Problem Solving Assessment (PSA) for Class XI in January 2013

It is a widely acknowledged fact that research and analytical skills, ability to apply basic concepts of different subjects, solve application based problems in Mathematics and Science, comprehend and analyse written texts and effective communication are the skills which ensure success in higher studies and professional areas. These dimensions of 21st Century life skills will greatly assist learners in acquiring higher order thinking skills such as Problem Solving and Decision

Making.
It is in this connection that the Board is planning to initiate a `Problem Solving Assessment’ (CBSE-PSA) for students of Class XIfrom the second term of this session 2012-13

The features of the Problem Solving Assessment’ (CBSE-PSA) are as follows: –

It will be compulsory for all students of Class XI and carry 90 marks. There will be 60 items of MCQ type.

There is no specific syllabus for PSA. It will assess the following areas:-

• Quantitative Reasoning (found in mathematics, science and technology)
• Qualitative Reasoning (found in humanities, arts and social sciences)
• Language Conventions

The items will incorporate aspects of 21 Century Skills (Creative Thinking, Decision Making, Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, and Communication) that lead to success in University studies. They should be able to assess student’s ability to process, interpret and use information rather than assess student’s prior subject matter knowledge.

The Assessment will contain items that will assess written expression, including grammar and usage, vocabulary in context and passage-completion.

The items will be able to assess students’ ability. The test items will be so designed that they will also help in improving scores within the core school subjects as the Problem Solving Assessment test items are designed to improve generic and higher order thinking skills.

All items will be prepared in Hindi and English.

The ‘Problem Solving Assessment’ (CBSE-PSA) will be done during the month of January – February 2013 for students of Class XI.

The Class XI students will get a certificate on the ‘Problem Solving Assessment’ (CBSE- PSA).

There will be no separate time tables or periods for teaching or practice of PSA in schools.

The quantitative domain of the CBSE – PSA would make comparatively modest domains on mathematical knowledge but would emphasize logical and numerical reasoning and use of basic mathematical knowledge.

 

For details and example questions visit : CBSE Circular here