Student assessment is a continuous process and is continually being improved. National Assessment Program (NAPLAN) testing of Years 3/5/7 occurs annually in Term 2. As well as providing individual profiles, this data assists in determining school and system priorities. Formal summative reports are provided to parents at the end of Terms Two and Four. In Term 3, parents are also invited to the classroom open night.
Reporting to Parents
In Western Australia, student achievement in the learning areas taught is reported on a five-point scale for all years from Pre-primary to Year 10. In Years 3 – 10 the following table of letter grades and achievement descriptors must be used but flexibility is provided for systems or schools in Pre-primary to Year 2.
| A – Excellent |
The student demonstrates excellent achievement of what is expected for this year level. The student has an extensive knowledge and understanding of the content and can readily apply this knowledge. In addition, the student has achieved a very high level of competence in the processes and skills and can apply these skills to new situations. |
|---|---|
| B – High |
The student demonstrates high achievement of what is expected for this year level. The student has a thorough knowledge and understanding of the content and a high level of competence in the processes and skills. In addition, the student is able to apply this knowledge and these skills to most situations. |
| C – Satisfactory | The student demonstrates satisfactory achievement of what is expected for this year level. The student has a sound knowledge and understanding of the main areas of content and has achieved an adequate level of competence in the processes and skills. |
| D – Limited |
The student demonstrates limited achievement of what is expected for this year level. The student has a basic knowledge and understanding of the content and has achieved a limited level of competence in the processes and skills. |
| E – Very Low |
The student demonstrates very low achievement of what is expected for this year level. The student has an elementary knowledge and understanding in few areas of the content and has achieved very limited competence in some of the processes and skills. |
What about children who get a ‘D’ or ‘E’ grade?
The new reporting policy is designed to give parents a clear and transparent picture of their child’s achievement at the time of reporting. This means providing a clear picture of achievement at or above the expected standard, as well as areas that are below so that timely action can be taken to help ensure improvements can be made.
Often students may be on the borderline between grades. At Millars Well, teachers must review the ‘Achievement Standards’, Australian Curriculum Work Samples and undergo a rigorous moderation process with their peers. Teachers may also moderate with teachers from surrounding schools to assist making consistent and accurate judgements.
The summary A-E reporting is only part of the picture and schools will be providing information that will highlight the students progress, commitment to learning, areas for development to improve learning.