“Principal Poon Says” - Why are there no exams for Primary One students?
Since assuming the position of Principal at our school in September 2022, Principal Victoria Poon has led us steadily forward in various aspects such as teaching and learning, curriculum development, parent-school cooperation, and school governance. Despite having a lot on her plate, Principal Poon believes that the most important thing is to help parents better understand their own thoughts on education and learn more about the school's development, making the school the most reliable partner for parents on their educational journey.
We are honored that Principal Poon has taken the time to talk to us. Through the "Principal Poon Says" column, she will provide concise and clear answers to questions of concern to many parents and students. As this month is the application period for our Primary One enrollment, we have received many inquiries from parents asking why there are no exams for Primary One students and if there are other assessments. Below, we have invited Principal Poon to provide a detailed explanation on how to assist students in their learning and progress through assessment.
We believe that in the early years of primary education, students should not be defined by scores, especially for children who have just transitioned from kindergarten to Primary One. Instead, we should focus on cultivating students' learning motivation and self-confidence.
For example, if a student scores 80 points, it may be difficult for Primary One children to understand the meaning of the 20 points lost, and they may not necessarily make progress from it. Therefore, we do not conduct exams for Primary One students and encourage them to learn in a relaxed and enjoyable environment to adapt smoothly to Primary One life.
We believe that assessments are an important component of school teaching that can help students, parents, and teachers understand students' learning progress and achievements, as well as identify their problems and needs, and thereby formulate appropriate learning plans and curricula. Assessments can target different learning objectives and subject characteristics, and choose appropriate assessment methods, including teacher observation, assignments, daily quizzes, and exams.
Based on the education system and secondary school admission arrangements in Hong Kong, assessments and exams are still necessary. However, during the entire assessment process, we emphasise most on how students reflect on themselves. Since 2021, after each exam, we invite Primary Two to Primary Five students to fill out a “reflection form”, which allows students to reflect on their learning methods, whether they are too careless, whether they are serious about their learning attitude, and so on. Then, the students and teachers review and improve together to find suitable study methods and patterns for each individual student.
"Reflection forms" have received positive feedback from both teachers and students. I think there are two main benefits:
Firstly, teachers and students agree that "learning is not about scores", and that it is important to focus on whether students can learn and acquire knowledge.
Secondly, it provides students with a "tool" for reflection, allowing children to systematically review their strengths and weaknesses and helps them improve.
We have a clear set of "student learning outcomes" that we hope students can achieve over their six years of primary education:
Love of learning: We believe that every child is born with a love of learning, and we hope that these six years will lay a solid foundation for children to find the right learning methods and continue to love learning.
Confidence: Knowing their own abilities and hoping to have the ability to accomplish more.
Positive attitude: Maintaining curiosity, being willing to try, and having high expectations of themselves.
Thank you, Principal Poon, for sharing with us. Next time, we will continue to invite Principal Poon to discuss other issues of concern to parents. See you next time!