Social Subjects (Society) and RME Jane Henderson, Qualifications Development Manager Scottish Qualifications Authority
New National Qualifications Support aims, purposes and principles of Curriculum for Excellence Support learning – assessment follows the curriculum which must provide relevant, challenging and enjoyable learning experiences Provide progression from Experiences and Outcomes and maximize curriculum continuity between levels Provide more flexibility and learner personalisation and choice Encompass both breadth and depth Ensure a coherent subject experience Build on existing strengths – the reputation, standards, reliability and validity of Scottish qualifications
National 3National 4National 5HigherAdvanced Higher Classical Studies History Geography Modern Studies RMPS 3 Units3 Units + AV Assignment 3 Units QP + Assignment 3 Units QP + Assignment Units + Project People and Society 3 Units3 Units+ AV Assignment --- Politics---3 Units QP + Assignment -
Engagement and feedback Local Authorities, Further and Higher Education Subject specialists, professional associations, key stakeholders Learner engagement CARG/QDT/SWGs CfE Liaison Team Have your say
Provide progression Clear progression routes N3 to Advanced Higher Classical Studies Geography History Modern Studies Religious, Moral and Philosophical Studies Politics (at Higher only) New Courses People and Society Award in Religion Belief and Values
Assessment supporting learning Use of assignments to assess Added Value Units at N4 Use of assignments to assess application of skills in Course Assessments at N5 and Higher Question Papers focusing on Knowledge and Understanding Learner engagement confirms direction of travel
Flexibility and choice Classical Studies: choice of literary texts Geography: wide choice of global issues History: very wide choice of historical periods and contexts Modern Studies: wide choice of international issues Politics: choice of international comparisons RMPS: very wide choice of religions, moral issues and philosophical questions Assignment: free choice of appropriate topic/theme/issue/questions
Key messages Method of Assessment: assignment Changes since draft publication Amendments/clarifications to Outcomes and Assessment standards in all Courses Progression issues in History
Unit Assessment Support SQA is currently developing Unit Assessment Support packages There will be 3 packages, per subject, per level October 2012, February 2013 and April 2013 Each package will illustrate a different approach: Unit by Unit Combined Portfolio
Unit Assessment Support October 2012: Package 1 will illustrate Unit-by-Unit assessment i.e. how to meet all of the requirements of each Unit February 2013: Package 2 will illustrate Combined assessment i.e. how to draw together appropriate Learning Outcomes and Assessment Standards across more than one Unit April 2013: Package 3 will illustrate Portfolio assessment i.e. how to build a portfolio of evidence