PUBLIC CONFIDENCE in the Leaving Cert could be damaged if project work in several subjects is not supervised more rigorously, according to the Teachers' Union of Ireland (TUI).
The TUI move comes amid claims by some second-level teachers that grind schools are bending the rules on projects in history, geography and home economics.
There have also been claims that parents - and not students - are preparing the projects.
While stressing her overall support for project work, TUI education and research officer Bernie Judge said yesterday that teachers are increasingly worried about students plagiarising material from the internet or other sources - and the failure to vet this.
There was, she said, a lack of clear guidelines for teachers, school principals, students and parents as to how project work must be implemented nationally so that they remain an equitable form of assessment for all students.
The TUI, she said, has long been a strong advocate of project work/second assessment components as they are designed to test valuable knowledge, skills and competence, which are not easily tested through the written exam papers. But the union also has serious concerns in relation to how implementation is currently resourced and supported.
Meanwhile, ASTI president Patricia Wroe yesterday told the 114,000 second-level students facing Leaving and Junior Cert exams to keep things in perspective and "to take special care of yourself over the next three weeks".
She said: "Examinations are important, but they are not everything. Your aim over the coming weeks should be to look after yourself and do the best you can."
Her advice is to eat healthily, take some exercise, and get plenty of rest and sleep. "If you feel anxious remind yourself to keep things in perspective - no examination determines your worth as a person. Once an exam is over, forget it. Move on. There is nothing you can do, so analysing any exam once it is completed is of no benefit to you - or your friends."
Ms Wroe pointed out how each exam gives you an opportunity to demonstrate what you know and is not designed to catch you out. Think positively - each exam is a new opportunity for you to do the best you can on that particular day. There is still some time each day to focus prior to each exam on key points, so use time wisely.
"Know that in spite of the hype, no exam is make or break - there are lots of real alternatives open to each person. You are not on a high wire, so stay calm."
Ms Wroe has also sent out a message of thanks to teachers in second-level schools around the country. "Our teachers have taught, supported and guided their students over the past number of years. We are lucky to have a highly credible examinations system in Ireland, one which is widely recognised and respected both nationally and internationally. Teachers feel proud of their students when they see them reach their individual goals within the Leaving and the Junior Certificate examinations."