Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2023
298. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Education if she is aware of concerns expressed about the challenging nature of Leaving Certificate 2023 maths paper 1; if she will ask the State Examinations Commission to examine these concerns and respond to them; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29195/23]
View answerI am very much aware of the impact Maths Paper 1 Higher Level has had on students, parents and teachers, however, the State Examinations Commission (SEC) has responsibility for the operation, delivery and development of the State examinations.
The examination paper development process involves a multi-stage process of drafting, setting, translating and various layers of oversight and scrutiny. Those involved are experts in the subject who are also experienced teachers.
Each year the Commission receives commentary and observations about the content and level of difficulty of the examination papers from students, parents, teachers, professional bodies and other interested parties.
I understand that all such correspondence is brought to the attention of the Chief Examiner and is considered in the refinement of draft marking schemes. The approach taken by the SEC to the development of the final marking schemes ensures consistency in the marking and fairness to candidates.
