As NAPLAN exams begin later this week, I was given time to reflect on how I have prepared my own students for these tests, and the best ways to navigate the pressure that can come with them. NAPLAN is a system of nationally mandated tests designed to assess students’ literacy and numeracy skills across Australia. Through completing the various papers including language conventions, reading, writing and numeracy, students in years 3, 5, 7 and 9 are able to demonstrate their understanding of key curriculum outcomes and track their academic progress over time.
Although NAPLAN can seem intimidating, it is important to remember that it is not designed to assess each individual student but rather the school and education system as a whole. It is an opportunity for school curriculum planners, teachers and education authorities to reflect on their teaching methods and adapt to better suit the changing needs of their students. Although the tests can create some stress for students, NAPLAN is still a great opportunity for students to practice and get experience in higher pressure examination environments. Learning how to approach these situations calmly and confidently can be a valuable skill that extends beyond the classroom. There are multiple ways to prepare for NAPLAN, however the way that I have found works best for my students involves taking practice papers and reviewing the answers together afterwards. Through this, the tutor can work with their student to identify weaker areas that we can later zero in on and practice. This allows for full confidence and familiarity to be developed whilst reinforcing important literacy and numeracy skills. Additionally, the student is able to feel comfortable with the format and question style of the test questions that they will be given on the day of the exam.
Overall, NAPLAN provides great insight into student learning and educational outcomes, however the pressure and stress that it may bring students needs to be carefully managed, since it is not designed to define a student’s ability or intelligence but to provide broader data about school and system performance.
Annabelle Molloy