitely a relief,” stated senior Samara Winrose. “An hour feels more manageable, and it might even make teachers focus on what’s most important instead of cramming in too many questions.”
Teachers have been just as affected by the changes as students, since the new schedule has required them to redesign and shorten their exams to fit the revised format. Mrs. Nichols, a social studies teacher here at River Hill, explains how “teachers were told they can start their exams on an earlier date in class,” but that it does not make up for the downfalls of the new schedule. “I don’t think we should ever have a schedule that puts 3 tests in a single day for students,” stated Nichols.As students and teachers adapt to the new format, the hope is that the revised schedule and shorter exams will reduce stress and improve focus, though opinions remain divided. Only time will tell whether this year’s changes become the new midterm tradition, or get scrapped next year entirely.