The Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) is a big step for students in Singapore. The Ministry of Education (MOE) has created a new scoring system called the Achievement Level (AL) scoring system. It replaces the old T-score system. This article will explain what the PSLE AL score is and how the new PSLE scoring system works, in simple language.
What is the PSLE AL Score?
The PSLE AL score is a new way to grade students in each subject they study. “AL” stands for Achievement Level. The scores range from AL1 to AL8, with AL1 being the best. This new system makes grading simpler and focuses more on how well students understand their subjects.
Each subject a student takes will get an AL score. The overall PSLE score is the sum of these four AL scores. The total score decides which secondary schools the student can apply to.
How the AL Score System Works
The AL score system groups students into wider score ranges. This makes it less competitive. Here is a simple table that shows the AL grades:
| Achievement Level (AL) | Mark Range (%) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| AL1 | 90-100 | Excellent |
| AL2 | 85-89 | Very Good |
| AL3 | 80-84 | Good |
| AL4 | 75-79 | Satisfactory |
| AL5 | 65-74 | Fair |
| AL6 | 45-64 | Pass |
| AL7 | 20-44 | Weak |
| AL8 | Below 20 | Very Weak |
This way of grading helps students focus on learning instead of just competing for higher scores.
Main Features of the New PSLE Scoring System
- Achievement Levels (AL): Each subject gets a score from AL1 to AL8, where AL1 is the highest level.
- Total AL Score Calculation: The total AL score is the sum of the AL scores from each subject. The best total score a student can get is 4 (if they get AL1 in all subjects), and the worst score is 32.
- Wider Score Bands: This system uses wider score bands, so it’s not about small differences in marks anymore.
- School Placement Based on Scores: Students get placed in secondary schools based on their total AL score, making it easier to understand.
Tips to Do Well in the New PSLE System
To get a good PSLE AL score, students should focus on understanding their subjects better. Here are some easy tips to help improve scores:
- Know the AL Scores: Understand what marks you need to reach each AL level.
- Practice Regularly: Practice helps in subjects like Math and Science.
- Work on Weak Areas: Spend more time on subjects where you are not doing well.
- Ask for Help: If you do not understand something, ask your teachers or a tutor.
Benefits of the New PSLE Scoring System
- Focus on Learning: The AL scoring system encourages students to enjoy learning.
- Less Stress: Students do not need to worry about small differences in marks.
- More School Choices: Students can choose from more schools based on their scores.
Understanding School Cut-Off Points
The new AL scoring system changes how secondary school cut-off points are set. Now, schools use the total AL score to decide who gets in. Here are some things to know:
- Direct School Admission (DSA): If you have special talents like sports or music, you can still get into good schools, even if your AL scores are not the highest.
- Choosing Schools: It’s now easier to understand how to choose a school that matches your AL score.
How to Choose the Best Secondary School
When you pick a secondary school, think about more than just your scores. Here are some tips to help:
- School Strengths: Some schools are good at sports, while others focus more on studies.
- Visit Schools: Go to open houses to learn more about the school’s environment.
- Talk to Others: Ask current students and their parents about their experience with the school.
Adjusting to the New Scoring System
The new PSLE AL scoring system may take some time to get used to. Here’s how you can adjust:
- Focus on Improvement: Encourage your child to focus on getting better at their subjects.
- Set Small Goals: Make small goals for each subject to help them do better.
- Celebrate Progress: Even if they don’t get the top AL score, celebrate their progress and hard work.
Conclusion
The PSLE AL score and the new PSLE scoring system are made to help students focus more on learning and less on comparing with others. This system is fairer, and it encourages students to do their best in each subject. Parents and students should focus on learning, set small goals, and enjoy the learning journey.
With the new PSLE scoring system, students can aim to learn and grow. This will help them do well in their PSLE and get into the right secondary schools for their future success.
