Report on the Career of a Doctor
Planning (Worksheet 12.1)
Introduction
- Topic: Researching the career of a medical doctor
- Purpose: To investigate the requirements, responsibilities, and opportunities in the career of a
doctor
- Hypothesis/Driving Question: What skills, education, and personal qualities are needed to become
a successful doctor?
Research Findings
1. Education – Requires completion of high school with science subjects, then a medical degree at
a university (6 years in South Africa).
2. Training – Two years of internship and one year of community service are compulsory before
becoming a practicing doctor.
3. Skills – Doctors must have strong communication, problem-solving, and empathy.
4. Work Environment – Doctors can work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices. Hours can be
long and stressful.
5. Opportunities – Specialisations such as surgery, paediatrics, cardiology, etc.
Recommendations
- Learners should study maths and science in high school.
- Volunteering in clinics can provide early exposure.
- Develop soft skills such as teamwork and resilience.
Conclusion
The research shows that becoming a doctor is challenging but rewarding. With the right education
and dedication, one can build a fulfilling career in medicine.
First Draft (Worksheet 12.2)
Introduction
The purpose of this report is to outline the research process and findings about the career of a
medical doctor. The driving question was: “What is required to become a doctor and succeed in the
medical field?”
Body
The research showed that doctors need to complete extensive education. In South Africa, this
includes six years of medical study, followed by internship and community service. A doctor must
also continue lifelong learning through medical updates and training.
Key skills identified include communication, empathy, and decision-making under pressure. Doctors
also need teamwork skills, as they work closely with nurses, specialists, and other healthcare
workers.
The work environment can be stressful because doctors often work long hours, deal with
emergencies, and manage serious illnesses. However, opportunities exist for specialisation in many
fields such as surgery, paediatrics, cardiology, and psychiatry.
Conclusion
The career of a doctor requires hard work, commitment, and passion for helping people. Learners
should focus on science subjects at school and gain experience through volunteering. I recommend
this career for those who are determined and willing to face challenges, as it offers both personal
satisfaction and the chance to make a difference in society.
Final Draft (Worksheet 12.3)
Report on the Career of a Doctor
Introduction
This report presents the findings of research into the career of a medical doctor. The main purpose
was to explore the requirements, responsibilities, and opportunities within this profession. The
research was guided by the question: “What skills, training, and personal qualities are needed to
succeed as a doctor?”
Body
The findings show that becoming a doctor requires a high level of education and training. In South
Africa, students must complete six years of study at a medical school, followed by two years of
internship and one year of community service. Only after this process can one become a registered
doctor.
Doctors also need essential skills such as communication, empathy, critical thinking, and
problem-solving. These skills are important when diagnosing illnesses, explaining treatments to
patients, and working with healthcare teams.
The working environment of a doctor can be stressful, with long hours, night shifts, and emotionally
demanding cases. Despite these challenges, there are many opportunities for growth and
specialisation, such as cardiology, paediatrics, surgery, and psychiatry.
Conclusion
The research concludes that the career of a doctor is both demanding and rewarding. It requires
dedication, resilience, and a passion for improving people’s health. Learners who wish to pursue
this career should focus on science subjects, seek volunteer opportunities in healthcare, and
prepare for lifelong learning. I recommend this career to individuals who are motivated,
compassionate, and determined to make a positive difference in society.
