The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy, or NAPLAN for short, is a series of tests for Australian students in their 3rd, 5th, 7th, and 9th years in school. The assessment is not only to test the ability of students but also to determine the educational outcomes achieved by the students. The results can show the effectiveness of teaching in schools and serve as a basis for government-issued educational policies.
As a parent, it is imperative that you help your child prepare for the NAPLAN test. Although the assessment is not a “pass or fail” test, it is still a good idea to support them as they prepare for the NAPLAN test. NAPLAN tutoring, modules, and continued education are ways to improve in the NAPLAN test.
Reading
If your child is fond of reading for fun, then you have one less thing to worry about. Children who read for leisure readily improve reading comprehension, writing skills, and language conventions. Comprehension is tested by reading stories, and language conventions are repeatedly seen. Your child can also adopt the writing skills – however, books vary in difficulty and complexity, so it is recommended to only allow your child to read books within or just above their reading skills.
Tutoring
There are schools that offer NAPLAN tutoring, which is the easiest way to prepare your child for the assessments. Other private institutions also offer tutoring, which tends to be more expensive. However, the price is worth it as besides teaching your child, the tutors also systematically improve your child’s weak points.
Tutors will have an initial assessment for your child to view their weak and strong subjects. Upon viewing this, the tutor will create a lesson plan tailor-made to your child’s needs. Another strong point for considering having your child tutored is the tutors’ experience. NAPLAN tutors have built a career focused on the NAPLAN tests, making them the most qualified to teach your child for the tests.
Real-life situations
The saying “life is the greatest teacher” holds. Real-life situations can help improve your child’s cognition and understanding of everyday matters. Exposing your child to chores and responsibilities will allow them to apply what they have learned in school.
For example, entrusting your child with money will test their numeracy and financial skills. Making them watch the news on TV and asking them what it is about tests their reading comprehension, sentence construction, and communication skills. Besides honing your child’s skills, these seemingly mundane tasks also teach them responsibility and discipline. The Australian government also provides similar situations within modules to help both student and parent – these contain guidelines and tips to prepare both student and parent for the NAPLAN.
For some students, the NAPLAN is a difficult test, while the opposite is true for others. Supporting your child for the NAPLAN through the ways mentioned above will ensure an accurate assessment of their skills. However, the NAPLAN is not the only test that will determine your child’s knowledge – putting too much pressure on your child will only result in anxiety and negative outcomes. Providing a sufficient support system and listening to your child prove to be the best ways for them with their academic life.