On March 17, 2025, the Romanian Language and Literature written test took place as part of the National Evaluation simulation for the 8th grade, marking the beginning of this year's assessments across the country. This year, the simulation was particularly rigorous, organized at 143 centers throughout Bihor county.
A total of 4,757 eager students participated, showcasing their preparedness for the challenges posed by the examination. Notably, there were no special situations reported during the test, and every student completed the exam without any eliminations.
The simulation continues with the Mathematics test scheduled for March 18, 2025, followed by the Mother Tongue Language and Literature test on March 19, 2025. Notably, 70 students had requested accommodations for adapted exam conditions, which were honored at 29 centers.
The tests begin at 9:00 AM, with students allowed entry until 8:30 AM. Each student was allotted two hours to complete their work starting from the distribution of the test papers. For this year's simulation, papers were distributed as double-sided booklets, and students had the option to request additional pages if necessary.
Innovatively, all written tests were scanned within the classroom, with immediate evaluation on a digital platform. This digital transition, which began earlier in 2024 for national exams, ensures secure and efficient processing of results. Results will be communicated on March 31, 2025, using individual codes to maintain anonymity. Parents and students should note: this privacy measure means results will not be publicly accessible, but they will be discussed and analyzed within school environments.
The simulation's design reflects changes within the educational sphere, as educators push for higher standards and readiness among students. Teacher Ionela Neagoe, principal of the Gheorghe Lazăr National College, has voiced her belief on the need for higher difficulty levels, stating, "e bine să le dea mai greu la simulare" (it is good for them to receive tougher questions during the simulation). She argues the challenging nature aids students, deeming it a "reset" for their evaluation process.
Reflections from students varied, with some expressing anxiety about the subjects. A student indicated expecting grades between 7-8, demonstrating optimism tempered by apprehension. Another student, willing to praise the difficulty, acknowledged the necessity of serious preparation for the simulation outcomes.
Adding to the dialogue, Professor Cătălin Zaman commented on the trend of increasingly difficult tests, stating, "Cred că sunt subiecte mai grele, comparativ cu simulările din alți ani" (I believe the subjects are harder compared to previous simulations). This statement highlights the educational shifts prompting enhanced expectations and tougher evaluations to encourage students to excel.
Results from the simulation will not be recorded permanently, as teachers aim to focus more on formative feedback rather than mere grades. Exceptions exist if students or their guardians formally request documentation concerning the evaluations.
To support teachers, the Ministry of Education has provided additional guidelines to assist evaluators and educational staff throughout this structural transition. This approach emphasizes the ministry's commitment to fostering transparency and educational rigor.
For schools, the results will serve as feedback tools. They will trigger discussions with students aimed at strategizing improvements and adopting supportive measures to boost academic performance. Teachers will engage with parents and administer school board meetings to address the next steps.
Overall, these simulation evaluations not only assess current student abilities but also signal the educational sector's intentions to prepare students thoroughly for future examinations, reinforcing the importance of quality education across Romania.
Through these challenges, changes undertaken this year reveal an educational system eager to adapt and promote academic success among its youth. The goal remains steadfast: ensuring students are ready for the National Evaluation and whatever lies beyond.
