Gaokao candidates learn lessons in testing times

She hopes gaokao students will be given a day off when the lockdown is lifted. "The first thing I will do is go to the downtown and buy a cola at the supermarket," she said.

Her father has tried to comfort her by emphasizing the positive. "He said I will have solved one more problem (beaten the virus) than the other students (previous gaokao candidates)," she said.

If the essay subject in this year's exam is related to the epidemic, Tong may write about the international support shown for Wuhan, along with the supplies that have arrived from across the globe.

"People from different countries and cultures have come together to fight this disaster," she said.

Tong wants to study law at Wuhan University. "Figuring out the legal system will help me form a deeper understanding of the country via a range of rational and diverse opinions," she said.

"You have to make all-out efforts to be the best in any field."

Optimism

Guan Zian, who also attends Wuhan No 6 High School, said the epidemic means the pressure of the once-in-a-lifetime exam has been eased.

"Everyone has been affected by the outbreak to some degree. My classmates and I are optimistic about the situation, as too much tension doesn't help at all," the 18-year-old said.

He and his friends have discussed the possibility that the exam may be postponed.

"There has been no confirmation of that, so we will continue to study according to our original schedule," he said, adding that he hopes the exam will proceed as planned.

Zhang Junchun, director of the third grade at Wuhan No 6 High School, said the grade consists of 16 classes of about 40 students each.

"Four psychological counselors have published blogs offering advice for the students, who can call them during work hours," he said.

He added that all the teachers, especially class heads, have been encouraged to provide students with advice during online classes, because "their familiarity with the students' backgrounds will help the candidates regain their confidence and a normal attitude".

Most of the students remain optimistic, according to Zhang. "They are still young and their sources of information are relatively limited, thanks to the protection offered by their schools and families," he said.