Writing the final cheque for business

WITH the changes to the Junior Cert, this was the final year of the business papers as we have known them and probably the last time that a cheque will appear in a question, as it did on yesterday’s ordinary level paper.

Under the reforms, there will no longer be both higher and ordinary level in this subject and students will sit a common level written exam, as well as doing two classroom-based assessments.

The first of yesterday’s higher level papers was well received, according to Ruairi Farrell, a TUI subject representative and a teacher at Coláiste Chraobh Abhann, Kilcoole, Co Wicklow.

He liked the topical questions on the impact the US decision to reduce corporation tax would have on Ireland’s national budget and, another, on Ireland’s failed bid for the 2023 Rugby World Cup, both allowing students to apply their knowledge.

Higher level paper 2, although also well received, was challenging in parts, according to Mr Farrell. One example he gave was a ‘post-Brexit’ question on trading in the eurozone instead of the UK.

Mr Farrell said, at ordinary level, there were a few questions that candidates needed to take their time to read carefully, but there was plenty of choice.