GCSE sciences, criteria agreed

In December Ofqual, together with its regulatory partners in Wales (DCELLS) and Northern Ireland (CEA), published new criteria for GCSE science subjects on which the 2011 specifications will be based. The criteria aim to address concerns about a decline in GCSE examination standards detailed in reports published by Ofqual in March 2009, and by SCORE, the science community representing education, in July.  

According to Ofqual, the 2011 specifications will have to ensure that they have a valid assessment model for 'How Science Works' and individual assessments will have to discriminate accurately across the full ability range of candidates. There is more detail given on assessment generally and 'controlled assessment' is defined as being 'directly related to candidates' practical work'.