As the Kenya Junior Secondary Education Assessment (KJSEA) nears, education consultant Dr Mutahi Miricho has outlined crucial strategies for both teachers and learners to boost performance and ease anxiety.
Dr Miricho stressed the importance of aligning revision to curriculum designs, explaining that, “KJSEA will test Grade 7 to 9 work, but the bulk of the questions come from Grades 7 and 8. Learners must prepare with this balance in mind.”
He further highlighted that understanding current curriculum rationalisations is essential. “The current Grade 9 students began with an earlier curriculum design in Grade 7, but they will be tested using the revised, rationalised version. Preparation must therefore focus on the new structure, not the old one.”
Teachers, he added, have a central role in guiding learners to revise strategically. “Teachers should emphasise the sub-strands and outcomes KNEC is testing. Guiding learners through strands and sub-strands helps them see the bigger picture of what is examinable.”
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Dr Miricho warned against rote memorisation, pointing out that KJSEA requires higher-order thinking. “Most questions will not just ask what you know; they will ask how you apply, analyse, evaluate, and create with that knowledge.”
He provided examples of real-life contexts in exam design. “A mathematics question may show data collected in a field survey and ask learners to identify or interpret patterns. Such questions test critical thinking, not just recall.”
He also advised learners to master the format of KJSEA papers, noting, “When learners know how questions are structured, they reduce stress and gain confidence. Familiarity with sample papers is just as important as content mastery.”
Finally, Dr Miricho reminded both students and parents of the stakes ahead. “KJSEA is not just another exam—it determines placement into Grade 10. Learners must set clear targets and aim high, because this assessment shapes the next stage of their academic journey.”
By Joseph Mambili
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