Think you know a lot about Dickens? Then who's this Herbert character? | Zoe Williams
Briefly

The recent GCSE examination raised eyebrows with its choice of focus on Herbert from Charles Dickens's Great Expectations, a character typically considered secondary or forgettable. Many students, parents, and teachers felt this unusual decision strayed from more commonly analyzed characters like Pip or Estella. The article illustrates the broader educational implications and frustrations stemming from exam content that may not align with students' knowledge or expectations. The peculiar focus on Herbert, instead of central figures, has become a talking point among parents and students, reflecting concerns about the examination system's coherence and relevance.
The English paper set by a major examining board featured Herbert from Great Expectations, a character that perplexed students and parents alike.
Herbert, often forgotten and overshadowed by more prominent characters, represented a frustrating challenge for students tasked with analyzing his character in their GCSE.
The focus on Herbert reflects a deeper issue within the educational system, where exam questions can sometimes feel disconnected from students' actual learning experiences.
This unusual choice of character has sparked conversation among parents and students, highlighting the often arbitrary nature of exam content.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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