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Understanding the PSLE AL Score and the New PSLE Scoring System

The Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) has long been a critical milestone in Singapore’s education journey. In recent years, there have been significant changes to how students are assessed, particularly with the introduction of the Achievement Level (AL) system. This new PSLE scoring system marks a shift from the traditional T-score to the AL score format, aiming to alleviate academic pressure while encouraging a broader learning approach. This article delves into understanding what the new PSLE scoring system entails, how the PSLE AL score is calculated, and its implications for students and parents.

What is the PSLE AL Score?

The PSLE AL score is a new grading format introduced to replace the T-score. It classifies students’ performance into Achievement Levels (AL) from AL1 to AL8, with AL1 representing the highest score. The system breaks down each subject into these ALs based on a student’s performance:

  • AL1: 90-100 marks
  • AL2: 85-89 marks
  • AL3: 80-84 marks
  • AL4: 75-79 marks
  • AL5: 65-74 marks
  • AL6: 45-64 marks
  • AL7: 20-44 marks
  • AL8: Below 20 marks

The primary objective of the AL score system is to reduce the stress related to excessive competition. By focusing on wider grade bands, it aims to encourage meaningful learning instead of mere examination performance.

What is the New PSLE Scoring System?

The new PSLE scoring system transitioned from the traditional T-score to the AL system in 2021. This significant shift aims to place emphasis on a student’s individual achievements rather than their relative performance against peers. The AL system groups scores into broader bands, each represented by the aforementioned AL scores. A student’s overall PSLE score is the sum of the AL scores achieved in each subject.

For example, if a student scores AL2 in English, AL1 in Mathematics, AL3 in Science, and AL4 in Mother Tongue, their total PSLE score would be 10 (2+1+3+4). Lower scores indicate better performance in the new system.

Differences Between the Old and New PSLE Scoring Systems

The previous T-score system calculated a student’s score based on their relative performance compared to their peers. This meant that the score depended not only on the individual’s achievement but also on the performance of other students. It led to excessive competition and stress for students striving for higher T-scores.

Advantages of the New PSLE Scoring System

The new PSLE scoring system introduces a series of benefits that align with Singapore’s broader educational goals:

  1. Reduced Stress and Competition: By focusing on absolute achievements, students experience reduced stress to outshine their peers.
  2. Holistic Development: With emphasis on broader learning, students are encouraged to explore co-curricular activities and personal interests.
  3. Transparency and Simplicity: The AL scoring is more intuitive for parents and students to understand compared to the T-score calculation.

Impact of the New PSLE Scoring System on Secondary School Placement

The PSLE AL score plays a crucial role in determining which secondary school a student qualifies for. Each secondary school has specific cut-off points (COPs) based on the total AL scores achieved by students who applied previously. The following aspects are essential to consider for parents and students:

  1. Choice Order: With the new system, the order of secondary school choices matters more than ever. If two students have the same total AL score, the one who listed the school higher on their preference list will be given priority.
  2. Affiliated Schools: Students applying to secondary schools affiliated with their primary schools receive bonus points, making it easier to qualify.

Conclusion

The transition to the new PSLE scoring system and the introduction of the PSLE AL score represent a major shift in Singapore’s education landscape. The system prioritizes holistic learning and aims to alleviate stress among students by focusing on individual achievements rather than relative performance. Understanding how the AL system works is essential for parents and students as they navigate this new framework. By focusing on broader learning and personal progress, the PSLE AL score system lays the foundation for a balanced and fulfilling education journey.

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