In a move aimed at promoting holistic student development, the Ministry of Education (MOE) in Singapore has unveiled a new scoring system for the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) starting in 2025. This new system builds on the Achievement Level (AL) grading system introduced in 2021, while introducing several modifications that focus on individual growth and reducing academic pressure for students.
The changes are designed to ensure that students are assessed based on their achievements rather than relative performance. This, according to MOE, will help students develop in a more balanced and well-rounded way. Here’s a breakdown of the new system and what parents and students need to know.
Overview of the New PSLE Scoring System
The PSLE scoring system will continue to utilize the AL system, which was introduced in 2021. Under this system, each subject is graded on a scale from AL 1 to AL 8. AL 1 represents the highest achievement, while AL 8 represents the lowest. The total PSLE score is determined by adding the ALs for four subjects, with the best possible total score being 4.
This system is intended to reduce the fine differentiation between students, shifting away from the older system that assigned letter grades based on relative performance. The aim is to focus more on the individual student’s abilities and achievements, rather than comparing them with their peers.
The AL system also applies to Foundation-level subjects, where students are graded from AL A to AL C. These grades are then mapped to AL 6 to AL 8 of Standard-level subjects. This ensures that students who take Foundation-level subjects are fairly assessed and placed in the appropriate academic stream.
Key Changes in the 2025 PSLE Scoring System
1. Achievement Level (AL) Scoring System
The AL scoring system will continue to be at the heart of the new PSLE scoring model. Each of the four subjects English, Mathematics, Science, and Mother Tongue will be graded on this scale. This grading system aims to minimize academic pressure by ensuring that a student’s score is reflective of their own efforts, rather than how they compare to others.
This change is part of a broader shift towards reducing the overall emphasis on grades and fostering a more balanced educational experience for students.
2. Foundation-level Subjects
For students who take Foundation-level subjects, there is a slight difference in grading. These students will receive ALs ranging from A to C, which will then be converted into the range of AL 6 to AL 8 for the purpose of calculating their overall PSLE score. This ensures that students are not penalized for taking Foundation-level subjects, which are designed to help students who may need extra support in specific areas.
3. Mother Tongue Language Exemption
Under the new system, students who are exempted from Mother Tongue Language (MTL) for valid reasons, such as those with special learning needs, will receive a score between AL 6 and AL 8. This adjustment ensures that these students are not disadvantaged when applying for secondary school places.
Additionally, students who opt to study Higher Chinese Language (HCL) or other Asian/foreign languages will have their achievements reflected in the PSLE scoring system. The eligibility criteria for these languages will be clearly defined, ensuring that students are appropriately placed based on their language proficiency.
4. Secondary School Posting and Subject-Based Banding
The introduction of Full Subject-Based Banding (SBB) in secondary schools aligns with the new PSLE scoring system. SBB allows students to take subjects at different levels based on their strengths and interests, moving away from rigid streaming systems. This shift will help cater to the individual learning needs of students, allowing them to excel in areas where they are strong and receive support in other areas where necessary.
A Move Toward Holistic Development
The goal of these changes is not just to make the PSLE a more accurate reflection of a student’s academic abilities, but to promote holistic development. By reducing the emphasis on comparative scores and offering students more opportunities to excel in areas where they are most capable, the new system aims to reduce stress and provide a more balanced approach to education.
MOE has consistently emphasized the importance of developing well-rounded individuals, and this scoring system is one step toward achieving that. Students will be encouraged to participate in co-curricular activities (CCAs), volunteer work, and other experiences that contribute to their personal growth, not just academic achievement.
Implications for Students and Parents
For parents and students, the new system may require a shift in mindset. While the PSLE will continue to be an important milestone in a child’s educational journey, it will no longer be the sole focus. The emphasis will be on the individual student’s progress and achievements, rather than on their standing relative to others.
Parents are encouraged to support their children’s development in a variety of areas, from academics to co-curricular activities, ensuring that their child’s growth is not limited to just one aspect of life. This broader approach will help students become more confident and well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
Conclusion
With these changes, the Singapore education system continues to evolve, focusing on nurturing well-rounded individuals who are ready to succeed not only in academics but also in life. As we look ahead to 2025, the new PSLE scoring system promises to be a positive development that benefits students, parents, and the wider educational community.
