Learning and Teaching
NAPLAN begins on Wednesday, March 11th
The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is a national assessment for students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9.
Students complete assessments in:
- Writing
- Reading
- Conventions of Language (spelling, grammar and punctuation)
- Numeracy
See below the timetable for St. Fidelis School
We cannot change the order of the assessments, as this is mandated by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA).
If your child is absent from school on those days, they will have the opportunity to catch up on the test once all year levels have completed their assessments.
For students with disabilities, a range of reasonable adjustments can be provided during NAPLAN to support their access and participation, while maintaining the integrity of the assessments.
Adjustments are determined on a case-by-case basis by the school, in consultation with parents/carers and the student, and are based on each child’s individual learning needs.
A student may receive one or more adjustments, which may differ across each test domain.
Examples of adjustments that may be provided include:
- Extra working time and supervised rest breaks
- Access to large print, braille, or alternative colour contrast
- Use of a scribe for the writing test (where approved) by VCAA
Adjustments require formal approval through the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA). All approved adjustments are carefully documented and applied in accordance with national testing protocols.
Please note that adjustments do not change what is being assessed. They simply ensure that students with disabilities can access the test conditions in a fair and supportive way.
If you would like to discuss your child’s individual needs or the adjustments available, please do not hesitate to contact the school.
Students have been practising in class and have learnt how to navigate the platform. Teachers are preparing them to the best of their ability; we do not know the types of questions or content that will be included in the assessments. The assessment is also adaptive and adjusts the level of difficulty based on students' answers.
How Parents Can Support Their Child at Home
Parents can play an important role in helping children feel calm, confident and prepared for NAPLAN. Reassure your child that NAPLAN is simply a snapshot of their learning, not something to worry about. Encourage them to do their best without rushing, to read each question carefully, and to check their work when time allows.
It is helpful to remind students that it is okay to skip a question and return to it later if they are unsure. Ensuring your child gets a good night’s sleep, eats a healthy breakfast, and arrives at school on time will also support their focus and wellbeing. Most importantly, maintain a positive, relaxed attitude, as this helps children approach assessments with confidence and resilience.
I have included the public demonstration test for you to look through and complete.
https://www.nap.edu.au/naplan/public-demonstration-site
Have a wonderful week, and please contact your child’s teacher or me if you have any questions.
Vira Pirrotta | Deputy Principal
Learning and Teaching /Learning Diversity Leader