Ask AI: Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement definition With references from 2019 to 2024

The Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) is a comprehensive national policy framework for curriculum and assessment for schools in South Africa. Officially implemented in 2012, CAPS provides guidelines on what is to be taught and assessed on a grade-by-grade and subject-by-subject basis starting from Grade R (reception year) through Grade 12. It ensures uniformity in curriculum delivery across various schools and is designed to streamline previous curriculum structures with the ultimate aim of improving the quality of education within the country. The policy outlines the following key elements: 1. The specific aims and objectives of the curriculum. 2. The content to be covered, broken down into clear, grade-specific topics. 3. Assessment guidelines, detailing how learners should be evaluated, including both formative assessments (ongoing evaluations to monitor learning progress) and summative assessments (evaluations at the end of a term or year to determine learner achievement). Furthermore, CAPS emphasizes learner-centered education, aiming to develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a deeper understanding of subject matter. Updating the relevance of information with references between 2019 to 2024, CAPS continues to undergo revisions and adjustments to stay aligned with educational best practices. For instance: 1. **Department of Basic Education South Africa (2019)**, the annual teaching plans and assessment guidelines were refined to focus on identified core skills and outcomes. 2. **Motshekga, Angie (2020)**, the necessity for updates to the CAPS to incorporate more technological and digital literacies within the curriculum framework, reflecting global trends. 3. **Western Cape Education Department (2022)**, the introduction of new subject offerings and alignment with job market needs was a focal point in recent curriculum updates. 4. **Amendments and adaptations (2023)** due to unforeseen circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which necessitated adjustments in teaching and assessment strategies to accommodate remote learning environments. For precise contemporary references from 2019 to 2024, consulting specific publications, releases, or briefing documents from the South African Department of Basic Education would provide the most accurate and updated information.