Science was a difficult paper — BECE candidates in Bolgatanga

Some candidates in the just ended Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region say the Integrated Science Practical paper was too difficult for them to answer.

According to the fresh Junior High School (JHS) graduates, even though they adequately prepared for all the nine subjects written within the week, the Integrated Science, especially the Practical paper was a challenge to them, and that would likely affect the outcome of their results.

The graduates expressed their frustrations in a random interview carried out by the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Bolgatanga after the week-long examination, which began on Monday, November 15, to Friday. November 19, 2021.

Ms Ayishetu Dramani, from Saint Clement JHS in the Bolgatanga Municipality, said, “The Science was my challenge, especially the Practical 'A' paper. The question was twisted in such a way that I didn't understand.”

According to her, the entire Science paper was not difficult, but the Practical aspect was her problem, adding that, her performance in the Science paper may affect her grade in the BECE.

“Now that I am done with JHS, I will be helping my Aunty to run her 'chop bar' business so that she will support me to proceed to the next level. I want to study Home Economics, and my dream is to become a nurse.”

Master Joseph Suglo, from the Yorogo JHS, said, “I am hoping I will get aggregate 15 because the Science paper was difficult.”

Another graduate from Abilba Number Two JHS, Ms Janet Dimah, said the entire examination was good, but was also quick to complain about the Integrated Science paper, “The Science paper was difficult, and the time was not enough for us to answer the questions. I will either get grade two or three in Science.”

Asked what she would be doing pending the release of the results, she said she planned to learn dressmaking and hopes to further her education at the Wesley Girls Senior High School.

Ms Augustina Atiah, also from Saint Clement JHS similarly expressing her frustration about the Science paper, and said, “The Practical 'A' part was difficult, the question was twisted and I didn't understand it.”

The candidates started the week-long examination with Social Studies and French Language papers, and subsequently continued with Mathematics, Basic Design and Technology, English Language, Religious and Moral Education, Integrated Science, Ghanaian Language, and ended with Information Communication and Technology on Friday.

Mr Nathaniel N-yaaba, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Ghana Education Service (GES) in an interview with the GNA, admonished the graduates to continue to read their books and stay off acts that would affect their growth and development into responsible citizens, especially acts of alcoholism and drug abuse among others.

GNA