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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 12 Nov 1997

Vol. 482 No. 6

Written Answers. - Leaving Certificate Examination.

Paul Bradford

Question:

462 Mr. Bradford asked the Minister for Education and Science the current position regarding the introduction of practical exams in the leaving certificate science subjects; and the expected date of the first of those practical exams. [18901/97]

The five science subjects in the leaving certificate curriculum at present are physics, chemistry, biology, agricultural science and the combination subject physics and chemistry. With the exception of agricultural science, where the practical work undertaken by a candidate is assessed by the class teacher and externally monitored by the Department, these subjects are currently assessed by means of a written examination only.

Revised syllabi for physics and chemistry have been finalised by the National Council for Curriculum Assessment (NCCA), while the syllabi for biology, agricultural science and the combination subject physics and chemistry are currently being revised. The development of practical skills is given greater emphasis in all revised syllabi.

It is premature to state if, and how, practical work should be assessed in the future. A feasibility study on methods whereby practical work in physics and chemistry might be assessed has been carried out by the NCCA. The outcomes of this study are being analysed at present within my Department.

Paul Bradford

Question:

463 Mr. Bradford asked the Minister for Education and Science if his Department will hold oral, aural and practical examinations during the Easter holiday break; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18902/97]

The timetable for the 1998 examinations has been agreed with the partners and will issue to all concerned shortly. The timetable does not provide for any examinations during the Easter break.

My Department consults widely before the timetable is finalised and invites suggestions on any improvements on the existing schedules. The suggestion regarding use of the Easter period has been raised from time to time. There are practical issues which impact on the scheduling of examinations during the Easter break such as the availability of students and schools, provision of transport and the recruitment of sufficient suitable examiners.

Timetabling arrangements will continue to be reviewed on an ongoing basis with the partners. The approach is to build consensus regarding suggested improvements. While there are limitations to the capacity to amend and improve the examination schedules for the orals and practicals my
Department remains receptive to any suggestions that could lead to an improvement.
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