Assessment is an all-encompassing word describing activities which range from high frequency low stakes activities like 1 – 10 tests, single mark questions and closed questions designed to test the retention of specific information or the application of a single skill, to low frequency high stakes summative assessments like formal written exams, final performance pieces or practical work. All assessment activities will be designed to utilise spacing and interleaving. At the Academy Students will be assessed against the descriptors below.
A pupil working at this level in a subject has a comprehensive understanding of key concepts and skills in the sequence of learning as shown in the subject curriculum document. They can apply their skills and understanding across the subject. They demonstrate fluency in the concepts, methods and skills covered and are able to make links between information covered at the beginning of the course and that which is being studied now. A pupil working at this level consistently scores very highly in their low stakes tests and has high scores in more substantial assessments.
A pupil working at this level has a sound understanding of key concepts and skills in the sequence of learning as shown in the subject curriculum document. They are confident in their understanding and use of the concepts, methods and skills covered but may need to refer back to guidance occasionally as these are not yet second nature to them. A pupil working at this level usually scores highly in their low stakes tests and has relatively high scores in more substantial assessments.
A pupil working at this level is developing an understanding of key concepts and is grasping some of the main ideas and skills in a sequence of learning; some aspects of the curriculum require further development. They are familiar with concepts, methods and skills covered but struggle to use all of them without guidance or support. A pupil working at this level is inconsistent in their scores in their low stakes tests and has relatively low scores in more substantial assessments.
A pupil working at this level has an emerging understanding of key concepts and is beginning to grasp some of the main ideas and skills in a sequence of learning. They are starting to develop the concepts, methods and skills covered but require guidance and support to remember how to apply them or where to find key information previously covered. A pupil working at this level consistently achieves low scores in their low stakes tests and has consistently low scores in more substantial assessments. A pupil working at this level may require more support in lessons and at home to build their memory of the key ideas and skills for this subject.
Low attendance to lessons has severely impacted curriculum coverage. There is insufficient evidence of learning over time to be able to report a level of curriculum understanding. Additional support is required to catch up on missed curriculum content. There are very few examples of low stakes testing and assessments for this pupil.
At KS3:
- English, Maths, Science, History and Geography and MFL will set two formal written papers to coincide with the dates for reporting cards. Information from the assessment will appear on the report card as well as a curriculum progress statement (emerging, developing, secure or mastery).
- For all other subjects in KS3 high stakes testing will be carried out at different points in the year. The outcome of these assessments will be used to inform the decision about which curriculum progress statement (emerging, developing, secure or mastery) will be recorded on the report card.
