NAPLAN

Why do students do NAPLAN?

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and  Numeracy (NAPLAN) assesses literacy and numeracy skills that are essential for every child to progress through school and life.

Students in Years  7 and 9 participate in the annual NAPLAN tests in reading, writing, language conventions (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and numeracy.

The assessment provides parents and schools with an understanding of how individual students are performing at the time of the tests. NAPLAN is just one aspect of a school’s assessment and reporting process - it does not replace ongoing assessments made by teachers about student performance.

NAPLAN also provides schools, education authorities and governments with information about how education programs are working and whether young Australians are meeting important educational outcomes in literacy and numeracy.

What is assessed?

NAPLAN assesses literacy and numeracy skills that students are learning through their regular school curriculum. All government and non-government

education authorities have contributed to the development of NAPLAN materials. See example NAPLAN questions at nap.edu.au

How can I help my child prepare?

Help your child prepare by reassuring them that NAPLAN is just one part of their school program, and by reminding them on the day to simply try their best. Teachers will ensure students are familiar with the types of questions in the tests and will provide appropriate support and guidance.

ACARA does not recommend excessive preparation for NAPLAN or the use of services by coaching providers. NAPLAN is about assessing learning progress in literacy and numeracy.

Participation in NAPLAN

All students in Years 7 and 9 are expected to participate in the annual NAPLAN assessment. Students with disability may qualify for adjustments that reflect the support normally provided for classroom assessments. You should first discuss the use of any disability adjustments for your child with your child’s teacher.

A formal exemption may be granted for a student with disability that severely limits their capacity to participate in the assessment, or for a student who has recently arrived in Australia and has a non-English speaking background.

Assistant Principal Emma Miller can give you more information on special

provisions or the process required to gain a formal exemption or withdrawal.