New Examination and Evaluation System Introduced for Class V and VIII Students in the Maharashtra State

Pune, 8th December 2023: The Maharashtra State’s Education Department has announced a comprehensive examination and evaluation procedure for Class V and VIII students, introducing a significant shift in the assessment framework. The move aligns with the recent amendment to Article 16 of the Right to Education Act, making annual examinations mandatory for these classes. The new system emphasizes continuous assessment, and re-examination opportunities, and addresses concerns regarding student progression and expulsion.

Examination Structure:

– For Class V, subjects include first language, second language, third language, mathematics, environmental studies part one, and part two.

– For Class VIII, subjects comprise first language, second language, third language, mathematics, science, and social sciences.

– Each subject carries a total of 50 marks for Class V and 60 marks for Class VIII, divided into oral or practical tests (10 marks) and written tests (40 or 50 marks).

Re-Examination Opportunity:

– Students failing the annual examination will have the chance to re-examine in June.

– If unsuccessful in the re-examination, students will be retained in the same class.

– No expulsion will occur until the completion of primary education as mandated by the Right to Education Act.

Assessment Criteria:

– Minimum 18 marks (35%) in each subject for Class V.

– Minimum 21 marks (35%) in each subject for Class VIII.

– The assessment will be based on the syllabus, curriculum, and expected academic performance of the second semester.

The implementation timeline for the educational system entails the organization of annual examinations at the school level during the second week of April. The announcement of results, encompassing evaluations for both Class V and VIII, is slated to occur at the culmination of the academic session.

Committees at the State, District, Taluka, and Central levels will oversee and control the annual examination and re-examination processes. Specific functions for these committees have been outlined to ensure effective implementation. Also, Marks will be awarded instead of grades on the mark sheet. Students failing to achieve the minimum required marks have the opportunity for re-examination, with a maximum concession of 10 marks.