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Holistic and gentle
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The recently introduced grading system of evaluation for Standard X students of SSLC is holistic and gentler on them, finds out HEMJIT BHARATHAN.
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SSLC STUDENTS of Standard X, walking into their classrooms in the academic year June 2004, will be evaluated differently. A new grading system has been introduced to replace the current mode of evaluation based solely on marks. This system aims to improve the quality of life of the student, as she/he shall be judged in both academic and non-academic areas and finally ranked cumulatively. Thus, it is hoped that a narrow and crucial miss by one per cent shall not make or break the life of a student.
The unhealthy competition centred around marks sometimes drive students and parents paranoid. Occasional reports of sensitive and vulnerable students ending their lives due to insufficient marks makes one wonder if there is a flaw in the education system.
It is factors like this, which has led to the introduction of grading system for the SSLC (Secondary School Leaving Certificate) examination.
This new system is divided into three sections with added emphasis on non-academic fields. Part 1 consists of subjects and examinations comprising 50 per cent of the total. 20 per cent is allotted to Practicals, Assignments and Seminars. Part 2, comprising of 20 per cent, lays emphasis on work experience, art, health and physical education, while Part 3 lays stress on conduct, leadership qualities, school club activities, sports etc. Internal assessment determines the grades.
Will this new system benefit the student or is it just another experiment? Says Father Charles Koroth, Principal of Sacred Heart Higher Secondary School, Thevara, "The new grading system is a balanced and wholesome form of education, as the students are ranked in non-scholastic fields too. However, the teachers' help is paramount for this system to be a success. For it is the teachers who have to scan the students, identify their talents in non-academic areas and encourage them to bring out their best."
However, some teachers are sceptical. They feel the workability and success of it can be determined only after a few years of its inception. For, they are of the opinion that the students already have a lot on hand and are unsure of how they will cope with the new projects, assignments etc. Thus a lot of planning has to be done to set the system rolling. But they don't disagree on the benefits of the grading system.
Ms. Usha Kiran, the District Education Officer waives such doubts. Says she, "it is natural for some teachers to feel uncertain on the introduction of the grading system, as they were hitherto not given the facilities to put this system into practice. Many teachers have a lot of inner strength that they are not aware of which can make them identify the talents of the students and encourage and inspire them. Thus teachers should have a positive outlook and feel confident so that they can put their resources to good use". The system thus calls for more interaction between students and teachers apart from mere academics, and is sure to make teaching and learning, a fulfilling experience.
According to the system, Grade A stands for 80 to 89 per cent, followed by A+ that is, 90 to 100 per cent. Thus a 91 per cent scorer who needs A+ to qualify is a winner. But what about the hapless 89 per cent scorer? Would he not have missed the boat by just one per cent?
"That may be true," says Sister Teresa Lonan, Principal of St. Mary's High School, Fort Kochi. "But the emphasis laid on marks is less glaring in grading as it encourages students in other spheres. Grading system definitely retards unhealthy competition. The students thus will be less pressurised from home and school to secure more marks. However, economically backward students may find it tough as they may require computers, library books for data, assignments. This too, in course of time should be rectified".
Mr. Joseph Martin, Principal of S.R.V High School says, "there is no doubt that the grading system is a wholesome form of education. It provides ample scope for betterment. Further, weak students who fail to score more marks are given a choice to excel in other areas of their liking and thereby come out successful."
Thus, what this system endeavours is to provide a curriculum with a difference: one that balances excellence in academics and all round physical and mental development.
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