Greater weightage to be given for theory in ISC exam

The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) has changed the marking scheme of its Class XII examinations from 2016 onwards.

Under the new scheme, greater weightage will be given to theory. Hitherto, equal weightage was given to theory and practicals in six subjects -- Indian classical music (Hindustani), Indian classical music (Carnatic), western music, computer science, fashion designing and physical education. But from the 2016 examination, there will be 70 per cent weightage to theory and 30 per cent to practicals.

This initiative, understandably, has evoked mixed response. Robin Colaco, ISC coordinator at the St Joseph’s Boys High School, said that the move could put at disadvantage students who are good at practicals but weak in theory. “Giving equal weightage was probably a better option,” he said. However, he said that the move may help streamline admissions after Class XII.

Gerry Arathoon, Chief Executive Officer and Secretary of CISCE, said that the move was initiated to take into consideration the requirements of the universities. “While all subjects already had a 70:30 pattern of marking, these six subjects had a 50:50 and universities insisted that the students have the 70:30 one. To make it easier for students, we have decided to shift to this model,” he said. All school heads have been informed about the change.As many as 71,141 students from 909 schools affiliated to the council all over India have registered for the ISC exam and will appear for 58 different subjects comprising 15 Indian languages, eight foreign languages and three classical languages.

A Class XII student who has taken up physical education as one of her subjects said that the move would help bring about uniformity and also help them as it would facilitate easier access to higher education institutions.

Srikantham Nagendra Shastry, head of the department of music, Maharani’s Arts College, said the move would make students bookworms who treat music as history and science but hardly help them become practical musicians. He urged the authorities to rethink on this matter.

John Zachariah Principal, Bishop Cotton Boys School, however said that it was a step in the right direction.