WEAKNESS/REMEDIES
CANDIDATES’ WEAKNESSES
The following were some of the weaknesses noticeable in the candidates’ scripts:
- Inadequate knowledge of art history
Candidates’ understanding in art history remained evidently modest. Candidates often demonstrate an apparent lack of knowledge of any art tradition outside Nigeria. This manifested in a common evasion of Questions 4, 6 and 7 and abysmal response to question 3, where they could not articulate the rationale for diviners’ patronage of traditional African art.
- Inconsistent presentation of points
Candidates as usual, found it difficult to organise their points coherently. In most cases, responses were disorganised and lacked coherence. This is usually the case when candidates are ill prepared for an examination.
- Inappropriate use of answer booklet
The use of answer booklets by candidates was rather awful. A good number of candidates wrote their responses to the same question on different pages without any indication of such. Some others also answered two or more questions on the same page. These are unacceptable by any standard, as candidates were expected to answer a fresh question on a new page in the answer booklet.
4. SUGGESTED REMEDIES
The following are some of the remedies to the weaknesses identified above:
(1) Improved Knowledge of art history
It is a widespread but erroneous belief that competence in art revolve solely around practical skill in drawing and painting. It should however be noted that art history is as important as the practical aspects since it has always been critical for visual artists to be able to understand and give a logical expression of the content and context (background) of their art forms. In view of this, it is imperative for candidates to make concerted efforts on grasping the theory (including the history) of art. The WASSCE syllabus for Visual art stipulates that candidates will be assessed, not only in the practical areas, but also in the theoretical aspects such as General knowledge in Art and the history of West African Art, Western and Oriental art. Thus, it is only appropriate for teachers and students to sufficiently integrate the knowledge of these areas with the practical components. Candidates should read books on art and art history as much as they practice drawing and painting and they should also practice with past questions.
(2) Improved understanding of English Language
Candidates should make effort on improving their understanding and use of the English Language. This will enable them to comprehend the requirements of questions, as it will also facilitate logical expression and coherent presentation of points. They can approach this by devoting quality time to reading books, novels, journals, etc.
(3) Appropriate use of Answer booklets
Candidates should make efforts to acquire the proper orientation on the use of answer booklets. The standard in WASSCE and other public examinations is for candidates to start answering a new question on a fresh page rather than muddling two or three answers together on the same page.
