Past PSLE papers to be released in exam format from this year

SINGAPORE - Primary Six pupils will now be able to attempt actual PSLE examination papers from the previous three years.

The Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board (SEAB) announced today that they would release the papers in examination format for all subjects annually, for both the standard and foundation levels.

Primary 5 pupils are currently offered a mix of standard or foundation subjects, depending on their aptitude in each subject as determined by their performance in their Primary 4 examinations.

SEAB has released past year PSLE questions since 1993, but they have been categorised by topics for Mathematics and Science, and by item types for English and Mother Tongue languages.

For 2015, the release will include PSLE papers from 2012 to 2014, and will be available at major bookstores from Saturday.

SEAB Chief Executive Ms Tan Lay Choo explained that publishing the PSLE questions in examination format "aims to provide students and parents with greater clarity on the overall standard of PSLE".

"We hope parents will be better informed in supporting their child for the PSLE, while bearing in mind the importance of giving their child time and space to pursue other meaningful activities and personal interests," she added.

In a Facebook post, Education Minister Mr Heng Swee Keat commented that he was happy with SEAB's decision, so that "students can have a better sense of the types and spread of questions that let all students show subject mastery".

Mr Heng said the change will allow students to prepare well for the examination - "not to over-prepare and spend excessive time on drill-and-test, but to free up time for play" - while also ensuring that students would not be under-prepared.

"I hope this will help students better achieve their potential, and enjoy their learning," he said.

seanyap@sph.com.sg