The Unit offers their services to students via the National Diagnostic Tests (NDT) in:

• Mathematics and English

• Common Entrance Examination (CEE)

• School Leaving Examination (SLE)

• CXC

• GCE

• London Examinations

National Tests/Examinations

The Unit administers the following National Tests/Examinations:

A. The National Diagnostic Tests

These tests are curriculum based and diagnostic, they are offered to students of Grade 2 and 4 in English and Mathematics. The main purpose of this form of testing is to enhance the teaching and learning process in the School System. The tests are administered during the first term of the school year, so that the teachers can assess whether students possess the necessary knowledge and skills which they showed have acquired at the previous level. These tests were also initiated because

1. There was no systematic instrument to measure students’ performance prior to the Common Entrance Examination.
2. Literacy and numeracy levels in the primary school system are unsatisfactory.
3. Schools need to be more equitable in terms of student performance.

B. The Common Entrance Examination

This examination is a diagnostic instrument which is offered to: candidates from Grade 6 classes who are between the ages of ten years six months and thirteen years six months on September 30th in the examination year. Candidates from Grade 5 classes who are between the ages of ten years six months and thirteen years six months on September 30th in the examination year are also allowed to write the examination.

Purpose of CEE

The examination seeks to:

• Diagnose students’ strengths and weaknesses.

• Assign students to Secondary School.

• Inform stakeholders on the performance of students in the subjects offered.

Structure and Format

The examination offers English, Mathematics and General Paper.

C. School Leaving Examination

This examination is written by those students who do not attain the minimum marks in the Common Entrance Examination. These students are promoted to Grade 7 and are allowed to write the examination at the end of Grade 8.

Students are tested in English Language, Mathematics, General Science, Health and Family Life Education, Social Studies and Home Economics/Industrial Arts.

Purpose

The examination is offered for placement of students in Form 2 of Secondary Schools.

EXTERNAL EXAMINATIONS

The Assessment and Evaluation Unit co-ordinates and administers examinations for a number of external bodies including

1. the Caribbean Examinations Council (bi annually)
2. University of Cambridge – GCE (O, AS, and A Levels)
3. University of London – GCE (bi annually)

The Unit also assists with the administration of final examinations for several courses offered by the University of London including:

• LLB

• Law with Management (B Sc.)

• Management with Law (B Sc.)

• Accounting (B Sc.)

• Diploma in English