In bid of improving candidate’s performance, West Africa Examination Council [WAEC] do compile the general weaknesses observed in the students and how it thus affects the general score. In line with this, the following reasons are the reasons why candidates fail 2012 physics WAEC as released by the council. Prospective candidates and Subject’s instructors are kindly admonished to take heed.
Candidates Weaknesses
Weaknesses observed are as follows:
- inability to express themselves in simple English Language
- poor computational skills
- lack of basic knowledge on the principle of physics e.g. magnetic lines of force, keepers, energy, transformation in x- ray production inability to indicate unit of calculated values
- inability to differentiate between “driven wheel” and driving wheel”
- poor conceptualization of critical angle and vector quantities
- inability to apply physics principles/concepts to real life situations.
Suggested Remedies
The following were put forward by the chief examiners to address the weaknesses
- Text books should be written to address application-based questions.
- Inspection of teachers by the ministry of education Inspectorate division should be aimed at correction and not vindication
- students should be assessed based on their efficiency from time to time
- Teaching and learning materials should be adequately provided in schools
- School authorities should provide conducive learning environment
- Candidates should improve on their mastery of English Language
- Candidates should prepare adequately for examination rather than relying on “expo” and other examination malpractices tactics
- Qualified and experienced physics teachers should handle the teaching of the subject.
- Teachers should be encouraged by way of improved salaries, ICT facilities and workshops within and outside the country
Candidate’ Strength
Candidates have improved on:
- Resolution of vectors Descriptive aspect of physics
- Stating faradays 1st law of electrolysis;
- methods of reducing surface tension and the principle of conservation of linear momentum.
- Definition of terms
- Good time management since they were able to answer all the question within the stipulated time.
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