State two factors that might make the changes during matric challenging or intimidating for certain learners

On this page, we help students to answer the following question: “State two factors that might make the changes during matric challenging or intimidating for certain learners.” This is for Life Orientation Grade 12 Term 1 Source-Based Task 2026.

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Quick Answer

Factors Making Matric Challenging: * Increased Academic Pressure: The high volume of work and the importance of the final NSC exams . * Future Planning Stress: The pressure of making big decisions about tertiary studies and career paths. * Personal Responsibilities: Balancing school work with family duties and financial decisions.+3

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Full Answer: Why the Transition into Matric is Challenging

Matric is widely considered one of the most demanding periods in a learner’s life. While some find the transition exciting, many others find the sudden changes intimidating due to various internal and external pressures.+2

1. Increased Academic Pressure and Examination Stakes

The primary factor that makes matric challenging is the significant jump in academic expectations compared to Grade 11.

• Learners face a heavy workload with multiple subjects and strict deadlines that must be met.+1
• The looming NSC exams are seen as high-stakes, as the results determine admission requirements for higher education.+1
• This environment often leads to excessive stress and anxiety, especially for those who lack effective study methods .+1

2. The Burden of Future Planning and Career Decisions

For the first time, learners are expected to make concrete decisions about their post-school destinations.

• Choosing between starting tertiary studies or taking a gap year can cause significant intrapersonal conflict.+1
• Researching funding options and understanding financial values adds another layer of complexity to their final year .+1

3. Managing Personal and Social Responsibilities

Learners must learn to balance their academic goals with their roles within their families and peer groups.

• Social influences and peer pressure can impact a learner’s well-being and their ability to stay focused .
• Many are also expected to manage their own money or seek financial independence, which can lead to interpersonal conflicts if values differ from those of their parents or friends .

Reference for Students:

• Subject: Life Orientation Grade 12
• Source: Western Cape Education Department Sourced-Based Task (February 2026) +1
• Topic: Development of the Self in Society: Challenges of Matric .