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08/29/2007: "British dumb down science tests so more pass"

Examiners will have to set easier questions in some GCSE science papers, under new rules seen by The Times. A document prepared by the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ), which represents awarding bodies across Britain, says that, from next year, exam papers should consist of 70 per cent .low-demand questions., requiring simpler or multiple-choice answers. These currently make up just 55 per cent of the paper.

The move follows growing concern about the .dumbing down. of science teaching at GCSE and grade inflation of exam results, which critics claim is the result of a government drive to reverse the long-term decline in the number of pupils studying science.

[ Backwards logic: adjust the test to fit the population, so the same amount pass. We'll recalibrate IQ next. ]

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/education/article2344054.ece