GCSE science 'too easy'

July 23 2010

GCSE science is still too easy and fails to challenge the brightest pupils, according to a new report from exam watchdog Ofqual.

It highlighted the fact that it is possible to achieve an A grade by scoring less than 50 per cent.

Furthermore, pupils can be awarded a C by getting just six marks out of a possible 30.

"The findings of this investigation did not differ significantly from those found in previous investigations, thus adding further evidence that standards are currently too low in GCSE science and additional science qualifications," the watchdog stated.

There is too much reliance on multiple choice questions and not enough questions that require pupils to really demonstrate their scientific knowledge, the report added.

Libby Steele, Head of Education at the Royal Society, recently claimed that pupils need to do an "appropriate amount of practical work".

Children are likely to remember experiments much more than anything they read in a book, she added.

News brought to you by TimePlan, First for teaching jobs in the UK

Want to learn more about teaching in the UK?
 

News Homepage