POINTS SYSTEM

HAVING no doubt targeted June 2020 as the month in which they would sit their state exams, Leaving Cert students instead had to contend with the impact of Covid-19 which ultimately put an end to the possibility of exams taking place. Instead, a new calculated grades system is in place.

And, though this is the system through which the vast majority of students will be graded, it is also worth remembering that the new points system, introduced in 2017, is in place.

The new method, which entails a change in the way points were awarded, is designed to ease the pressure on students and reward academic achievement. It was also designed to encourage students to take up subjects at a higher level, and remove the need for random selection when it comes to students getting a place on a college course.

While many would consider the Leaving Cert process to be a competitive one, under the previous system, it took very little to make a major difference. For example, the reduction in the number of grade bands from 14 to 8 means that the pressure to get a marginal one or two percent gain to earn more points is less of a factor. Now, with wider bands covering up to ten percentage points, the difference between a major gain or loss in terms of points is not as significant, and therefore reduces questions of what might have been for students.

Similarly, the new system also encourages students to choose a subject at higher level. Under the previous system, no points were awarded for any grade under 40pc. Now, however, students who fail to break the 40pc threshold but receive a marginally lower grade can still be awarded points (up to 33) if they take the subject at higher level. This should encourage those who may previously, under the old system. have been reluctant to take the subject at higher level due to worries about reaching 40pc.

Above all, the new system allows for less need for random selection when it comes to deciding places on a college course, meaning it is now more likely that if you get the points required, you will get the place on your desired course.

The calculated grades system of 2020, in place due to the absence of formal state examinations, is a new departure. It is expected that the grades awarded will be broadly in line with other years in terms of the wider allocation of marks across the board.