AMID RISING concern about the performance of students in maths and science, the Junior Cert results published this morning show some encouraging trends.
At just under 3 per cent, the failure rate for higher level maths is the lowest since the syllabus changed in 2003, while the percentage of candidates gaining an A, B or C grade is up - with almost four out of every five students getting an honour in the subject.
The picture in ordinary level maths is more mixed, however. More than three-quarters of students gained an A, B or C grade, a marginal increase on last year. However close to 7 per cent failed the exam, compared with just over 2 per cent in 2004.
Last night, Minister for Education Batt O'Keeffe said it was heartening to see the number of students taking higher-level maths in the Junior Cert had increased to almost 43 per cent of the overall numbers taking the subject.
He said over two-thirds of students who took science opted for higher level. Almost 80 per cent gained an A B or C at higher level, and very few failed the exam.
Mr O'Keeffe said he hoped students would continue with science subjects when planning Leaving Certificate subject choices.
The high numbers taking higher level maths in the Junior Cert will raise further questions about maths in the Leaving Cert exam. While 23,000 take the higher paper in the Junior Cert, only about 8,500 sit the Leaving Cert higher maths paper.
Last night, maths teacher John Brennan of the Ballinteer Institute said: "No other subject shows such large numbers taking a higher level subject at Junior Cert level, only for two-thirds of them to drop down to ordinary level come the Leaving Cert."
More than 5,000 students failed Leaving Cert maths at higher, ordinary or foundation level.
Calling for a change in the curriculum, Ibec's Siobhán Masterson criticised the Junior Cert as "archaic and out of touch with the needs of our society and economy".
In an effort to address the problem with maths, a new pilot initiative, Project Maths, will this month see phased introduction of revised courses at Junior Cert and Leaving Cert level, beginning with an initial group of 24 schools.
There will be a stronger emphasis on application of maths and better professional development for teachers.
Students will be able to access results at www.examinations.ie from 4pm today, quoting their personal identification number (PIN) and examination number.
Mr O'Keeffe said he hoped students would enjoy themselves sensibly and responsibly in celebrating their achievements today.
"They should celebrate with their families and close friends and not put themselves or others at any risk," he said.
Applications for review of Junior Certificate results, which must be made through the candidate's school, should arrive at the State Examinations Commission no later than 5pm on Friday, September 26th. The fee for this service is €30 for each subject, which is refunded in the event that a result is upgraded.