11/06/2013

Gove Announces Changes To GCSE System

Michael Gove has revealed details of his latest education overhaul, which he claims will help UK pupils compete “with the best in the world".

In 2015, GSCE course will be longer be graded on coursework, students will instead sit final exams after two years of study. The grading system will also change from A* – G, to 8 – 1.

Announcing the changes Mr Gove told the house of commons that, "We need to reform our examination system to restore public confidence".

One critic however, said that the constant changes meant that pupils had become "Mr Gove's guinea pigs".

The key changes being made are:

• Nine core GCSE subjects will change first

• A numbered grading system of 8-1 rather than by the current letters

• Full exams taken at the end of two years instead of coursework across the period of study

• Controlled assessments (coursework done under exam conditions) will be scrapped

• Exams to be based on a more stretching, essay-based system

• Pass mark to be pushed higher

(MH/CD)


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