CILT statement on changes to GCSE languages assessment

'Recent press reports have created a perception that proposed changes to the assessment arrangements for GCSE foreign languages will lead to a lowering of standards. This is unfortunate, as above all we need to hold on to the value that language learning has for learners, employers and for academic study. The misunderstanding perhaps arises from a misplaced confidence in the existing system of measuring oral competence. We concur with Lord Dearing that the current arrangements can be demotivating for pupils – not only because they are stressful, but because the tasks involved are not creative or stimulating. Bringing in more teacher assessment is an opportunity to correct this, not a threat to standards, but it will need to come with more training, support and appropriate monitoring arrangements.'

Full press statement from CILT:

http://www.cilt.org.uk/news/latest/2008/19_02_oral.htm