Junior Cycle Reform at Lower SecondaryMay 2013

Why change?

• ESRI research - evidence base for junior cycle review

• 1st year, 2nd year, 3rd year

• nature of engagement

• Request for advice from Minister and DES

• Innovation and Identity- Ideas for a New Junior Cycle

(2010) discussion paper• PISA

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The new junior cycle

• Greater flexibility and autonomy for schools

• Clarity on junior cycle learning – a different kind of

core

• Focus on the programme as well as the exam

• Key skills development

• Access to a more varied curriculum/curriculum

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Level 2 short course

Most students will include from eight to ten full subjects or their equivalent

Seven subjects + 2 short courses or 6 subjects + 4 short coursesEight subjects + 2 short courses or 7 subjects + 4 short courses

Nine subjects + 2 short courses or 8 subjects + 4 short courses

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Main features of the Framework for Junior Cycle

Main features of the Framework for Junior Cycle

Assessment and Moderation Toolkit

Denise KellyApril 2013

Level 2 Programmes

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Features of Level 2 Learning Programmes

• Defined target group, range of settings• Based around Priority Learning Units (250hrs)

• Communicating and literacy• Numeracy• Personal Care• Living in a community• Preparing for work

• PLUs set out in elements and learning outcomes – a learning menu

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Features of Level 2 Learning Programmes

• For introduction in 2014 with other junior cycle changes

• Personalised• 2 short courses (100 hrs each)• School-based assessment• Student not confined to L2 learning only

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Level 2 short course

Level 2 ToolkitAVAILABLE ONLINE FOR TRIAL

www.ncca.ie/level2toolkit

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