Higher level maths uptake surges

The decision of nearly 26% of maths students to take the higher level exam this year has been hailed as welcome news by Education Minister Ruairí Quinn.

However, it appears that the record 13,041 Leaving Certificate students who did so were more influenced by the awarding of extra points by the CAO if they pass higher-level maths than they were by the ongoing controversial reforms to the second-level syllabus. Only two years ago, less than 16% of maths students took higher level, but that rose to 22% a year ago after most colleges offered 25 bonus points.

The State Examinations Commission said it is believed that this, rather than the roll-out of Project Maths, has been by far the most significant factor in raising uptake of the tougher exams. It is ironic at a time when efforts to reform college entry are trying to sway focus away from CAO points and to allow schools get on with teaching the subjects rather than concentrating on exam preparation.