The physics SEC 2000 examination : a focus on the differentiated paper system

Abstract

This research centres on Physics SEC examination for May 2000 using MATSEC data. All the different components of this examination were analysed so as to shed light on whether this system is upholding quality, equity and fairness. This study aims at drawing out any distortions that decrease the validity of the system. This research puts forward evidence that an appreciable number of high ability candidates, who should have opted for Paper A, sat for the easier Paper B. This crossover to the softer option distorts the final grade of the candidates. The end result is that, not only the lower ability paper-B candidates are at a disadvantage by being normreferenced with some very able candidates, but also the high ability candidates undertaking Paper A are finding it harder to access the higher grades since there are fewer candidates of average ability.