Written answers

Thursday, 15 March 2012

Department of Education and Skills

School Curriculum

1:00 pm

Photo of Gerald NashGerald Nash (Louth, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 43: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he is giving consideration to making science compulsory at leaving certificate level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14803/12]

Photo of Ruairi QuinnRuairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

My Department is fully committed to strengthening the quality of science teaching and learning, promoting increased scientific literacy and encouraging more students, both girls and boys, to choose science subjects. I am encouraged by the significant increase in the number of students applying to the CAO for science courses this year.

An important element of the Strategy for Science Technology and Innovation 2006 - 2013 is to increase the proportions of students studying the physical sciences in senior cycle. Revised draft syllabuses in Physics, Chemistry and Biology have been developed by the NCCA which provide a strong focus on practical investigative approaches and practical assessment, as a follow on from the changes introduced at junior cycle in 2003.

The recent consultation on these syllabi by the NCCA has just concluded. The Department is awaiting the NCCA's proposals on Leaving Certificate Science Syllabuses.

Overall, I am in favour of leaving the decisions on what is offered at the discretion of the school, and of students having a range of options to choose from. Good and enthusiastic science teachers have the opportunity to inspire a real interest in their subject and so ensure that pupils will want to choose to study their science subject in senior cycle.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.