PT3 format will also be used next year

PETALING JAYA: This year’s new PT3 format will be used for next year as well, says the Examinations Syndicate.

It said this was in line with the Education Ministry’s effort in implementing a more enhanced PT3 (Form Three Assessment).

“The ministry wants to strengthen the implementation of school-based assessments, and this will be done by bolstering PT3 from 2020 (onwards).

“This is to give more autonomy to schools in managing education assessments, and to uphold the teaching profession by recognising teachers’ expertise and role.

“Starting this year, the PT3 format will be developed according to the suitability and needs of the Secondary School Standard-based Curriculum (KSSM).

“We have taken into consideration the views of students, teachers, administrators and parents through a study on the implementation of PT3 since 2015,” it said in a statement yesterday.

Last week, The Star reported that there will be three big changes in the PT3 examination this year under a new format.

The changes include written exams for History and Geography, as well as the introduction of multiple choice questions (MCQs) and two new subjects, said Examinations Syndicate policy management and development sector head Dr Rahimah Adam.

Question papers for written exams this year will be prepared by the Examinations Syndicate but come next year onwards, the syndicate said, question papers will be prepared by schools using question banks and guides provided by the syndicate.

School-based assessments (PBS) were introduced to Year One pupils in 2011 and to Form One students in 2012.

There are four components in PBS namely, class-based assessments, center-based assessments, physical activity, sports and co-curriculum assessments, and psychometric assessments, the syndicate explained.

“Through PBS, students are able to improve their achievement according to their capabilities.”

The strengthening of PT3, the syndicate said, will be implemented by maintaining centre-based assessments for five subjects and 18 other subjects for summative assessments for lower secondary schools.

“Centre-based assessments refer to assessment carried out through a shared accountability between the Examinations Syndicate and schools, where written test papers will be prepared by us and the administration of the assessments is managed by schools.

“Summative Assessments are like end of year examinations; fully carried out by schools,” it said.

Changes to the PT3 format and its strengthening, the syndicate said, was held with the National Union of the Teaching Profession and 30 representatives from various teachers associations and unions on Dec 11 last year.

“State education departments were also informed through a circular dated Nov 29, who then informed schools December last year.

“More details on the PT3 format can be obtained at www. lp.moe.gov.my,” it added.