Learning & Teaching
Learning News
Semester 1 Examinations
Formal examinations provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate the depth of understanding of work covered over an extended period of time. It also provides students with first hand experience of formal examination procedures. The examination results, in conjunction with other assessment results will provide students with significant feedback regarding areas of strength and areas of improvement.
The examination period for Year 11 students is Friday June 16 through to Friday June 23. Students will be given an examination timetable and the dates and times of each exam must be read carefully. All students must attend their scheduled exams in their full school uniform. There are no scheduled classes for Year 11 students during these exams so students are expected at school only for their timetabled exams.
The examination period for Year 8, 9 and 10 is Monday June 19 through to Friday June 23. In 2017 the Year 8, 9 and 10 exams will cover the core subjects of English, Religious Education, Humanities, Mathematics and Science only.
The normal timetable continues where an exam is not scheduled. These arrangements will provide minimal disruption to the learning and teaching program and allows a more effective elective program.
Home Study
As students prepare for examinations it is important that you revisit your daughters’ study at home routines and their effectiveness.
The key messages for study at home include; regular revision, sit as many practice exams as possible and gain feedback on work from home, peers and teachers. Remember that sleep is important and technology should be turned off at least one hour before bedtime.
The GAT (General Achievement Test)
'Gat Chat'
VCE – Years 11 and 12
On Tuesday May 30, Period 3 all Year 11 and 12 students will be given significant information about the GAT. In preparation for the GAT, all year 11 and 12 VCE students will be provided with information that emphasizes the importance of the GAT and strategies that will assist them in completing the GAT. It is expected that all VCE year 11 and 12 students attend
The GAT will be held on Wednesday June 14 from 10.00am to 1.15pm students must arrive at least 30 minutes prior to its commencement. Students enrolled in a unit 3 / 4 study will sit the GAT.
The GAT involves two written tasks on reading comprehension and communication of ideas and information, and a multiple choice test in two sections:
- Thinking in Mathematics, Science and Technology
- Thinking in the Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences.
While the GAT results do not automatically contribute towards the VCE, the results do play a very important part in the final assessment of the VCE as they are used to check that the Examinations, SACs and SATs have been accurately and fairly marked. Further, if a student is ill, has an accident or experiences severe personal hardship at the time of an Examination, a student may apply for a Derived Examination Score (DES). The GAT results contribute towards the calculation of the DES.
Further information on the GAT can be found by clicking HERE
Joanna De Bono
Deputy Principal - Learning & Teaching