Teachers' forum urges simplification of SSLC exams with 23 recommendations

NT Correspondent Bengaluru: The Social Science Teachers' Forum has submitted 23 key recommendations to the Karnataka School Education and Assessment Board (KSEAB) aimed at reforming the SSLC annual examination process. One of the proposals is to combine internal and external exam marks to determine a student's passing grade, allowing those who perform below average to pass through more supportive and "student-friendly" question papers. The forum suggests that the SSLC question paper is currently more challenging than that of the second PU, leading to an appeal for simplification to better suit the age and capabilities of Grade 10 students as per reports.

Under the proposed design, the question paper would total 125 marks, with students required to answer questions amounting to 80 marks. The forum argues that the lack of diversity in the SSLC exam structure contributes to difficulties for students, as it currently includes only five types of questions, compared to the PU history exam, which features nine different types. By creating a new question paper design starting this academic year, the forum aims to facilitate passing for all students, ensuring a more equitable assessment system that reflects their learning abilities and supports their educational journey. Recently, Minister of School Education and Literacy, Madhu Bangarappa, announced in Bengaluru on October 9 that grace marks would no longer be given for SSLC exams starting from the 2024-25 academic year. He outlined examination reforms, including live streaming, webcasting, and CCTV installation at all examination centres, aimed at curbing malpractices.

He stated, "On the instructions of the Chief Minister, it has been decided not to give any type of grace marks to students appearing for the SSLC examination in 2025." Previously, 10 per cent grace marks were granted due to the pandemic, but this policy will be discontinued moving forward.