Year 6 Information Evening

Year 6 It is different this year for many reasons. The two key reasons are: Getting ready to go to high school Those tests!

What are the SATs? Standard Assessment Tests Since 2009, SATs measure academic achievement in TWO core subjects (English and Maths – previously included a Science Assessment) Assessment of Science is carried out by the teacher. Since 2013, the DfE, carries out sample science tests every two years. ‘Expected’ level at the end of Key Stage 2 used to be Level 4 Week beginning Monday 13th May 2019

The New KS2 Tests Since 2016, KS2 national curriculum test outcomes were no longer be reported using levels. Scaled scores will be used instead. There is one set of tests for each subject. The tests include a small number of questions designed to assess the most able pupils so separate tests, such as the previous level 6 tests, are no longer required. The mental mathematics test has been replaced with an arithmetic test.

The KS2 tests consist of: English reading: reading booklet and associated answer booklet English grammar, punctuation and spelling Paper 1: short answer questions English grammar, punctuation and spelling Paper 2: spelling mathematics Paper 1: arithmetic mathematics Paper 2: reasoning mathematics Paper 3: reasoning

Science sampling tests Science – No SAT from 2010 (ongoing teacher assessment and ‘Mini SATs’ only) Children will be monitored and assessed throughout the year on both their scientific knowledge and investigative science skills. End of unit assessments and past SAT papers will be used to inform teacher assessment judgement. Science sampling tests STA will contact selected schools early in the spring term. STA’s testing agency representatives will administer the tests.

When will they take place? Timetabled nationally Week beginning 13th May In school hall or in other rooms, away from any distractions

Week beginning 13th May am Mon 13th May Tues 14th May Weds 15th May Thurs 16th May Fri 17th May am English GPS test: Paper 1, short answer questions. – 45 mins Paper 2, spelling. – 15 mins Reading test – 1 hour Maths paper 1 - Arithmetic Test - 30 mins Maths Paper 2 – reasoning – 40 mins Maths Paper 3 - Reasoning – 40 mins Relax!

How are tests marked? Different numbers of marks awarded for different types of questions Marks totalled across individual papers to provide children with an overall level for each subject Tests marked by external markers

MARKING Since last year, all tests at all levels will be marked on screen. Schools will be able to view test scripts on the ‘Pupil results’ section of NCA tools. Hard copies of test scripts will only be returned to schools if the test could not be marked on screen, eg braille scripts.

How will results presented? The move to scaled scores was announced as part of the previous government’s response to the consultation on reforming assessment and accountability for primary schools. The scale has a lower end point below 100 and an upper end point above 100. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/scaled-scores The DfE will send the school: a raw score (number of raw marks awarded) a scaled score confirmation of whether or not they attained the national standard

Interpreting scaled scores A pupil’s scaled score will be based on their raw score. The raw score is the total number of marks a pupil receives in a test, based on the number of questions they answered correctly. The pupil’s raw score will be translated into a scaled score using a conversion table. A pupil who achieves the national standard will have demonstrated sufficient knowledge in the areas assessed by the tests. This will mean that they are well placed to succeed in the next phase of their education.

How can you help? Keep absence to an absolute minimum during the Spring Term and ensure attendance during SATs week Keep the children calm and reassured Encourage children to discuss homework tasks and any past papers they bring home Encourage a good homework routine (see folders) Ensure an early night the night before

Please feel free to look at sample papers Any other questions? Please feel free to look at sample papers