How to Help Your Child Prepare for the NAPLAN Test?
Millions of Australian students in Years 3,5,7, and 9 sit for the NAPLAN test annually. It’s an assessment program organised by the government to check children’s literacy and numeracy skills. Based on the results, teachers gather a better understanding of what has to be taught in the class. Moreover, according to many stakeholders, it also evaluates a child’s capability to succeed outside the school.
Besides all the positive aspects, it’s undeniable that NAPLAN preparation can get overwhelming. Especially for parents as they find navigating the complexities of tests stressful. Is your child going to attend NAPLAN this year? If so, continue reading this guide to help your kid succeed in the test to their full potential. Here, you’ll understand what NAPLAN evaluates, its structure, and effective strategies for scoring a good rank.
However, before we can proceed, let’s first understand this program. So, what is NAPLAN? Without a doubt, you’ve heard about NAPLAN, which stands for National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy. This standardised test is conducted every year and evaluates the numeracy as well as literacy of school-going children. Reading, writing, and language conventions are included in its literacy domain. The numeracy tests measure a student’s achievement in mathematical knowledge, reasoning, and problem-solving.
The program offers several advantages, such as:
Highlights areas for improvement
Brings attention to topics they excel in
Identifies gaps in teaching strategies
Encourages schools to implement changes when needed
Now that you are a little more familiar with the program, let’s discuss how to prepare for NAPLAN.
Know the Test Format and Structure
Do you know the biggest mistake that parents or children make during NAPLAN preparation? They only rely on online practice papers. We agree sample papers help you understand the structure and layout of the assessment, but nothing more. If you want to increase your kid’s knowledge, look beyond practice tests. For instance, you can start with the basics. A strong foundation prepares your child for any eventuality. Plus, it’ll prepare them for the next levels. You’ll see that this alternative method will bring better results over time. Here’s how you can develop strategies for each section:
Writing Test
In this section, students have to write a continuous text on any topic or idea given as a prompt. They’ll have to create a response in a specific writing genre that can be:
- Imaginative: Fairy tales, poetry, and plays
- Informative: Biographies, reports or explanations
- Persuasive: Debates, letters to editors, and reviews
Success in writing tests requires proper knowledge of the language. Have your kids focus on sentence construction and text structure. Additionally, give them writing tasks from NAPLAN online practice papers to improve their thought process, endurance and pace.
Reading Test
This paper focuses on reading skills. It contains a range of texts that illustrate various writing styles. Students will have to read and then answer related questions. Interpretation of language conventions is also assessed through this test.
Questions can be
- Multiple choice
- Technology-based (such as hot text, drag and drop)
- Require a short written response
Now a question arises. How do you determine if your kid can interpret what’s written? It’s quite simple; let them read random books as it may improve their understanding of the text. Also, NAPLAN online practice test papers from previous years can be of a big help here. Regular practice gives them an idea of what to expect and increases their reading speed too.
Conventions of Language Test
Another part of literacy assessment is evaluating spelling, grammar, and punctuation. It focuses on knowledge and use of written standard Australian English. The student’s understanding of language conventions is necessary for both writing and reading. Like the other tests, the convention of language assessment is also based on multiple-choice and one-word answers.
Previous year’s NAPLAN online practice papers can boost your kid’s preparation. Your main focus should be on polishing their tenses and other grammar skills. Don’t forget to check their work after they finish practising. Moreover, we recommend giving them constructive feedback as it will encourage your child to perform even better.
Numeracy Test
There’s no denying the importance of basic mathematics in day-to-day life. NAPLAN tests can help children build a strong foundation at the very beginning. It measures students’ mathematical knowledge, understanding, and skill across the following three proficiency strands:
- Statistics and probability
- Number and algebra
- Measurement and geometry
The format is the same as the literacy tests. However, Years 7 and 9 have two sections in numeracy. In one paper, students are not allowed to use calculators. They need to demonstrate arithmetical calculation skills. For the second, calculators are permitted.
As we know practice makes perfect, this section requires loads of it for a student to succeed. One of the best ways to encourage practice is to solve mathematical problems with your kids. They can be either from textbooks or NAPLAN practice papers.
Boost Your Child’s Skills and Confidence Leading Up to NAPLAN
Is your kid getting anxious as the NAPLAN test date approaches? It’s natural for children to feel a mix of nerves and excitement. However, with a positive mindset and effective coaching, they’ll be prepared to ace the test. Perhaps, the following tips can help reduce pre-test anxiety:
Rapid Writing Sessions: A time limit during writing tests can make young students anxious. Struggling to understand which topic to write on is another pressure. So, if you implement the habit of rapid writing into their daily routine, they can do better even with time restrictions.
Better Understanding of Genres: Both reading and writing require a better grasp of different language types and styles. That’s why you should have your kids focus on different structures of narrative and persuasive writing.
Maths Problem of the Day: Solve various mathematics equations with your kid. It will help them understand how to tackle questions of varying difficulties.
Reading Magazines/Books: Let your kids indulge in different kinds of texts. They can be stories, poems, biographies, reviews, reports, etc. It will encourage them to develop comprehension strategies.
Feedback: No matter what assignment you give to your kids, it’s important to update them on their performance. This will boost their confidence and improve their skills further.
How We Make NAPLAN Tests Easier for You?
At EMU Education, we help children prepare for NAPLAN and attain the desired result. We understand it gets difficult for students to prepare for the test while juggling their academic responsibilities. That’s where the need for proficient tutors arises. Our teachers provide additional guidance, clarify concepts, and make a customised prep plan that fits the student’s schedule. Plus, if your child encounters any challenges, we’re always there to assist.
Here are some benefits of our NAPLAN prep program:
A better understanding of test format and structure
Develop an appropriate study schedule
Practise timed sample tests
Improve time management skills
Work on official NAPLAN online practice papers
Inculcate effective reading strategies
Refine writing skills
Brush up on language conventions
Build mathematical proficiency
Stress management
Prioritise self-care
Find the Best NAPLAN Preparation at EMU Education in Melbourne
Are you looking for qualified tutors to help your child prepare for NAPLAN? If so, EMU Education has got you covered. Our experts can assist children in enhancing their language comprehension, writing, and problem-solving skills. Moreover, our individualised attention can boost their confidence and foster a positive attitude toward learning. Call us on 0479 190 958 or drop us an email at info@emueducation.com.au to learn more.
