Scientifically rubbish lessons

Simon Clarkson, a Leicestershire based science teacher, told the conference that Ofqual, the exam regulator, is right in its intentions to stop practical lessons counting towards GCSE and A Level grades. Ofqual has outlined plans for A Level students newly studying biology, chemistry and physics having to undertake at least 12 practical examinations, none of which will count towards their final grade. Instead, written exams at the end of the two year course will form 100 per cent of the overall grade.

Mr Clarkson told the conference: "Currently a lot of practical work at GCSE is scientifically rubbish. We don’t ask our students to find things out, to explore the world around them. Instead, we ask our students to jump through hoops."

A fellow science teacher, Geoff Pye, believes that the new system will allow schools to teach 'real practical science' which will enable students to develop 'advanced skills using advanced equipment'.

As a result of his school teaching international GCSE science courses, Mr Pye said: "When we get new pupils coming in from other schools to start A-levels having done the traditional examined course, their practical skills are nowhere near our standard."

New tougher A Levels are to be introduced from September this year.

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