Analysis of 2025 Junior Cert Science Exam: Accessibility and Fairness

On June 9, 2025, Liam Hennelly, a science educator from Belvedere College SJ in Dublin, described the Junior Certificate (Junior Cert) science examination as 'an accessible and reasonably fair paper.' This assessment follows a broader trend in educational evaluations aimed at balancing rigor with student capability. Hennelly highlighted that the structure of the exam allowed students to engage comfortably with the material, which is crucial for fostering confidence in academic settings.

The exam was divided into two sections. Section A featured ten questions, with a predominant focus on Chemistry, which accounted for four questions, while Biology and Physics each had three and two questions, respectively. A question on Earth and Space also appeared in this section. According to Hennelly, the content in this section was straightforward, enabling students to accumulate marks effectively.

Conversely, Section B presented a greater challenge with only four questions, markedly different from previous iterations of the exam. The distribution of marks was also notable; the first question (Q11) was valued at 30 marks, while subsequent questions (Q12–14) were each worth 60 marks.

Hennelly pointed out that the questions integrated various strands of the curriculum, a shift that encourages comprehensive understanding. For instance, Question 11 focused on Electricity and delved into circuits with an emphasis on resistance as demonstrated by a thermistor. Question 12 examined Rates of Reaction, illustrating the relationship between reduced surface area of villi in the small intestine and potential malnourishment. Such interdisciplinary questioning is increasingly relevant in contemporary science education.

Question 13, which encompassed Earth and Space as well as Physics, required students to interpret data, identify whether a diagram depicted a solar or lunar eclipse, and discuss the societal and environmental implications of technological applications in physics. This aligns with the educational trend of emphasizing real-world applications of scientific concepts, as noted by Dr. Emily Roberts, a lecturer in Science Education at Trinity College Dublin. Dr. Roberts stated, 'Integrating real-world applications into exam questions promotes critical thinking and helps students relate their learning to everyday life.'

While the overall feedback regarding accessibility was positive, Hennelly expressed concerns regarding the lack of choice in the examination and the challenge posed for more advanced students. This sentiment resonates with ongoing debates within educational circles about maintaining rigor while ensuring fairness in assessments. According to Dr. James O'Sullivan, an education policy analyst at the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA), 'The balance between accessibility and challenge is crucial for fostering a robust learning environment. Adjustments may be necessary to better cater to a diverse range of student abilities.'

The Junior Cert science exam serves as a reflection of the evolving landscape of educational assessments in Ireland, highlighting the need for continuous evaluation and adaptation of curricula and examination formats to meet the diverse needs of students. As educational stakeholders review this year's exam, future iterations may incorporate more varied question formats and choices to engage students effectively.

In conclusion, while the 2025 Junior Cert science exam was deemed accessible and fair, it also raised critical questions about the balance of difficulty and inclusivity in educational assessments. As Ireland continues to strive for excellence in education, ongoing dialogue among educators, policymakers, and academic professionals will be essential in shaping a curriculum that supports all learners.