Learning and Teaching
NAPLAN – What Year 3 and 5 Parents Need to Know
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
These assessments are aligned with the Australian Curriculum and reflect what students learn as part of their regular classroom program.
Most NAPLAN assessments are completed online. The tests are tailored (adaptive), meaning questions become easier or harder depending on each student’s responses. This allows students of all abilities to be assessed accurately and remain engaged. Year 3 students complete the writing assessment on paper.NAPLAN is just one part of a school’s overall assessment program and does not replace regular classroom assessments.
Students with disability or additional learning needs may access reasonable adjustments to support their participation. In exceptional circumstances, students may be granted an exemption. Schools work closely with families to determine the most appropriate support.
If your child is absent, the school will, where possible, arrange for students to complete missed tests during the school’s testing period.
Students do not need to study for NAPLAN. Families can help by reassuring children to stay calm and do their best, and explaining that NAPLAN is simply part of normal school learning.
Parents will receive a report showing where their child sits within four proficiency levels: Exceeding, Strong, Developing, and Needs Additional Support. Individual student reports are provided to families later in the year.
The Year 3 and 5 teachers will ensure students are well prepared and familiar with the test format. Students will complete the online practise tests in the next couple of weeks.
NAPLAN begins on Wednesday, March 11th and ends on March 20th. Teachers will send out a timetable for the assessments closer to the date.
Please see the attached parent information sheet from the ACARA NAPLAN assessment website.
Also, if you would like to see the online testing format, you can visit the public demonstration site: https://www.nap.edu.au/naplan/public-demonstration-site
Please reach out to your child’s teacher or me if you have any concerns or questions.
Have a wonderful week
Vira Pirrotta | Deputy Principal
Learning and Teaching /Learning Diversity Leader