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The Impact of NAPLAN Date Changes on Student Performance
Optimizing NAPLAN Success
As the NAPLAN 2023 approaches, students and educators are gearing up for a unique opportunity with the rescheduled date. Dr. Selina Samuels, Connect2learn Chief Learning Officer
Connect2Learn's Role in Building Skills for NAPLAN Exam
Connect2Learn introduces notable changes for NAPLAN 2023, including the relocation of triennial NAP Sample assessments for Years 6 and 10 in crucial subjects from Term 3 to Term 2. New annual assessments in science, civics and citizenship, and digital literacy become available as opt-in assessments, phased in over three years. Dr. Samuels emphasizes the significance of these assessments in establishing benchmarks for rapidly growing knowledge areas, alongside the traditional focus on literacy and numeracy, crucial for preparing students for the future.
A major concern highlighted by Dr. Samuels is student preparedness. Stress and anxiety often accompany lack of preparation, particularly for younger students. The recommendation is to provide students with ample time to grasp and consolidate literacy and numeracy concepts, positioning NAPLAN as more than just a test but a platform for mastering foundational skills essential for further study.
To tackle challenges associated with the test format, Dr. Samuels suggests early preparation and familiarization with previous NAPLAN tests. This proactive approach enables students to navigate multiple-choice questions, structure written responses, and decipher complex math problems, ultimately dispelling anxiety and building confidence. The emphasis on familiarity with the test format is underscored as the best strategy for success.
Connect2Learn’s tutors play a vital role in this preparation process, offering students extensive practice with NAPLAN-style questions and providing constructive feedback. The ultimate goal is to help students build literacy and numeracy skills not just for NAPLAN but for life beyond. By offering a comprehensive approach to preparation, including understanding the test format, practicing with relevant questions, and receiving personalized feedback, Connect2Learn aims to empower students for long-term success in their academic journey.
HOW TO BEST PREPARE FOR NAPLAN
Familiarity with the test format is a cornerstone for success. Encouraging students to acquaint themselves with previous NAPLAN tests helps them navigate multiple-choice questions, structure and edit written responses, and unravel complex math problems. This familiarity not only dispels anxiety but builds confidence, positioning students to perform at their best.
To reinforce key skills and concepts, educators should incorporate NAPLAN-style questions into practice sessions. This targeted practice not only aids in mastering the test format but also ensures that students receive constructive feedback.
- Ask your child’s teachers to explain the school’s approach to NAPLAN preparation. For those in Years 5, 7, and 9, it’s worth looking at their past NAPLAN results. Are there key literacy or numeracy skills that would benefit from focused attention?
- Identify gaps in their learning and get kids up to speed with essential skills such as good time management, reading multi-part questions and planning answers.
- This helps dispel the uncertainty around NAPLAN especially in the lead up to exams.
- Encourage children to look for ‘quick wins’ when they are answering multiple-choice questions and to avoid getting stuck on single items for too long. Cultivate a growth mindset and view NAPLAN as a positive experience. It’s not a test to pass or fail but an opportunity for your child to show growth and apply exam skills that have been developed, now you can Enroll NAPLAN COURSE
Reach out if something unexpected is revealed in the results. The more you understand where your child sits, the better equipped you can be to take action if your child needs to catch up, keep up or excel.
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