It is understandable to feel the pressure of results at this time of the year because everyone is tense about what results they will get. However, it is important to first understand the GCSE grading system and the changes being incorporated into it.
Understanding the New GCSE Grading System
In 2014, England introduced the 9-1 grading system as a result of a curriculum change.
Understanding that nine is the highest and one is the lowest is also critical.
Comparison With The Old Grading System
When discussing the new GCSE grading system, we must also understand that the number scale differs from the number scale; although it does meet in certain places, it is not equal at all locations.
How Does it Align?
1. the bottom of grade 7 is aligned with grade A
2. the bottom of the grade is aligned with the bottom of grade C
3. the bottom of grade 1 is aligned with the bottom of grade G
4. three number grades – 9, 8, and 7 – correspond to the two previous top grades of A* and A
But Why is The Grading System Changed?
The numerical GCSE grading system was part of the 2014 overhaul of the system’s curriculum. It places less emphasis on the coursework than before as the qualifications were made more challenging with exams taken after two years. Previously, students covered the syllabus through modules with assessments along the course.
People argue that moving from letters to numbers helps employers better understand whether a student has taken a more challenging GCSE or an easier, letter-based one.
How are GCSE Grade Boundaries Decided?
Examiners decide grade boundaries every year using statistics from both the current and previous years. The examiners determine what the boundaries should be and how many of the grades, now represented by numbers, should be assigned.
It is also imperative to realize that the difficulty of an exam has a significant effect on each grade boundary as well.
Regional Differences in GCSE grading
How are GCSEs graded in Northern Ireland?
In North Ireland, grades are based on a nine-category scale of A* to G, including a C*.
However, students can get a 9-1 if they decide to take exams on English boards.
How are GCSEs graded in Wales?
The Welsh government introduced a new grading system in 2015, and the most significant changes were English Language, Welsh Language, and Mathematics. Moreover, wales retained the letter grading system A*-G.
How will the new Grading System Impact the students?
The new GCSE grading system has raised concerns among parents and students but has been made to offer differentiation that aligns with international standards. Examination boards and schools have implemented support measures to ensure a smooth transition, including extra resources and modified teaching methods. While initially challenging, this change aims to enhance student resilience and adaptability, focusing on a comprehensive skill set beyond mere grades.
Conclusion:
The 9-1 GCSE grading system offers a more precise method of assessing student performance. It is internationally aligned, enabling better differentiation of student abilities. This system prepares students for future academic and career paths. The combined science GCSE provides a broad foundation with fewer exams, catering to diverse needs. This new system requires more attention from students and more personalized attention. Find Your Tutor offers personalized tutoring for students. This can help your child improve on the number scale. It also relieves the tension of the change in the grading system.
