updated
3.3Optional tests for years 3, 4 and 5
| Key dates | |
| 30 November 2007 | Deadline for ordering optional tests for years 3, 4 and 5 in English and mathematics (standard and modified versions). |
| March 2008 | Delivery of optional tests for years 3, 4 and 5 in English and mathematics ordered by the school (standard and modified versions). |
A new suite of standardised optional tests was published in 2006 to support teachers in assessing pupils' progress throughout years 3, 4 and 5. These tests are again available to order for use in 2008.
The optional tests enable schools to monitor pupils' year-on-year progress against a national benchmark between the end of key stage 1 and end of key stage 2 statutory tests, and are fully integrated with the national curriculum and statutory testing protocols.
Further details are available online on the QCA website at www.qca.org.uk/y345.
The English optional tests
There are three English tests for each year group:
- a writing test (made up of a longer task and a shorter task)
- a spelling test
- a reading test.
For years 3 and 4, these tests cover levels 2– 4. For year 5, these tests cover levels 3–5.
The mathematics optional tests
There are three mathematics tests for each year group.
In year 3, there are two written tests (one covering levels 2B–3B and the other covering levels 3C–4C) and a mental mathematics test. Pupils take one written paper and the mental mathematics test.
In year 4, there are two written tests (one covering levels 2A–3A and the other covering levels 3B–4A) and a mental mathematics test. Pupils take one written paper and the mental mathematics test.
In year 5, there are two written tests (a calculator and a non-calculator paper both covering levels 3C–5B) and a mental mathematics test. Pupils take both written papers and the mental mathematics test.
Ordering the optional tests
To purchase the optional tests, schools should log in to the 'Test orders' section of the NAA website at www.naa.org.uk/tests. Once placed, orders may also be amended on this website. If schools wish to discuss their order , they should contact the QCA orderline on 08700 60 60 15.
Orders should be placed by 30 November 2007 to ensure delivery of the tests in March 2008. Any orders received after this date will be dispatched to schools after Easter 2008 in accordance with the QCA orderline' s normal distribution procedures.
Modified versions of the optional tests
Modified large print, braille and enlarged print versions of the optional tests are available for pupils with visual impairment. Modified materials for the mental mathematics tests are available for pupils with hearing impairment and pupils who use sign language. For more information on the format of the modified optional tests, see the 'Test orders' section of the NAA website at www.naa.org.uk/tests or telephone the NAA modified test agency (optional) on 01733 375356. To ensure delivery of the modified tests in March 2008, orders must be placed by
30 November 2007.
Administering the optional tests
Schools may choose how to administer the optional tests. Guidance is provided in the Teacher's guides that accompany the tests.