National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN)

In May 2013, as part of the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN), national tests will be held in literacy and numeracy for all students in Australia at Years 3, 5, 7 and 9.

The tests will be completed between Tuesday 14 May and Thursday 16 May 2013.  Friday 17 May is scheduled as a ‘catch-up day’ for students who were absent on a test day. The format will be identical for both Years 7 and 9.  On Tuesday 14 May boys will complete a 45 minute test on Language Conventions (comprising spelling, grammar and punctuation) and a 40 minute test on Writing.  On Wednesday 15 May they will complete a 65 minute test on Reading.  Finally on Thursday 16 May they will complete an 80 minute Numeracy test (comprising number, algebra, functions and patterns, space, measurement and chance and data).  This test will be broken into two 40 minute sessions.  Students will be able to use calculators in the first session but they will not be allowed the use of a calculator in the second session.

All students are expected to participate in the tests.  Students may be considered for exemption only if:

• they have been in Australia for less than 12 months and have a language background other than English;
• they have significant intellectual disability and/or significant co-existing conditions which severely limit their capacity to participate in the tests.

Students may be withdrawn from the testing program by their parent/guardian.  This is a matter for consideration by individual parents in consultation with the Headmaster. Withdrawals are intended to address issues such as religious beliefs and philosophical objections to testing.  If you have concerns in regard to your son’s participation in NAPLAN please contact Ms Julia Shea, Deputy of Stanmore/Head of Learning and Teaching, as soon as possible.

Access to disability provisions for these tests should be discussed with Mrs Rebecca Panagopoulos by phoning 9568 9527. Provisions which reflect the student’s normal level of support in the classroom will be provided.

Additional information about NAPLAN can be found at http://www.naplanforparentsnsw.com.au

Parents will receive information on their child’s performance through the individual reports that will be compiled for each student.  The tests will provide information on how students are progressing against national benchmarks. Results will be posted home as soon as they become available. This is usually in late September.