PSLE T-score to be replaced with wider scoring bands from 2021

THE aggregate score that is awarded to each student at the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) will be replaced with wider scoring bands from 2021.

The examination will instead adopt scoring bands similar to those used for the O levels and A levels, and is part of a major push to reduce an over-emphasis on academic results, said Acting Education Minister (Schools) Ng Chee Meng in Parliament on Friday.

The changes will affect this year's Primary One cohort, and Mr Ng added that his ministry will not rush the implementation.

"The current PSLE system is well-established and we must be fully ready before moving to the new system. So we will take the next few years to work through these changes carefully," he said.

The T-score, also known as the transformed score, is used to standardise raw scores and rank pupils relative to others. Mr Ng admitted that the way the T-score is calculated "may have also created unhealthy competition" among pupils in Singapore.

The new scoring system will better reflect their learning and level of mastery of the subjects.

"Once a student shows a level of understanding and ability that meets the professionally-set standard, he will receive the grade, regardless of how his peers perform. This is more educationally meaningful," said Mr Ng.