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Online testing in schools

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Introduction<br />

Dur<strong>in</strong>g the last decade, onl<strong>in</strong>e <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> has become <strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>gly<br />

popular with <strong>schools</strong>. Ease of adm<strong>in</strong>istration, <strong>in</strong>stant scor<strong>in</strong>g and<br />

report<strong>in</strong>g, and a less daunt<strong>in</strong>g test environment are just some of<br />

the many reasons beh<strong>in</strong>d this steady move from paper to onl<strong>in</strong>e<br />

<strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong>.<br />

GL Assessment’s powerful onl<strong>in</strong>e <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> system, Testwise, has been at the forefront of<br />

this change. In fact, we have already delivered over 5 million onl<strong>in</strong>e tests to pupils and our<br />

many ‘high-stakes’ assessments are all available <strong>in</strong> digital format, such as the well<br />

established and highly regarded Cognitive Abilities Test (CAT), Suffolk Read<strong>in</strong>g Scale and<br />

Progress <strong>in</strong> Maths.<br />

With onl<strong>in</strong>e versions of Dyslexia Screener and Dyscalculia Screener, our Special<br />

Educational Needs (SEN) range is go<strong>in</strong>g digital too.<br />

In fact, we are work<strong>in</strong>g hard at expand<strong>in</strong>g our e-assessment portfolio and broaden<strong>in</strong>g<br />

onl<strong>in</strong>e <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> possibilities for <strong>schools</strong>. Excit<strong>in</strong>g new additions <strong>in</strong>clude:<br />

• CAT4 Digital with a brand new suite of easy-to-understand reports – see pages 10 & 11<br />

• New Group Read<strong>in</strong>g Test Digital, an adaptive onl<strong>in</strong>e test that cleverly adjusts itself to a<br />

pupil’s read<strong>in</strong>g ability – more on page 12<br />

• Pupil Attitudes to Self and School (PASS) Digital, an onl<strong>in</strong>e version of our popular<br />

pupil attitud<strong>in</strong>al survey, available <strong>in</strong> early 2013 – see the latest <strong>in</strong>formation at<br />

www.gl-assessment.co.uk/pass.<br />

However, despite the <strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>g popularity of onl<strong>in</strong>e <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong>, many <strong>schools</strong> cont<strong>in</strong>ue to opt<br />

for paper <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong>. And why change when you are perfectly happy with the paper-based<br />

method?<br />

This guide helps answer that question by look<strong>in</strong>g closely at the many benefits of onl<strong>in</strong>e<br />

<strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> and show<strong>in</strong>g how it can help both teachers and pupils. It also expla<strong>in</strong>s the steps<br />

<strong>in</strong>volved <strong>in</strong> gett<strong>in</strong>g started. (This is well worth a look – see pages 6 & 7 – as users are often<br />

surprised at how easy it is!)<br />

CONTENTS<br />

Our onl<strong>in</strong>e <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> portfolio 3<br />

The benefits of onl<strong>in</strong>e <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> 4–5<br />

Information for teachers 6–7<br />

Through the eyes of the pupil 8–9<br />

NEW! CAT 4 Digital 10–11<br />

NEW!<br />

NEW! New Group Read<strong>in</strong>gTest Digital 12<br />

NEW!<br />

Parent/carer communication 13<br />

Contact us 14<br />

Contact us<br />

For more <strong>in</strong>formation or to arrange a free no obligation demonstration, please visit<br />

www.gl-assessment.co.uk/onl<strong>in</strong>e or call 0845 602 1937. Helpful documents and<br />

guidance notes can also be found at www.gl-assessment.co.uk/testwisehelp.<br />

2


The benefits of onl<strong>in</strong>e <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong><br />

When paper tests are work<strong>in</strong>g well <strong>in</strong> a school, a<br />

switch to onl<strong>in</strong>e <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> can sometimes seem<br />

like more upheaval than it’s worth. However,<br />

after consideration of the many benefits, we f<strong>in</strong>d<br />

that most <strong>schools</strong> never look back! Here’s why:<br />

1 Easy setup<br />

<strong>Onl<strong>in</strong>e</strong> <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> doesn’t <strong>in</strong>volve a complicated and time-consum<strong>in</strong>g<br />

setup. It can be done quickly and easily and doesn’t require a<br />

technical expert – please see pages 6 & 7.<br />

Further reports are available at an additional charge. These can be<br />

requested onl<strong>in</strong>e and are supplied onl<strong>in</strong>e too, as soon as your<br />

order is processed. Options <strong>in</strong>clude:<br />

• Local Authority / School Cluster report that compares results<br />

between <strong>schools</strong> and <strong>in</strong>cludes all group comparison criteria.<br />

• Individual Pupil Profile show<strong>in</strong>g overall achievement compared<br />

to the national norms, but also detailed process/curriculum<br />

content category <strong>in</strong>formation to identify easily those areas that<br />

require attention.<br />

2 Reduced adm<strong>in</strong>istration<br />

All practice, <strong>in</strong>structions and tim<strong>in</strong>gs are computer-adm<strong>in</strong>istered.<br />

Practice question from Progress <strong>in</strong> English Digital Level 11<br />

3 Cont<strong>in</strong>uity of assessment<br />

GL Assessment’s onl<strong>in</strong>e tests have been fully equated to the<br />

equivalent paper-based tests, ensur<strong>in</strong>g the same reliability and<br />

allow<strong>in</strong>g you to ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong> cont<strong>in</strong>uity of assessment.<br />

TheYear-on-Year Achievement Report compares your<br />

pupils’ results with results from previous years, enabl<strong>in</strong>g<br />

you to see immediately if they are mak<strong>in</strong>g progress at<br />

the required rate. Pupils that are mak<strong>in</strong>g below average<br />

progress or have low value added can be identified<br />

easily for further support and <strong>in</strong>tervention.<br />

4 Immediate results and reports<br />

As soon as a test has been completed, test scores and reports are<br />

available onl<strong>in</strong>e, significantly reduc<strong>in</strong>g teacher workload and<br />

allow<strong>in</strong>g teachers to evaluate pupils’ needs without the delay of<br />

hand mark<strong>in</strong>g and scor<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

5 Detailed diagnostic reports<br />

As well as track<strong>in</strong>g a pupil's progress with<strong>in</strong> or across subjects, our<br />

onl<strong>in</strong>e <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> system, Testwise, also tracks year-on-year<br />

performance and provides comparison of performance aga<strong>in</strong>st<br />

nationally standardised data.<br />

Standard reports vary slightly depend<strong>in</strong>g on which test you are<br />

us<strong>in</strong>g. However, as a guidel<strong>in</strong>e, you will have immediate access to<br />

the follow<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>formation:<br />

• Individual and group analysis<br />

• Raw and standardised age scores<br />

• A current National Curriculum level<br />

• Indicative National Test levels<br />

• Question-by-question breakdown<br />

• Results by process or curriculum content category<br />

• Group Demographic Comparison<br />

• Year-on-Year Achievement.<br />

The Group Demographic Comparison Graphs enable<br />

<strong>in</strong>stant analysis of pupil achievement by gender,<br />

ethnicity, free school meals and additional educational<br />

needs. Schools can also add two fields of their choice,<br />

e.g. English as an Additional Language or Postcode.<br />

4


6 Parent/carer reports<br />

For a number of our onl<strong>in</strong>e tests, comprehensive parent/carer<br />

reports are available, support<strong>in</strong>g your communication with this<br />

important stakeholder group and help<strong>in</strong>g to raise achievement<br />

through <strong>in</strong>creased parental <strong>in</strong>volvement. See page 13 for more<br />

<strong>in</strong>formation.<br />

7 MIS compatible<br />

Reports are available <strong>in</strong> PDF and Excel format, enabl<strong>in</strong>g you to<br />

manipulate and reformat the data for import<strong>in</strong>g directly <strong>in</strong>to your<br />

school’s Management Information System (MIS).<br />

8 ‘Live’ data<br />

Data is kept ‘live’ onl<strong>in</strong>e, giv<strong>in</strong>g you added flexibility <strong>in</strong> a number<br />

of scenarios. For example, when a new pupil sits a test, you not<br />

only receive immediate scores but are also able to generate<br />

updated group reports that <strong>in</strong>clude the new pupil too.<br />

9 Increased pupil motivation<br />

Pupils often f<strong>in</strong>d the onl<strong>in</strong>e test experience more motivat<strong>in</strong>g and<br />

less daunt<strong>in</strong>g than paper tests.<br />

10 Home/school access<br />

Access to your school’s onl<strong>in</strong>e <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> account is available to you<br />

from any computer whether <strong>in</strong> school, at home or elsewhere. All<br />

you need is a broadband <strong>in</strong>ternet connection.<br />

11 Secure data<br />

Testwise complies fully with the ISO/IEC 27001 <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />

standard regard<strong>in</strong>g data security, the highest standard <strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong>dustry<br />

for data security.<br />

Each customer account is given a unique URL (<strong>in</strong>ternet address)<br />

and access is only possible us<strong>in</strong>g the adm<strong>in</strong>istrator password that<br />

is set by the school adm<strong>in</strong>istrator. A pupil logg<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>to Testwise<br />

will only be able to take any outstand<strong>in</strong>g tests set for him or her.<br />

It is not possible for a pupil to view their own test scores or the<br />

data and scores of any other pupils. Pupil log<strong>in</strong>s are set by the<br />

school adm<strong>in</strong>istrator.<br />

No member of the GL Assessment staff or technical team can log<br />

<strong>in</strong>to a Testwise customer account or access customer data<br />

without express permission.<br />

12 Affordable<br />

While the per pupil cost for onl<strong>in</strong>e <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> is slightly higher than that<br />

for paper <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong>, the significant sav<strong>in</strong>gs made as a consequence of<br />

us<strong>in</strong>g onl<strong>in</strong>e tests tend to more than compensate for this. For<br />

example:<br />

• Immediate scor<strong>in</strong>g and report<strong>in</strong>g results <strong>in</strong> more efficient use<br />

of teacher time and the elim<strong>in</strong>ation of external mark<strong>in</strong>g costs.<br />

• <strong>Onl<strong>in</strong>e</strong> access to scores and reports means less pr<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g costs.<br />

• At a time where many local authorities are mak<strong>in</strong>g cut-backs<br />

on specialist teach<strong>in</strong>g staff, it is reassur<strong>in</strong>g to know that onl<strong>in</strong>e<br />

<strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> provides much of the <strong>in</strong>formation and statistics you<br />

need. With accessible, easy-to-understand reports, onl<strong>in</strong>e<br />

<strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> decreases <strong>schools</strong>’ dependency on external<br />

consultants to whom <strong>schools</strong> might otherwise turn <strong>in</strong> the<br />

absence of LA-funded specialist teach<strong>in</strong>g staff.<br />

Arrange a free no obligation demonstration today!<br />

T: 0845 602 1937 E: <strong>in</strong>fo@gl-assessment.co.uk<br />

5


Manag<strong>in</strong>g your assessments onl<strong>in</strong>e: Information for teachers<br />

Manag<strong>in</strong>g your assessments onl<strong>in</strong>e is<br />

straightforward, reliable and very efficient. In this<br />

section, we look at the steps <strong>in</strong>volved. Further<br />

Testwise help documents and guidance notes<br />

can be found at www.gl-assessment.co.uk/<br />

testwisehelp.<br />

3 Load<strong>in</strong>g pupil data<br />

Step 1: Select the test register to which you would like to add<br />

pupil names.<br />

Step 2: Manually enter each pupil’s details. Individual passwords<br />

can be entered too, if you wish to do so.<br />

1 YourTestwise account<br />

As soon as your order is processed, you will be sent a unique URL<br />

(<strong>in</strong>ternet address) and adm<strong>in</strong>istration password. With this<br />

<strong>in</strong>formation, you can log <strong>in</strong>to your Testwise account from any<br />

computer with a broadband <strong>in</strong>ternet connection, whether at school<br />

or at home. Your account conta<strong>in</strong>s all onl<strong>in</strong>e tests purchased from<br />

GL Assessment and new tests can be added at any time.<br />

Once you have logged <strong>in</strong> successfully, you can:<br />

• Set up pupils to take a test<br />

• Access all test results and reports<br />

• Request additional reports<br />

• Export data <strong>in</strong>to your MIS.<br />

2 System check<br />

First you need to perform a system check to confirm the tests can<br />

run smoothly on your computers. If preferred, it can be carried out<br />

with your GL Assessment consultant on hand to guide you through<br />

the process.<br />

To automatically start the check, simply click on ‘Setup Check’ <strong>in</strong><br />

the top right hand corner. After a successful check is performed,<br />

the word ‘Pass’ will appear <strong>in</strong> green <strong>in</strong> the ‘Results’ column.<br />

In the vast majority of cases, your computers will pass all the<br />

checks. But if they don’t, it’s almost always a simple question of<br />

enabl<strong>in</strong>g pop-ups or download<strong>in</strong>g a free plug-<strong>in</strong> (e.g. Flash or a<br />

newer version of Adobe Acrobat) from the <strong>in</strong>ternet. The system will<br />

advise you what further action needs to be taken and you can<br />

always contact our Technical Support team on 0845 602 1937.<br />

OR<br />

Import large batches of pupil details us<strong>in</strong>g a CSV file. This<br />

can be exported from your MIS.<br />

Our Technical Support team is on hand to help guide you through<br />

this process if you experience any difficulties – tel 0845 602 1937.<br />

4 Ready to test<br />

Your system has been checked and pupil data loaded to a test<br />

register which will now look similar to the one shown below for<br />

New Group Read<strong>in</strong>g Test Digital. All pupils listed <strong>in</strong> the test register<br />

can now take the test.<br />

If you would like to import the same pupils <strong>in</strong>to another<br />

test register, this can be done us<strong>in</strong>g a Copy button on<br />

the test register screen.<br />

Screen show<strong>in</strong>g a successful system check<br />

Tests can be made available for an extended time so<br />

pupils can be tested <strong>in</strong> groups that fit with the<br />

availability of computer suites. All pupils can be<br />

<strong>in</strong>cluded <strong>in</strong> a s<strong>in</strong>gle report, even if they have taken the<br />

test at different times.<br />

6


5 Access<strong>in</strong>g test results and reports<br />

To generate a report, simply tick the required pupils, press the<br />

report button and select from the options shown which report is<br />

required. After completion, the report is available to view or<br />

download from an area called the Subscriptions area <strong>in</strong> which all<br />

results and reports are listed.<br />

FurtherTestwise<br />

help documents and<br />

guidance notes can be<br />

found at<br />

www.gl-assessment.co.uk/<br />

testwisehelp.<br />

<strong>Onl<strong>in</strong>e</strong> <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> <strong>in</strong> action<br />

Progress <strong>in</strong> Maths Digital<br />

S<strong>in</strong>ce start<strong>in</strong>g to use Progress <strong>in</strong> Maths Digital,<br />

Milton Parochial Primary School has seen higher<br />

levels of progress with itsYear 6 pupils, as<br />

expla<strong>in</strong>ed by Antony Witheyman, Deputy<br />

Headteacher:<br />

Question from Progress <strong>in</strong> Maths 9 Digital.<br />

“We are over the moon with the progress year six pupils have<br />

made <strong>in</strong> maths us<strong>in</strong>g PiM Digital and how easy it has been to<br />

monitor their achievement. Digital assessment will cont<strong>in</strong>ue to be<br />

part of our pupil <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> regime so that we can ensure we are<br />

offer<strong>in</strong>g the highest standard of teach<strong>in</strong>g and learn<strong>in</strong>g to each and<br />

every child <strong>in</strong> the school.<br />

“We wanted to f<strong>in</strong>d a way to make maths more enjoyable for our<br />

pupils and raise standards of achievement <strong>in</strong> this key area of the<br />

curriculum. We are thrilled with the results we have seen s<strong>in</strong>ce<br />

we began us<strong>in</strong>g Progress <strong>in</strong> Maths Digital. The test has been<br />

central to enabl<strong>in</strong>g 80% of our year six pupils to achieve level 5 <strong>in</strong><br />

their national curriculum assessments.”<br />

The Analysis by Process Area report for Progress <strong>in</strong> Maths<br />

shows pupil performance <strong>in</strong> the four content categories of<br />

Number, Data Handl<strong>in</strong>g, Algebra, and Shape, Space and<br />

Measures.<br />

7


Through the eyes of the pupil<br />

For a pupil tak<strong>in</strong>g a test, the process is very<br />

straightforward and, for many, much more<br />

motivat<strong>in</strong>g than a paper test. Concentration levels<br />

are often higher too as pupils only see one<br />

question at a time on the screen and are therefore<br />

not distracted or overwhelmed by the sight of the<br />

other questions.<br />

1) 1 Logg<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>to the test<br />

Pupils log <strong>in</strong> via the school’s unique URL (<strong>in</strong>ternet address). A pupil<br />

then clicks on the Student icon, enters the Register ID (provided by<br />

you) and selects their name from a list.<br />

They are then asked for a password and <strong>schools</strong> can choose from<br />

the follow<strong>in</strong>g three password modes:<br />

a) Unique <strong>in</strong>dividual pupil password, most frequently used with<br />

older pupils.<br />

b) Shared common pupil password, often used for a class or<br />

group of younger pupils.<br />

c) No password, popular when younger primary school children<br />

are tak<strong>in</strong>g a test and the teacher chooses to log each child <strong>in</strong>to<br />

a specific test beforehand.<br />

3) 3 Tak<strong>in</strong>g the test<br />

Pupils see one question at a time and all questions are <strong>in</strong> full<br />

colour. There are a number of ways of answer<strong>in</strong>g a question, all of<br />

which will have been <strong>in</strong>cluded <strong>in</strong> the practice questions. For<br />

example, pupils can select from multiple-choice options,<br />

manipulate onscreen graphics or drag and drop items.<br />

4) 4 F<strong>in</strong>ish<strong>in</strong>g a test<br />

A test will end <strong>in</strong> one of two ways. A timed test ends automatically<br />

whereas, at the end of an untimed test, a pupil is asked to click on<br />

a F<strong>in</strong>ish button. Test data will be saved automatically so that results<br />

and reports can be generated.<br />

To beg<strong>in</strong> a test it’s simply a question of click<strong>in</strong>g on the<br />

‘Take Now’ button.<br />

2) 2 Practice questions<br />

First, pupils are shown sample questions and they can complete<br />

these practice questions either at their own pace or as a group<br />

under the guidance of their teacher. Pupils can return to the<br />

practice section at any time while tak<strong>in</strong>g the test.<br />

Progress <strong>in</strong> English Digital<br />

Level 7<br />

• Comprehension exercises<br />

require pupils to spend at<br />

least five m<strong>in</strong>utes read<strong>in</strong>g<br />

before questions are<br />

displayed.<br />

• Pupils use the mouse to<br />

give their answers and can<br />

change their answer by<br />

click<strong>in</strong>g on another option.<br />

Pupils can<br />

move backwards<br />

and forwards to<br />

read the story<br />

and questions.<br />

Practice item from Progress <strong>in</strong> Maths 9 Digital.<br />

8


<strong>Onl<strong>in</strong>e</strong> <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> <strong>in</strong> action<br />

Suffolk Read<strong>in</strong>g Scale Digital<br />

Non-Verbal Reason<strong>in</strong>g<br />

8 & 9 Digital<br />

• Pupils can move<br />

backwards and forwards<br />

us<strong>in</strong>g the buttons at the<br />

bottom of the screen.<br />

Unanswered questions<br />

are highlighted.<br />

• To answer, pupils simply<br />

click on one of the options<br />

shown.<br />

The onscreen<br />

clock helps<br />

pupils keep<br />

track of the time<br />

rema<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g.<br />

Church Vale Primary School uses the digital version of the<br />

Suffolk Read<strong>in</strong>g Scale (SRS) with all pupils from Year 2 through<br />

to Year 6. Jo Yardley, Deputy Head Teacher, Literacy Leader and<br />

Assessment Leader, expla<strong>in</strong>s:<br />

“The children have taken to the test very well <strong>in</strong>deed. They<br />

used to give us some negative feedback about the previous<br />

paper test we used, tell<strong>in</strong>g us it was bor<strong>in</strong>g and hard, but we<br />

have got a much better response with the Suffolk Read<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Scale. The children have also managed to complete much<br />

more on the screen than they did on the previous paper test,<br />

ma<strong>in</strong>ly as they just see one question at a time and are happy<br />

to just carry on go<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

“The onl<strong>in</strong>e version of the test has saved us so much time.<br />

Rather than staff spend<strong>in</strong>g their time mark<strong>in</strong>g papers, we<br />

<strong>in</strong>stantly get the <strong>in</strong>formation through and can use it to<br />

compare child aga<strong>in</strong>st child, compare the class as a whole and<br />

see how they are perform<strong>in</strong>g aga<strong>in</strong>st the national picture. And<br />

all of this at the click of a button.<br />

“At first, our teachers were slightly wary of conduct<strong>in</strong>g the test<br />

onl<strong>in</strong>e, but when they saw it <strong>in</strong> practice, they were thrilled to<br />

bits! The biggest benefit is that <strong>in</strong>stead of spend<strong>in</strong>g time<br />

mark<strong>in</strong>g papers, we can now spend time look<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>to the<br />

results and do<strong>in</strong>g someth<strong>in</strong>g about it.”<br />

Practice item from Suffolk Read<strong>in</strong>g Scale Digital.<br />

S<strong>in</strong>gle Word Spell<strong>in</strong>g Test<br />

Digital 7<br />

• Older students use the<br />

keyboard to type their<br />

answers while younger<br />

pupils use the onscreen<br />

alphabet to spell words.<br />

• Pupils use the mouse to<br />

click on each letter and<br />

make it appear <strong>in</strong> the box.<br />

• Tests for younger pupils<br />

are given orally and they<br />

can ‘Listen Aga<strong>in</strong>’ as<br />

needed.<br />

If they<br />

make a mistake<br />

or change their<br />

m<strong>in</strong>d, pupils can<br />

use the eraser to<br />

rub out, letter by<br />

letter.<br />

List<strong>in</strong>g of SRS Level 2 results with Key Stage 2 <strong>in</strong>dicators.<br />

This report also <strong>in</strong>cludes Standard Age Scores, National<br />

Percentile Ranks, Group Ranks, Raw Scores, Confidence<br />

Bands, Current National Curriculum Read<strong>in</strong>g Levels and<br />

Read<strong>in</strong>g Ages.<br />

9


NEW!<br />

In the spotlight: CAT4 Digital<br />

CAT4 is the fourth edition of GL Assessment’s<br />

well established Cognitive Abilities Test, the UK’s<br />

most widely used test of reason<strong>in</strong>g abilities.<br />

Fully standardised, it has been developed to<br />

support <strong>schools</strong> <strong>in</strong> understand<strong>in</strong>g pupils’<br />

developed abilities and likely academic potential.<br />

Results from CAT4 can help <strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong>tervention,<br />

monitor<strong>in</strong>g progress and sett<strong>in</strong>g targets for<br />

future atta<strong>in</strong>ment.<br />

Aimed at pupils from 7 to 17+ years, CAT4 assesses a pupil’s<br />

ability to reason with and manipulate different types of material<br />

through a series of verbal, non-verbal, quantitative and spatial<br />

reason<strong>in</strong>g tasks. Together, these four batteries provide teachers<br />

with a comprehensive profile of a pupil’s reason<strong>in</strong>g abilities, and as<br />

such the core abilities related to learn<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

Sample spatial ability question.<br />

The result<strong>in</strong>g data can then be used to identify a pupil’s strengths,<br />

weaknesses and learn<strong>in</strong>g preferences, provid<strong>in</strong>g accurate and<br />

reliable <strong>in</strong>formation that is essential for personalised learn<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

Data rich reports<br />

One of the most excit<strong>in</strong>g features of CAT4 is the development of a<br />

brand new suite of reports, offer<strong>in</strong>g richer and more comprehensive<br />

assessment data. Users of CAT4 Digital automatically receive an<br />

enhanced Group Report for teachers, available as soon as the test<br />

is completed. Compris<strong>in</strong>g more narrative than CAT3, reports are<br />

much easier to read and understand, help<strong>in</strong>g you to <strong>in</strong>terpret the<br />

data fully.<br />

Seven additional reports are also available, each of which can be<br />

purchased separately and provided onl<strong>in</strong>e. Designed with specific<br />

audiences <strong>in</strong> m<strong>in</strong>d, the reports appear <strong>in</strong> a range of different<br />

formats from PowerPo<strong>in</strong>t ® presentations for school leadership<br />

teams and govern<strong>in</strong>g bodies to easy-to-understand reports for<br />

parents and pupils. These expla<strong>in</strong> what the data mean and how<br />

pupils can be supported <strong>in</strong> their learn<strong>in</strong>g, both at home and at<br />

school.<br />

• CAT4 Individual report for teachers<br />

• CAT4 Individual report for students<br />

• CAT4 Individual report for senior leaders<br />

• CAT4 Summary report for senior leaders<br />

• CAT4 Summary presentation for senior leaders<br />

• CAT4 Excel report<br />

• CAT4 Cluster report.<br />

Included <strong>in</strong> the Group Report for teachers is an analysis<br />

that assigns all pupils to one of seven broad descriptions<br />

of their preferences for learn<strong>in</strong>g. For example, pupils<br />

with ‘Moderate verbal bias’ are likely to prefer to learn<br />

through read<strong>in</strong>g, writ<strong>in</strong>g and discussion. In contrast,<br />

pupils <strong>in</strong> the ‘Extreme spatial bias’ category are likely to<br />

be high achievers <strong>in</strong> subjects that require good visualspatial<br />

skills such as maths, physics and technology.<br />

However, ow<strong>in</strong>g to a relative weakness <strong>in</strong> verbal skills,<br />

atta<strong>in</strong>ment may be uneven and they may need support<br />

<strong>in</strong> subjects where the emphasis is on the written word.<br />

10


Why use CAT4 Digital?<br />

• It identifies a pupil’s strengths, weaknesses and learn<strong>in</strong>g<br />

preferences, provid<strong>in</strong>g essential <strong>in</strong>formation for personalised<br />

learn<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

• CAT4 is unique <strong>in</strong> the way it can unlock potential. In other<br />

words, it can identify a pupil with high level ability who may<br />

have been overlooked or who is <strong>in</strong> danger of underachiev<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

• Latest research has confirmed the importance of assess<strong>in</strong>g<br />

pupils’ spatial ability <strong>in</strong> order to develop and support spatial<br />

skills, which are the basis for success <strong>in</strong> STEM (Science,<br />

Technology, Eng<strong>in</strong>eer<strong>in</strong>g and Maths) subjects and careers. The<br />

new separate Spatial Battery <strong>in</strong> CAT4 supports this.<br />

• Results can help <strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong>tervention, monitor<strong>in</strong>g progress and<br />

sett<strong>in</strong>g targets for future atta<strong>in</strong>ment.<br />

• A brand new suite of easy-to-understand reports offers richer<br />

and far more comprehensive assessment data.<br />

• Different reports are available for teachers, senior leaders,<br />

parents and pupils.<br />

• CAT4 has been newly standardised to provide accurate, up-todate<br />

data.<br />

• It can be used to <strong>in</strong>form appropriate target sett<strong>in</strong>g, with<br />

<strong>in</strong>dicators of atta<strong>in</strong>ment provided at KS2, KS3 and KS4 –<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g new ‘If challenged’ <strong>in</strong>dicators.<br />

• GCSE <strong>in</strong>dicators are available for 30 subjects as are AS/A Level<br />

<strong>in</strong>dicators for 21 subjects, Scottish Standard Grade <strong>in</strong>dicators<br />

for 21 subjects, and key subject <strong>in</strong>dicators for Int1 and Int2 <strong>in</strong><br />

Scotland.<br />

Sample quantitative reason<strong>in</strong>g question.<br />

<strong>Onl<strong>in</strong>e</strong> <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> <strong>in</strong> action<br />

CAT4 Digital<br />

Demonstrat<strong>in</strong>g pupil potential is now a requirement for all <strong>schools</strong>,<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g primary <strong>schools</strong>. As a result, many of our users have<br />

decided to start <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> with CAT as early as the end ofYear 3 (P4) or<br />

the beg<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g ofYear 4 (P5). In this way, primary <strong>schools</strong> are left with<br />

a realistic time-frame before transition to secondary to deal with<br />

some of the issues raised by CAT.<br />

CAT4 Digital is particularly suitable for primary <strong>schools</strong> keen to follow<br />

this lead. Not only are results provided immediately, enabl<strong>in</strong>g<br />

<strong>in</strong>tervention plans to be put <strong>in</strong> place without delay, digital <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> is<br />

often found to be less daunt<strong>in</strong>g, especially by younger pupils not used<br />

to traditional ‘paper and pen’ <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> methods. Engag<strong>in</strong>g, full-colour<br />

graphics <strong>in</strong>crease motivation and concentration is helped by show<strong>in</strong>g<br />

only one question at a time on the screen.<br />

CAT Interpretation & Analysis Services<br />

To help <strong>schools</strong> ga<strong>in</strong> full benefit from CAT and enable them to<br />

embed fully the power of CAT predictions <strong>in</strong>to teach<strong>in</strong>g and<br />

learn<strong>in</strong>g, GL Assessment offers comprehensive Interpretation<br />

& Analysis Services for both CAT3 and CAT4. Customers can<br />

choose between the CAT Workshop and the CAT Consultancy<br />

Service for an even deeper and more strategic level of analysis,<br />

aided by partnership with a skilled facilitator. For CAT3 users, a<br />

Strategic Report is also available.<br />

See www.gl-assessment.co.uk/catanalysis<br />

In addition, we offer four professional development modules to<br />

help <strong>schools</strong> get more from their CAT data.These modules are<br />

available for both CAT3 and CAT4.<br />

Visit www.gl-performance.co.uk/data<strong>in</strong>terpretation<br />

For more <strong>in</strong>formation, please contact us:<br />

T: 0845 602 1937 (option 3) E: pds@gl-assessment.co.uk<br />

Sample question from CAT4 Level A, suitable from<br />

7 years 6 months.<br />

11


NEW!<br />

In the spotlight: New Group Read<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Test Digital<br />

With the New Group Read<strong>in</strong>g Test Digital (NGRT<br />

Digital), GL Assessment has taken the power of<br />

onl<strong>in</strong>e <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> to a new level by mak<strong>in</strong>g the test<br />

adapt to the read<strong>in</strong>g ability of the pupil. In other<br />

words, pupils see a different version of the test<br />

depend<strong>in</strong>g on how they are scor<strong>in</strong>g as they<br />

move through the items.<br />

Aimed at pupils from 7 to 16 years, this fully standardised test<br />

comprises three sections: phonics, sentence completion and<br />

passage comprehension. Pupils enter the test accord<strong>in</strong>g to their<br />

age and beg<strong>in</strong> with the sentence completion section. Depend<strong>in</strong>g<br />

on their score, they will progress to either phonics tasks or a<br />

passage comprehension at a suitable level of difficulty. The<br />

difficulty is then slowly <strong>in</strong>creased until the pupils’ scores beg<strong>in</strong> to<br />

show that the test is becom<strong>in</strong>g too challeng<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

Developed by GL Assessment and the National Foundation for<br />

Educational Research (NFER), NGRT Digital is an ideal<br />

screen<strong>in</strong>g/monitor<strong>in</strong>g test for groups of pupils. Its ability to show<br />

the ongo<strong>in</strong>g progression and achievement of pupils makes it an<br />

essential tool that satisfies the literacy assessment requirements<br />

of all four UK <strong>in</strong>spection frameworks.<br />

The reports<br />

A detailed Group Report is available as soon as pupils have taken<br />

the test. It <strong>in</strong>cludes:<br />

• Group Scores for Sentence Completion and Passage<br />

Comprehension<br />

• Analysis by Read<strong>in</strong>g Age Equivalent Band<br />

• Group Scores for Phonics<br />

• Group Demographic Comparison.<br />

Sample questions<br />

from NGRT Digital,<br />

illustrat<strong>in</strong>g the three<br />

sections: phonics,<br />

sentence completion<br />

and passage<br />

comprehension.<br />

Why use NGRT Digital?<br />

• Pupils are not exposed to test material at an <strong>in</strong>appropriate level,<br />

mak<strong>in</strong>g the <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> process a much more positive and<br />

motivat<strong>in</strong>g experience.<br />

• Teachers and SENCOs are provided with accurate results that<br />

reveal the level of their pupils’ read<strong>in</strong>g ability. Pupils with weak<br />

skills can be tested with material at a lower level than that<br />

determ<strong>in</strong>ed by age, while pupils with high level skills are<br />

presented with material that better reflects their ability.<br />

• NGRT Digital is a time-efficient and accurate test of a pupil’s<br />

read<strong>in</strong>g progress that can be adm<strong>in</strong>istered at key po<strong>in</strong>ts – for<br />

<strong>in</strong>stance, on transfer from primary to secondary school – or<br />

used year-on-year to check progress.<br />

• Provided the test ascerta<strong>in</strong>s a pupil’s read<strong>in</strong>g ability to be at a<br />

level suitable for the passage comprehension section, NGRT<br />

Digital enables the assessment of read<strong>in</strong>g and comprehension<br />

<strong>in</strong> a s<strong>in</strong>gle test.<br />

• The assessment is ideal to screen pupils for additional support<br />

and will help determ<strong>in</strong>e what level of <strong>in</strong>tervention or further<br />

assessment may be required. It can also help identify pupils<br />

who need to be assessed <strong>in</strong>dividually for Access Arrangements.<br />

<strong>Onl<strong>in</strong>e</strong> <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> <strong>in</strong> action<br />

New Group Read<strong>in</strong>g Test Digital<br />

For some secondary school pupils who struggle with read<strong>in</strong>g, it<br />

is sometimes necessary to return to phonics <strong>in</strong> order to cement<br />

stronger foundations for read<strong>in</strong>g progress. NGRT Digital helps<br />

teachers and SENCOs to do this <strong>in</strong> an age-appropriate way by<br />

automatically tak<strong>in</strong>g those pupils with a very low sentence<br />

completion score to the phonics section <strong>in</strong> place of the passage<br />

comprehension section.<br />

Sample report show<strong>in</strong>g group scores for sentence<br />

completion and passage comprehension.<br />

Not only does this provide teachers and SENCOs with valuable<br />

phonics <strong>in</strong>formation at secondary level, it also helps identify<br />

those secondary pupils who need essential support <strong>in</strong> phonics,<br />

an element that is recognised across all UK curricula as key to<br />

read<strong>in</strong>g progress.<br />

12


In the spotlight: Parent/carer communication<br />

It is generally accepted that parental <strong>in</strong>volvement<br />

is an important lever for rais<strong>in</strong>g children’s<br />

achievement. Assessment can play a vital role <strong>in</strong><br />

this by provid<strong>in</strong>g a clear, <strong>in</strong>dependent picture of<br />

where a child is at and what needs to be done to<br />

help him/her progress.<br />

<strong>Onl<strong>in</strong>e</strong> assessment goes one step further by provid<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>stant<br />

access to assessment data, enabl<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>tervention plans to be put <strong>in</strong><br />

place early and progress monitored on a regular basis. A number of<br />

our onl<strong>in</strong>e assessments even generate reports and other types of<br />

<strong>in</strong>formation specifically designed to aid communication with<br />

parents and carers.<br />

Dyslexia Screener Digital<br />

Dyslexia Screener Digital is an <strong>in</strong>novative onl<strong>in</strong>e assessment that<br />

identifies dyslexic tendencies and recommends <strong>in</strong>tervention<br />

strategies. Fully standardised, this 30 m<strong>in</strong>ute test is an ideal tool for<br />

screen<strong>in</strong>g an entire year group or just those pupils show<strong>in</strong>g some<br />

signs of difficulty. It can play an important part <strong>in</strong> help<strong>in</strong>g both<br />

specialist and non-specialist teachers dist<strong>in</strong>guish between those<br />

<strong>in</strong>dividuals who are hav<strong>in</strong>g general difficulties <strong>in</strong> literacy and those<br />

whose difficulties are associated with dyslexia.<br />

Progress <strong>in</strong> English Digital<br />

Progress <strong>in</strong> English Digital (PiE Digital) is a standardised test of a<br />

pupil’s read<strong>in</strong>g and writ<strong>in</strong>g ability. Suitable for pupils aged 7 to 11<br />

years, it provides essential diagnostic <strong>in</strong>formation about pupils’<br />

specific strengths and needs <strong>in</strong> English. PiE Digital is used to<br />

monitor progress, <strong>in</strong>form target-sett<strong>in</strong>g, develop <strong>in</strong>dividual learn<strong>in</strong>g<br />

plans and support teacher assessment.<br />

To help <strong>schools</strong> communicate clearly with parents and carers about<br />

children’s read<strong>in</strong>g goals and progress, the <strong>in</strong>stant reports generated<br />

by PiE Digital now <strong>in</strong>clude a Lexile Measure for each pupil. This is a<br />

new measure of read<strong>in</strong>g ability that also measures text difficulty,<br />

enabl<strong>in</strong>g suitable read<strong>in</strong>g material to be mapped to a pupil. As a<br />

result, PiE Digital reports are supported by a Suggested Read<strong>in</strong>g<br />

List for each pupil based on their Lexile Measure and a sample<br />

explanatory letter for parents similar to the one shown here:<br />

To help aid parent/carer communication both before and after<br />

screen<strong>in</strong>g, the <strong>in</strong>stantly generated reports <strong>in</strong>clude a comprehensive<br />

parent/carer report that expla<strong>in</strong>s their child’s score <strong>in</strong> each of the six<br />

sub-tests. To help parents and carers understand further exactly<br />

what the test <strong>in</strong>volves, the purpose of each sub-test is expla<strong>in</strong>ed<br />

and an example question shown. Further guidance and letter<br />

templates are also <strong>in</strong>cluded.<br />

A parent/carer<br />

report is also <strong>in</strong>cluded <strong>in</strong><br />

the reports generated by<br />

Dsycalculia Screener Digital.<br />

For more <strong>in</strong>formation, visit:<br />

www.gl-assessment.co.uk<br />

/onl<strong>in</strong>e<br />

A section of the parent/carer report<br />

from Dyslexia Screener Digital.<br />

For more <strong>in</strong>formation about Lexile measures,<br />

please visit www.improvemyread<strong>in</strong>g.co.uk.<br />

13


Contact us<br />

For further <strong>in</strong>formation on onl<strong>in</strong>e <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> and our<br />

digital assessments or to arrange a visit from<br />

your regional GL Assessment consultant, please<br />

contact us.<br />

Tel: 0845 602 1937<br />

email: <strong>in</strong>fo@gl-assessment.co.uk<br />

A visit is an ideal way of gett<strong>in</strong>g all of your questions<br />

about onl<strong>in</strong>e <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong> answered, discuss<strong>in</strong>g your school’s<br />

assessment requirements <strong>in</strong> detail and see<strong>in</strong>g any of our<br />

digital assessments <strong>in</strong> action:<br />

• NEW! CAT4 Digital<br />

• CAT3 Digital<br />

• Verbal Reason<strong>in</strong>g Digital<br />

• Non-Verbal Reason<strong>in</strong>g Digital<br />

• Progress <strong>in</strong> Maths Digital<br />

• Progress <strong>in</strong> English Digital<br />

• NEW! New Group Read<strong>in</strong>g Test Digital<br />

• S<strong>in</strong>gle Word Spell<strong>in</strong>g Test Digital<br />

• Suffolk Read<strong>in</strong>g Scale Digital<br />

• Available early 2013:<br />

Pupil Attitudes to Self and School (PASS) Digital<br />

Useful l<strong>in</strong>ks<br />

GL Assessment homepage:<br />

www.gl-assessment.co.uk<br />

<strong>Onl<strong>in</strong>e</strong> <strong>test<strong>in</strong>g</strong>:<br />

www.gl-assessment.co.uk/onl<strong>in</strong>e<br />

Help documents and guidance:<br />

www.gl-assessment.co.uk/testwisehelp<br />

14


The GL Education Group is a<br />

lead<strong>in</strong>g provider of <strong>in</strong>tegrated<br />

assessments, stakeholder<br />

surveys, self-evaluation<br />

systems and professional<br />

development services.<br />

Together, our two divisions,<br />

GL Assessment and<br />

GL Performance, provide<br />

teachers with the resources<br />

and services they require to<br />

help raise standards <strong>in</strong> our<br />

children's education.<br />

With over 30 years’ experience<br />

<strong>in</strong> the education market,<br />

GL Assessment provides<br />

<strong>in</strong>tegrated assessments for<br />

children’s education, mental<br />

health and wellbe<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

Our rigorous, high-quality<br />

assessments <strong>in</strong>clude the<br />

Cognitive Abilities Test (CAT)<br />

and the Pupil Attitudes to Self<br />

and School (PASS) survey.<br />

GL Performance offers<br />

management tools and<br />

resources that are designed to<br />

maximise the impact of selfevaluation,<br />

school<br />

development plann<strong>in</strong>g and<br />

school improvement <strong>in</strong><br />

primary, secondary,<br />

<strong>in</strong>dependent and special<br />

<strong>schools</strong>, as well as <strong>schools</strong><br />

with Academy status. Our<br />

solutions <strong>in</strong>clude Kirkland<br />

Rowell Surveys, Professional<br />

Development Services and<br />

Schoolcentre.<br />

15


GL Assessment<br />

9th Floor East, 389 Chiswick High Road, London W4 4AL<br />

Tel: 0845 602 1937 Fax: 020 8996 6035 email: <strong>in</strong>fo@gl-assessment.co.uk www.gl-assessment.co.uk<br />

GLA533

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