NAPLAN 2024
This March, students in Year 3 and 5 will complete NAPLAN assessments.
What is NAPLAN?
The National Assessment Program — Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is a nation-wide, standardised test for children in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 which covers writing, spelling, grammar, reading and numeracy skills.
When is NAPLAN 2024?
NAPLAN tests are taking place between March 13-22.
Why is it important?
NAPLAN is used by governments, schools, teachers and education facilities to determine whether Australian students have the foundational literacy and numeracy skills to aid them in further education. It provides an indication of how students are performing in schools and in which areas they could improve. It also offers insight into the skills students are struggling with, and the skills which need further support.
For students, NAPLAN is just one aspect of assessment and reporting and is a "one moment of one day" snapshot of student learning.
Although there are questions surrounding the benefits of NAPLAN, it continues to be a standard part of all schools.
How will NAPLAN be completed?
All students will complete NAPLAN online, with the exception of Year 3 writing which is completed on paper.
Online NAPLAN tests provide more precise results and are considered to be more engaging for students. One of the main benefits is adaptive (or tailored) testing, where the test presents questions which may be more or less difficult depending on a student’s responses. Adaptive testing allows a wider range of student abilities to be assessed and measures student achievement more precisely. A student’s overall NAPLAN result is based on both the number and complexity of questions they answer correctly. Your child should not be concerned if they find questions challenging; they may be taking a more complex test pathway.
What can I do to support my child?
Students are not expected to study for NAPLAN. Rest assured that were are preparing our students by building their confidence in the test environment and equipping them with the skills they need to answer the questions posed so that they understand and are comfortable with the format of the tests. Our teachers will ensure students are familiar with the types of questions in the tests and will provide appropriate support and guidance.
You can support your child by reassuring them that NAPLAN is a part of their school program and reminding them to simply do their best. ACARA does not recommend excessive preparation for NAPLAN or the use of services by coaching providers. If you would like to see what students will be doing, you can view the types of questions and tools available in the online NAPLAN assessments on the public demonstration sites.
Most importantly, make sure your child gets enough sleep and has a healthy breakfast. This will allow them to power through their papers. An early night and clear head will also help to minimise any anxiety they might experience.
For more answers to frequently asked NAPLAN questions and to discover what's tested in NAPLAN, please click here.
If you have any concerns or wish to find out more, please contact your child's teacher.
Michael McKinnon
NAPLAN Coordinator