An English exams regulator aims to tackle ways ‘irrelevant features’ disadvantage pupils, potentially resulting in exam question changes from spring 2022.
Exam boards could be asked to avoid using “complex language” including colloquialisms, sarcasm and idioms in assessments to make them more accessible for pupils.
Ofqual, the exams regulator in England, has published draft guidance aimed at tackling the ways in which some pupils are “unfairly disadvantaged by irrelevant features” in exams, making it harder to determine their knowledge, skills and understanding.
This includes pupils who are deaf, blind, autistic and dyslexic, as well as those who have English as an additional language, and those who are unfamiliar with certain humour and customs, as well as housing, family arrangements and certain cultural, social or travel experiences.
Read the full article at English exam boards may be asked to avoid ‘complex language’ | The Guardian.