Since the CBC education system was unveiled, it has been a learning process at every stage as the implementation process continues to say the least. Previously, we were used to only having the Standard 8 pupils sitting for national examinations that would then determine the secondary schools that they’ll be admitted to. However things have drastically changed ever since, the now grade 6 pupils are also assessed before proceeding by the Kenya National Examinations Council.
The Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) introduced the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) for grade 6 pupils as part of the Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC). This article highlights KPSEA certificate, detailing its unique characteristics and subjects it evaluates among other things like how KNEC does grading.
Quick Summary
- KPSEA Certificate: Specific to grade 6 pupils, distinct from other KNEC certificates.
- Format: Issued in softcopy, downloadable by school heads via KNEC’s portal (cba.knec.ac.ke).
- Details Included: Assessment center, pupil’s number, name, gender, but no passport photo.
- Subjects: English Language, Kiswahili Lugha, Mathematics, Integrated Science, and Creative Arts and Social Studies.
- Grading: Based on Performance Levels 1 to 4, with Level 4 indicating exemplary performance.
- Criteria: Emphasis on knowledge, skills, and attitudes/values assessed.
Understanding the KPSEA Certificate
Subjects Tested
Grade 6 pupils are assessed in the following subjects:
- English Language
- Kiswahili Lugha
- Mathematics
- Integrated Science: Includes Science and Technology, Agriculture, Home Science, Physical and Health Education.
- Creative Arts and Social Studies: Covers Social Studies, Art and Craft, Music, Religious Education.
Grading System
The grading for KPSEA is done on four performance levels:
- Performance Level 1: Below expectation. The learner requires assistance to display knowledge, skills, and attitudes/values.
- Performance Level 2: Approaching expectation. The learner occasionally displays knowledge, skills, and attitudes/values.
- Performance Level 3: Meeting expectations. The learner usually meets the assessment tasks.
- Performance Level 4: Exceeding expectations. The learner consistently and accurately displays the assessed attributes.
Certificate Authenticity
The KPSEA certificate’s authenticity is ensured through several features:
- Learner’s particulars
- School stamp and head teacher’s signature
- Download date.
- Watermark of KNEC’s logo
Final Thoughts
The KPSEA certificate reflects the CBC’s focus on holistic education, emphasizing a comprehensive evaluation of a pupil’s competencies across diverse subjects. This approach aims to nurture well-rounded individuals by assessing their knowledge, skills, and attitudes/values, thereby fostering a more thorough and meaningful educational experience for grade 6 pupils in Kenya.