Lebone Tumelo

Grade 12
Life Orientation
11 March 2024

Activity 1

1.1.1. Social stressor refers to behaviours and situations that are social in nature and related to
physical and psychological strain. It can stem from complicated social interactions, such as a
tumultuous marital or family relationship, verbal aggression from customers or superiors,
co-worker conflict, negative group environments, organizational politics, and unfair
treatment. Social stress can lead to a host of outcomes that are directly oppositional to
some of the most desired organizational behaviours and consequences, such as reduced job
satisfaction, increased turnover, feelings of failure, loss of productivity, and reduced altruism
and organizational citizenship behaviour.
1.1.2. Emotional stress involves experiencing negative emotions like anxiety in the context of a
physiological stress response that encompasses cardiovascular and hormonal changes.
Emotional stress frequently occurs when an individual perceives that they lack sufficient
personal resources to handle challenging circumstances effectively. Common triggers of
 emotional stress include interpersonal conflicts, criticism from colleagues or supervisors, and
unfavourable working conditions.
1.1.3. Environmental stressor refers to any physical, chemical, or biological entity that can cause
adverse effects on humans or ecosystems. Environmental stressors can constrain
productivity, reproductive success, and ecosystem development. They can be natural or
anthropogenic in origin and may include factors such as competition, predation, disease,
inadequate or excessive nutrients, moisture, or space, disturbances such as wildfire and
windstorms, noise, weather, temperature, pollution, and radiation. Environmental stressors
can cause physiological and ecological changes, leading to discomfort, anxiety, and
aggression. The risk assessment process is used to evaluate the nature and magnitude of
risks to human health and ecological systems resulting from exposure to environmental
stressors.
1.2. Peer Expectations: The expectations and judgments of peers regarding academic performance
and social status can create significant stress for matriculants, impacting their relationships and
self-esteem. Family Pressure: High expectations from family members regarding academic
achievements and future prospects can lead to stress and strain in matriculants' relationships
with their families, potentially affecting their well-being and interpersonal dynamics. Academic
Competition: The competitive nature of the academic environment, including pressure to excel
in exams and assessments, can create stress and strain in matriculants' relationships with their
classmates, leading to feelings of inadequacy and increased social pressure. Social Comparison:
Constant comparison with peers in terms of academic performance, extracurricular activities,
and future goals can contribute to social stress and impact matriculant’s relationships, leading
to feelings of insecurity and pressure to measure up to perceived standards.
1.3.1. Finances: Higher education can be expensive, and the financial burden of tuition, housing,
and other expenses can create significant stress for students and their families. Financial
stress can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, which can negatively
impact academic performance and overall well-being. Social Changes: Moving to a new
environment and meeting new people can be exciting, but it can also be stressful. Students
may feel pressure to fit in and make new friends, which can lead to social anxiety and stress.
Additionally, students may experience culture shock, homesickness, and other emotional
challenges as they adjust to a new social environment. Additionally, students may
experience stress related to living in a new environment, such as adjusting to new living
arrangements, navigating transportation, and managing daily responsibilities.
1.4. Emotional Support: Healthy relationships provide a crucial source of emotional support, which
is essential for managing stress and maintaining mental well-being. When individuals feel
understood, cared for, and valued by their friends, family, or partners, they are better
equipped to cope with the various stressors and challenges that life presents. Emotional
support can help reduce the negative impact of stress on both mental and physical health,
leading to improved mood, self-esteem, and overall psychological well-being. Research has
consistently shown that individuals with strong social support networks are less likely to
experience mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, and they may also have better
physical health outcomes.. Increased Resilience: Healthy relationships can contribute to the
development of resilience, which is the ability to adapt and bounce back from adversity.
Through positive social interactions and the support of others, individuals can build the
emotional strength and coping skills necessary to navigate life's challenges more effectively.
Resilient individuals are better able to maintain a sense of optimism, control, and purpose in
the face of stress, and they are less likely to experience prolonged negative effects on their
 well-being. By fostering healthy relationships, individuals can enhance their capacity to
overcome difficulties and thrive in the face of adversity.
1.5. Improved Physical Health: Physical activity can improve physical health in numerous ways.
Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as
heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, and improve overall cardiovascular health. Physical activity
can also improve bone density, muscle strength, and flexibility, reducing the risk of falls and
injuries. Additionally, regular exercise can improve sleep quality, boost energy levels, and
enhance overall physical functioning, leading to a better quality of life. Enhanced Mental
Health: Physical activity can also have a positive impact on mental health. Exercise has been
shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve mood, and enhance cognitive
function. Physical activity can also provide a sense of accomplishment and self-efficacy, leading
to increased self-esteem and confidence. Additionally, engaging in physical activity can provide
a healthy outlet for stress and tension, leading to improved emotional regulation and overall
mental well-being.
2.1.1 Time management refers to the coordination of tasks and activities to maximize the
effectiveness of an individual's efforts. It involves setting goals, prioritizing tasks, and
allocating time efficiently to achieve desired outcomes. Time management is beneficial for
enhancing productivity, reducing stress, and promoting a healthier work-life balance.
2.1.2 Examination writing skills refer to the acquired abilities that help learners cope better in
taking examinations. These skills allow students to maintain a good disposition and self-
confidence in dealing with stress and anxiety brought about by exams. Examples of
examination writing skills include: Reading questions and instructions carefully. Planning
answers before starting to write.
2.1.3 Revision refers to the process of reviewing and making changes to a piece of writing or
document to improve its quality, accuracy, and effectiveness. It involves rethinking,
reorganizing, and rewriting the content to ensure that it meets the intended purpose and
audience. Revision can include making changes to the structure, content, style, tone, and
grammar of a piece of writing. The goal of revision is to refine and polish the work to make it
more effective and engaging for the reader. Revision is an essential part of the writing
process, and it helps writers to produce high-quality work that meets the expectations of
their audience.
2.2. Creating a study schedule: Developing a study schedule helps students to manage their time
effectively and prioritize their tasks. A study schedule should include specific times for studying,
breaks, and leisure activities. By following a study schedule, students can avoid procrastination
and ensure that they cover all the necessary material before exams. Active reading: Active
reading involves engaging with the material by taking notes, highlighting key points, and asking
questions. This approach helps students to retain information better and understand the
material more deeply. Active reading also helps students to identify areas where they need to
focus their attention and review more thoroughly. Practice testing: Practice testing involves
testing oneself on the material to identify areas of strength and weakness. This approach helps
students to identify gaps in their knowledge and focus their attention on areas that need
improvement. Practice testing can also help students to build confidence and reduce test
anxiety. Collaborative learning: Collaborative learning involves working with peers to review and
discuss the material. This approach helps students to gain new perspectives, clarify their
understanding, and reinforce their knowledge. Collaborative learning can also help students to
develop communication and teamwork skills, which are essential for success in many fields.
Taking breaks: Taking regular breaks is essential for maintaining focus and avoiding burnout.
Short breaks can help students to recharge their energy and improve their productivity. Longer
 breaks, such as exercise or leisure activities, can help students to reduce stress and improve
their overall well-being.
2.3. Minimize distractions: Distractions can significantly reduce concentration levels. To minimize
distractions, find a quiet and comfortable study space, turn off electronic devices, and avoid
multitasking. This approach helps to create a conducive environment for studying and allows you
to focus on the task at hand. Use active learning techniques: Active learning techniques, such as
summarizing, note-taking, and self-testing, can help to improve concentration levels. These
techniques require active engagement with the material, which helps to maintain focus and
improve retention. Active learning also helps to break up the monotony of studying and makes
the process more engaging. Take regular breaks: Taking regular breaks is essential for
maintaining concentration levels. Studies have shown that taking short breaks every 45-60
minutes can help to improve productivity and reduce fatigue. During breaks, engage in activities
that help to recharge your energy, such as stretching, taking a walk, or listening to music. This
approach helps to reduce stress and improve overall well-being, which can positively impact
concentration levels.
2.4. One practical strategy that teachers can use to support learners to cope with anxiety during
examinations is to teach relaxation techniques. Anxiety can significantly impact academic
performance, and relaxation techniques can help to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm.
Here are some relaxation techniques that teachers can teach their students: Deep breathing:
Deep breathing involves taking slow, deep breaths to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
Encourage students to take deep breaths in through their nose and out through their mouth,
focusing on the sensation of the breath moving in and out of their body. Progressive muscle
relaxation: Progressive muscle relaxation involves tensing and relaxing different muscle groups
to promote relaxation and reduce tension. Encourage students to tense a muscle group for a few
seconds, then release the tension and focus on the sensation of relaxation. Visualization:
Visualization involves imagining a peaceful scene or situation to promote relaxation and reduce
stress. Encourage students to close their eyes and imagine a peaceful scene, such as a beach or a
forest, and focus on the sensory details of the scene.
3.1. Lack of visible progress: Corruption is a complex problem that can take a long time to address. If
people do not see any tangible progress in the fight against corruption, they may become
disillusioned and lose interest. This can happen if corruption continues to be rampant, or if anti-
corruption efforts are not effective. Fear of retaliation: Corruption often involves powerful
individuals or groups who may use their influence to retaliate against those who speak out
against them. This can create a climate of fear and discourage people from getting involved in
anti-corruption efforts. Lack of trust in institutions: If people do not trust the institutions
responsible for fighting corruption, they may be less likely to support anti-corruption efforts.
This can happen if institutions are seen as corrupt themselves, or if they are perceived as
ineffective or unaccountable. Apathy and cynicism: Corruption can be a pervasive problem that
affects many aspects of society. If people feel overwhelmed or powerless in the face of
corruption, they may become apathetic or cynical and believe that nothing can be done to
address the problem. This can lead to a lack of interest in fighting corruption.
3.2.1. Cronyism refers to the practice of people in positions of power or authority using their
influence to favor their friends or associates, regardless of their qualifications. It is a form of
corruption that can occur in many organizations, including businesses, governments, and
non-profit organizations. Cronyism can take many forms, such as giving jobs or promotions
to family members or close friends, awarding contracts or business deals to favoured
individuals or companies, or using personal relationships to influence hiring or investment
decisions. The negative impact of cronyism on organizations can be significant, as it can
 create a culture of favouritism and exclusivity, where merit and performance are not the
primary drivers of success. Cronyism can be challenging to detect or prove, but its negative
impact on organizations can be significant.
3.2.2. Bribery is the act of offering, giving, soliciting, or receiving something of value in exchange
for official action or influence. It involves the abuse of entrusted power for private gain and
can take many forms, such as giving jobs or promotions to family members or close friends,
awarding contracts or business deals to favored individuals or companies, or using personal
relationships to influence hiring or investment decisions. Bribery is a crime and both the
offeror and the recipient can be criminally charged. Proof of bribery requires demonstrating
a “quid pro quo” relationship in which the recipient directly alters behaviour in exchange for
the gift.
3.3. Loss of professional opportunities: Individuals engaged in corrupt practices risk losing job
prospects or advancements due to their tarnished reputation. Companies and organizations
may refuse to hire or promote someone known for engaging in corrupt behaviours, as it
reflects poorly on the organization itself. Damaged credibility and trust: Engaging in corrupt
activities can severely harm an individual's credibility and trustworthiness. Once a person's
reputation is damaged, it can be extremely difficult to regain the confidence of peers, clients,
or employers. Legal repercussions: Participants in corrupt activities run the risk of legal
penalties, fines, or jail sentences. Even if they manage to evade punishment initially, the
threat of legal action can negatively affect their careers, making it harder to find new
employment or maintain existing roles. Additionally, legal proceedings can be costly and
time-consuming, diverting energy and resources from productive endeavours.
3.4. Empowerment through education and awareness: Provide comprehensive educational
programs and workshops focused on understanding the nature and impacts of corruption.
Encourage open discussions about the topic among students and equip them with tools to
identify and report instances of corruption within their communities. By fostering critical
thinking skills and promoting transparency, young people will develop into informed citizens
capable of driving change. Leveraging technology and social media: Utilize digital platforms
and technological innovations to amplify the voices of young activists and mobilize collective
actions against corruption. Social media campaigns, online petitions, and collaborative
projects can help raise awareness, build networks, and foster collaboration between like-
minded individuals across borders. Young people possess unique expertise in navigating
these technologies, enabling them to effectively reach and engage others in the fight against
corruption.
4.1. Economic costs: Unemployment can lead to higher payments from state and federal
governments for unemployment benefits, food assistance, and Medicaid. This can strain
government budgets and divert resources from other important areas, such as education and
healthcare. Additionally, unemployed workers tend to spend less, which can reduce overall
economic activity and slow down economic growth. Social costs: Unemployment can lead to
increased crime rates and reduced volunteerism. It can also contribute to social unrest and
political instability, as unemployed individuals may become disillusioned with the government
and its ability to address their needs. Reduced productivity: Unemployment can lead to a loss of
skills and experience among workers, which can reduce overall productivity and innovation in
the economy. This can have long-term consequences for a country's competitiveness and
economic growth. Corruption: Unemployment can create conditions that are conducive to
corruption, as individuals may be more willing to engage in illegal activities to earn a living. This
can further undermine the integrity of institutions and erode public trust in government and
other organizations
4.2. Personal savings: Using your own money to fund your start-up venture offers complete control
over decision-making processes and eliminates external pressures associated with debt
repayment. However, this option may limit the scale of your initial operations based on available
funds. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans: SBA provides loan guarantees to banks and
credit unions, encouraging lenders to extend capital to entrepreneurs at lower interest rates
than traditional bank loans. While these loans require collateral and good credit scores, they can
be beneficial for start-ups seeking larger sums compared to personal savings alone.
Crowdfunding: Raising capital via crowdfunding websites allows entrepreneurs to present their
ideas to a wide audience and receive funding from multiple sources in return for rewards,
equity, or pre-orders of products. This approach enables founders to test market demand while
building a community around their brand. Microfinance institutions: Non-profit organizations
specializing in microloans cater specifically to low-income entrepreneurs and underbanked
populations. They typically offer smaller loans with flexible terms and minimal requirements,
making them accessible to aspiring business owners who struggle to secure conventional
financing.
4.3. Develop a strong resume and cover letter: Tailor your application materials to highlight relevant
skills and experiences specific to the position you seek. Use clear language, avoid clichés, and
keep documents concise yet informative. Include quantifiable achievements whenever possible,
showcasing your accomplishments rather than simply listing duties performed. Build a robust
online presence: Create a professional LinkedIn profile and optimize it with keywords related to
your industry and skillset. Share articles, participate in group discussions, and connect with
professionals in your field. Consider creating a portfolio website featuring samples of your work,
testimonials, and links to published content. Network actively: Attend networking events, join
local professional associations, and leverage social media platforms to expand your network.
Reach out to contacts in your desired industry, expressing genuine interest in their work and
asking questions to learn more about their experiences. Offer to assist colleagues when
appropriate, and always follow up after meetings to reinforce connections.
4.4. Job creation: Young entrepreneurs can create jobs, reducing youth unemployment and
contributing to economic growth. Innovation and competition: Young entrepreneurs bring fresh
perspectives and innovative ideas to the marketplace, enhancing competition and stimulating
economic growth. Social impact: Young entrepreneurs often tackle pressing social issues,
developing solutions that benefit their communities and drive positive change. Skills
development: Starting a business encourages young people to develop valuable skills, such as
critical thinking, problem-solving, networking, and self-discipline. Role modelling: Successful
young entrepreneurs serve as inspirational figures for their peers, motivating them to pursue
their dreams and overcome challenges. Long-term economic stability: Investing in young
entrepreneurs promotes a more diverse and dynamic economy, ensuring long-term economic
stability. Boosting local economies: Young entrepreneurs frequently establish businesses in their
home regions, revitalizing local economies and strengthening community ties.. Governments can
support young entrepreneurs through various measures, such as providing access to finance,
mentorship programs, incubators, and co-working spaces. By doing so, governments can
empower young people to realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to their
societies.
4.5. One practical strategy to determine if entrepreneurship is the best career option for you is to
start a side business or pursue a passion project while maintaining your current job. This
approach allows you to test the waters of entrepreneurship without fully committing, providing
valuable insights into the demands of running a business and the potential for success. By
starting a side business, you can assess your aptitude for entrepreneurship, gain first-hand
experience in managing various aspects of a company, such as finances, marketing, and
operations, and evaluate your ability to handle the associated risks and uncertainties.
Additionally, this strategy enables you to validate your business idea, build a customer base, and
generate revenue, offering tangible evidence of the viability of your entrepreneurial venture.
Engaging in a side business also allows you to assess your passion and commitment to the
entrepreneurial journey. It provides an opportunity to balance the demands of entrepreneurship
with your existing responsibilities and lifestyle, helping you determine if this career path aligns
with your long-term goals and personal aspirations. Ultimately, by pursuing a side business, you
can make an informed decision about whether entrepreneurship is the best career option for
you, leveraging practical experience and real-world feedback to ensure that it is a suitable and
rewarding path.