Gove brings grammar back into exam marks

The current grading system is set to be scrapped because of concerns that it does not allow people to “discriminate” between pupils of different abilities.

The latest plan was confirmed in a report from exams regulator Ofqual, published yesterday, as Education Secretary Michael Gove outlined his plans for GCSE reform. Under his proposals, teenagers in England will study the likes of Austen, Dickens and Wordsworth in English Literature, advanced algebra, statistics and probability in maths and complete an in-depth study of one of three historical periods in history. More of each pupil’s attainment will be judged on the strength of their grammar.

Mr Gove published details of the content of new GCSEs in key subjects including English, maths, science and the humanities to be taught from 2015. The Government wants pupils to be tested in the summer after two years’ study – abolishing a modular system which allows exams to be sat throughout courses.

Ofqual’s consultation document also suggests looking to cut the number of subjects which have tiered exams – papers aimed at high and low ability students. Coursework is only set to be allowed in subjects where exams cannot test certain skills.

Mr Gove insisted there was a “widespread consensus” that reform was needed to restore public confidence in GCSEs.