Some views about the Maltese language SECE

Abstract

Examinations should not be seen as an isolated activity. They are an essential element of the teaching and learning processes in schools as they provide a framework in which educational objectives may be set and pupils' progress charted and expressed. Language tests can be an asset because they provide relevant feedback on the strengths of language teaching programme (Bachman& Palmer, 1996). Because of the communicative nature of language use 'language teaching has developed enormously in recent years ... ' (Underhill, 1987: 5). This development has also been seen locally with the inception of the new SEC System of external examinations run by the MATSEC Examining Board of the University of Malta. These exams serve as a benchmark and assess the attainment of 16+ candidates taking them. One such exam is the Maltese SECE and, like all other SEC Exams, certifies achievement in the Maltese Language according to the student's competence. As this external national exam is considered extremely important by those students seeking post-secondary and tertiary education views of teachers (in State, Church and Private Secondary Schools), lecturers and assistant lecturers, syllabus and paper setters, markers and the chairperson of the Maltese SECE could very well contribute towards the enhancing of the Maltese Language 16+ SEC exam.