NAPLAN

With the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) fast approaching for Years 7 & 9, some students may feel anxious in the lead-up or on the day of these tests. These are all normal feelings which, together, as families and teachers, we can work together to help our young people feel comfortable and confident walking into their first writing test.

At home, you may like to ask your child about how they are feeling regarding the upcoming NAPLAN tests and emphasise the following:

• These tests help teachers better understand what areas you are strong in, and what parts of literacy & numeracy they can help you with.

• Targeted study isn’t needed as we approach NAPLAN. Everything you learn at school is all the preparation you need.

• Doing your best is important so that you can be proud of what you achieve in these tests, while also giving your teachers great information that helps them support you as best they can.

To support your child in having a positive experience, please remind them each morning to:

• Ensure their laptop is fully charged,

• Bring working headphones, and

• Bring a pen and pencil for the numeracy session.

Students in Years 7 & 9 have undertaken a practice session and received information at school from their Curriculum Leaders to help them better understand the process.

If you have any further questions, please contact the college to speak to your child’s Curriculum Leader.

Mini Whiteboards

Students across the College will start to see their teachers using mini whiteboards in class to regularly check for student understanding throughout the lesson.

Mini whiteboard use typically involves teachers posing a question during their instruction, students writing their responses on the whiteboard, and then the whole class holding up their whiteboards to the teacher. Checking for understanding in this way is a highly effective teaching strategy as it allows the teacher to better understand if the class is building accurate knowledge and allows student misconceptions to be addressed on the spot.

For some students, this may be different to what they have experienced in the past, as it requires active involvement, rather than passively listening during teacher instruction. Some students may find having an answer ready to share in this fast-paced activity challenging, however, these routines will be practised over time, allowing the students to feel more comfortable with each lesson.

We encourage you to speak with your child about their experience and emphasise how this is helping them to deepen their understanding.

Adam Gonzalez
Deputy Principal: Learning & Teaching