Not easy just complicated (From Barry And District News)

Not easy just complicated

WITH the pass rate up again for A-levels and GCSEs we asked if exams are getting easier.

Peter Tierney, 69, of Lower Morel Street, said: "If the pass rate keeps going up exams must be getting easier. I'm always surprised to see how poor young people are at doing the basics, such as spelling and adding up."

Naomi Cox, 18, of Wenvoe Terrace, said: "I sat my A-levels this year and had to put in a great deal of hard work. I certainly don't think that exams are getting easier. I think people get the impression that they are because of the new modular system."

George Golder, 72, of Slade Road, said: "I think exams have become too easy. My daughter is a nurse and it took her five years to get her nursing degree."

.

Christine Clarke, 70, of Pencoetre Road, said: "I think exams and the subjects taught at schools are far more complex now than in my day. I think young people work hard and deserve the results they achieve."

Lilian Griffett, 77, of Camrose Court, said: "I think exams are easier in the sense that candidates don't have to use their brain as much now. Young people are dependent on computers."

Claire Lawrence, 22, of Hannah Street, said: "I did my GCSEs at Bryn Hafren and have just completed a course to work as a medical secretary. I think exams probably are getting easier."

Joe Henley, 72, of Burnham Close, said: "I don't think there is any difference in the standards of exams. I think they are just as difficult as ever."