Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 January 2019
201. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the extent to which the junior certificate examination is meeting requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2960/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Framework for Junior Cycle presents a dual approach to assessment that supports student learning over the three years of junior cycle and also measures achievement at the end of those three years. This dual approach reduces the focus on one externally assessed examination as a means of assessing students and increases the prominence given to classroom-based assessment and formative assessment.
Implementation of the new Junior Cycle Framework commenced in September 2014 with the introduction of English, for first year students. Subjects are being introduced on a phased basis up to 2019 and are being supported by a comprehensive CPD programme for teachers.
Once each subject specification has been experienced by a cohort of students across the three-year span of their Junior Cycle, the NCCA will conduct an interim review to monitor enactment of the specification in schools.
As part of the Junior Cycle Framework, schools can now include programmes called Level 1 Learning Programmes (L1LPs) and Level 2 Learning Programmes (L2LPs) which are designed for students with particular special educational needs.
