Introduction to BECE
The Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) is a pivotal examination for students completing Junior High School (JHS) in Ghana. It serves as the primary criterion for placement into Senior High Schools (SHS) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions across the country. The BECE certifies the completion of basic education and assesses students' academic preparedness for secondary education. The final results are a composite score, with 30% derived from continuous assessment throughout JHS and 70% from the external examination conducted by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).
Core Subjects and Their Scope
All candidates registered for the BECE take a set of core subjects designed to provide a broad and balanced education. These include:
- English Language: Focuses on developing proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Components include comprehension, grammar, composition (essay writing), and literature.
- Mathematics: Aims to build a strong foundation in mathematical concepts and problem-solving skills. Key areas include number and numeration, basic algebra, geometry and measurement, and data handling (statistics and probability).
- Integrated Science: Provides an introduction to the fundamental principles of biology, chemistry, physics, and agricultural science. It emphasizes understanding scientific concepts, practical skills through experiments (where applicable), and awareness of science in everyday life and the environment.
- Social Studies: Explores the history, geography, civics, and socio-economic environment of Ghana and its place in Africa and the world. The subject aims to instill a sense of national identity, responsible citizenship, and an understanding of societal issues.
- Information and Communications Technology (ICT): Equips students with foundational knowledge and skills in using computers and other digital tools. Topics include basic computer operations, word processing, spreadsheets, internet usage, and the societal impact of ICT.
Other Compulsory and Optional Subjects
- Religious and Moral Education (RME): Focuses on the major religious traditions in Ghana (Christianity and Islam) and promotes universal moral values, ethical behavior, and respect for religious diversity.
- Basic Design and Technology (BDT): This is a practical-oriented subject that allows students to choose one option from areas such as:
- Home Economics: Covers topics like food and nutrition, sewing, and home management.
- Pre-Technical Skills: Involves basic woodwork, metalwork, technical drawing, and plastics.
- Visual Arts: Introduces basic concepts in drawing, design, color work, and craftwork.
- Ghanaian Language and Culture: Students study one Ghanaian language (e.g., Akan, Ewe, Ga, Dagbani, depending on the school's offering and region) focusing on proficiency and understanding of the associated culture and traditions.
- French: Often offered as an optional subject, it aims to provide basic communicative competence in the French language (listening, speaking, reading, and writing).
Grading and Placement
Performance in each BECE subject is graded, and these grades are used by the Ghana Education Service (GES) for placement into Senior High Schools and TVET institutions through the Computerized School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS). The selection process considers the candidate's grades, choice of schools, and declared vacancies in those schools.
Checking BECE Results
Candidates should purchase a WAEC results checker scratch card and follow the instructions provided by WAEC to check their results online via the official portal when they are released.
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