Maths on a Monday might not be everyone's idea of a perfect start to the week, BUT that's another big one out of the way. Well done!
Once again, Maths teachers Brian Scully and Jean Kelly, from The Institute of Education, share their reaction to the Higher and Ordinary Level Paper 2 with RTÉ Learn. It's part of their Leaving Cert review series.
You can watch Brian's Higher Level video up top, and keep reading for Jean's thoughts on the Ordinary Level exam.
Download the exam papers here:
The Irish-language and Foundation Level exam papers can be accessed at examinations.ie in their Exam Material Archive section.
Brian says: "Many students will have entered the exam anxious that Paper 2 would be a contrast to the reassuring and approachable Paper 1. Thankfully, this paper's composition was mindful of the impact of question order and importance of clarity on those navigating the paper."
Key takeaways
- This paper was a good mix of the causal language and novel questions that gradually increased the challenge of the paper.
- Students will be pleased to find that there were no gremlins that might unfairly trip them up.
Jean says: "Many students will have left the exam hall on Friday bolstered by an accessible Paper 1 and driven to prepare for Paper 2. Those students will feel a reassuring sense of resolution as their work paid off."
Key takeaways
- This paper asked on every element of the course set for Paper 2, even the rarely seen Sets.
- Questions were short, precise and unambiguous.
The questions drew from well-worn material that students will have covered countless times in the run up to their examinations. Those who worked through the sample paper will recognise the nearly identical Q3 (B) and Q4 (C). The questions were short and to the point, leaving no room to get lost in lengthy workings. Some will have felt that the paper led their hand through the material in a way that would be reassuring.
The questions asked on everything, even the rarely seen Sets which made its third appearance in 14 years. Despite the breadth of the material, the questions were snappy and neatly itemized so students could deal with each bit individually. While some parts were heavy in Statistics and Probability, students will be relieved that their archnemesis trigonometry made only a quick appearance.
The students sitting this paper knew exactly what they were being asked to do and should leave with a clear appraisal of how they performed, with many happy that they have secured what they need for their courses. All in all, a good resolution to their time with Leaving Cert Ordinary Level Maths.
Make sure to take some time to rest and recharge every day. You can see some great tips for sleeping, eating and de-stressing here.
Check out study tips and much more on RTÉ Learn here!
