VIII. A. Read the article "Exams your child willface in Secondary School" by Lorna Smith.

Examinations are rites of passage in a child's life: defining moments by which much that hap­pens before or after is measured. A lot rides on them too: a coveted University place, or the entrance onto the training course to follow the career the child has always dreamed of. Yet for many parents and those not directly involved in schools, the examination system is a confusing set of acronyms, levels and grades. This article will help to demystify some of the jargon and explain exactly what goes on. For each sei of examinations covered, it will look at what the exams consist of and what the exam 'means' to the child and the future of their academic career.

Key Stage Three Standard Assessment Tests (SATs)

Tests at the end of Year 7 and 8 (ages 11 and 12 years) are now growing in importance and are a useful preparation for the KS3 SATs, designed to measure a child's progress in the first three years of Secondary school. As well as sitting papers in English, Maths and Science, the child's teachers will produce Teacher Assessment levels which are seen to be as important as the formal Tests.

What is covered?

• English: Reading, writing; a scene from a Shakespeare play prepared in class.

• Mathematics: Algebra, handling data, measuring, number, shape and space, mental arith­metic.

• Science: Physics, Biology and Chemistry. Levels:

• Most children score between levels 3 and 7, with 5 being the average.

• For children who are not expected to reach Level 3, alternative Tests are run in the class­room with teacher support.

• For higher achievers there is the option of sitting the extension paper in each subject. If they do well enough, the child is awarded level 8 or EP - exceptional performance. The school will provide further information if they recommend entering your child.

The SATs results arrive in school by the end of the year. They may be used to help set or band students for GCSEs, but have no more bearing than that. They are not mandatory outside the state sector and thus many Independent schools do not hold the Tests.

General Certificates of Secondary Education (GCSEs)

At the same time as your child is involved in the KS3 Tests, they will need to choose their GCSE options. These are the most important exams that a child has yet had to face, as the results have a real bearing on their future. They are often the passport to further study: if the child is going to stay on at school / college for A Levels or GNVQs, GCSE grades are an important indicator of ability and potential; if they are hoping to begin an apprenticeship or other work-based training, GCSEs are a valuable proof of commitment.

The curriculum:

• Obligatory subjects are Maths and English, as well as a science, a modern foreign language and Design and Technology (which may be studied as short courses).

• The student can opt for a variety of other GCSE courses.

to modem apprenticeships - are being replaced with new "foundation apprenticeships". These will offer an alternative for those who lack the academic ability to tackle vocational GCSEs, and will be a way on to new, "advanced apprenticeships".

Independent schools

Independent schools do not have to teach the national curriculum, although many are already following all or most of it. They say it reflects the broad and balanced curriculum they have always advocated.

(From BBC)

> Notes:

Apprenticeship - a period of time at the beginning of smb's career during which he gains experi­ence in a particular area of activity or work which will be useful to him later.

B. Compare the British national curriculum and the national curriculum in this coun- try. Say if you see many differences between them.

C. Note down any causes you can think offor the introduction of the national curricu- lum to state schools in Great Britain.