National Tests

C

hildren in Years 2 to 9 now take national tests in reading and numeracy each summer. Schools have always used tests to check how well children are doing. Having national tests developed especially for use in Wales means that teachers in all schools have the same information on the reading and numeracy skills of their pupils. The tests can show where individual children might need more help to improve their skills. 

The reading tests are made up of short questions based on two or more texts. Some of the questions check how well the text has been understood, others aim to find out if children are able to make judgements about what they are reading. Before the start of the test, children try out some practice questions so that they will know what the different types of questions are like and what they may be asked.

There are two kinds of numeracy tests.

1. The procedural test measures skills in things like numbers, measuring and data.
2. The reasoning test measures how well children can use what they know to solve everyday problems.

The tests can provide useful information to add to what your child’s teacher already knows about their reading and numeracy skills from their work every day in the classroom. Teachers can use the results to identify strengths and also areas where more help may be needed. The test results should arrive back in school by the end of the Summer Term at the latest.  We will send this information home as soon as we receive them.

 This year the children will be taking the tests between Tuesday 3^rd May and Tuesday 10^th May.  This will involve the following classes: Dosbarth Coala, Twcan, Llew and Rhino Gwyn. Please can you ensure that your child is in school during this period and that they arrive in school on time so they do not miss any part of the test.

Over the next few weeks in class the children will be revising skills taught from the LNF in a fun and relaxed way and will have the opportunity to see the format of past papers and become familiar with what will be required for them. Many parents ask the question: ‘Do I need to prepare my child for the tests?’ and our advice is that the best way that you can prepare your child is to ensure they are not worried or anxious. 


The following site will explain the tests in more detail:

http://learning.gov.wales/resources/browse-all/reading-and-numeracy-tests-information-for-parents-carers/?lang=en

If you have any more questions or concerns about the National Tests don’t hesitate to speak to your child’s class teacher.