Vol. 469 No. 7
33 Miss Coughlan asked the Minister for Education if she will introduce a practical assessment for leaving certificate science subjects; the proposals, if any, she has regarding adequate teaching hours for the preparation of this examination; and the additional resources, if any, she will provide for students and teachers as a consequence of this measure. [18086/96]
The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment has produced draft revised syllabi for physics and chemistry. Draft revised syllabi for biology and agricultural science are expected from the NCCA in the near future. In the case of physics and chemistry it was proposed that practical work should also be assessed in addition to assessment by means of a terminal written examination.
I understand that the NCCA now proposes a feasibility study during the current school year on the assessment of practical work. I will await the outcome of the feasibility study before a decision on the question of whether and how practical assessment might be carried out.
New programmes in physics and chemistry (and other science subjects) at leaving certificate level will be introduced so that they can be taught within the normal constraints of the school timetable. If there are to be newer forms of assessment they will have to be costed and agreed and the necessary in-career development provided.
