Secondary Learning Support News

Power of Standardized Assessment Tests – BMIS perspective

At BMIS we are committed to using scientific approaches in identifying learning needs and in making decisions to best support learners to realise their full potential. To achieve this informative approach, we match the existing data to the normal way of working of each learner; this is to understand whether or not they are making progress within their potential. Where there is a pronounced disparity between performance and potential, we then employ the use of standardised assessments as a yardstick to guide us in our decisions.

In Secondary school, a number of teachers are involved in learning support activities. The inclusion leader carries out extra standardised assessments and focused observations then discusses the findings and their implications of learning with the respective teachers. Currently, there are two standardised assessments that we use to support learning. To determine the reading age, possible working habits, ability to comprehend and apply meaning, we use the New Group Reading Test (NGRT). The outcomes highlight the areas of teaching and inform the learners on what to focus on during independent study.

To understand and apply for Access Arrangements in examinations, we use the highly recommended GL Exact Assessment which measures word recognition, reading comprehension accuracy, reading comprehension speed, spelling, typing and handwriting speed, areas that are considered in awarding these arrangements. In the past, we have had some of our students awarded Access Arrangement in their final examinations following the Exact outcomes. Some of the students and teachers were asked to comment on how beneficial standardised tests have been to teaching and learning. This is what they had to say:

Kevin (Year 7): “The test made me know my reading age and what to improve on to become a better reader.”

Ayaan (Year 8): “This test helped me to know the help I will get in my exam like extra time.”

Poul (Year 10): “The standardised assessment tests help me to know what I am doing well in and what I need to improve on, and that really helps me.”

David R (Year 10): “Exact has helped me to better understand what I need to target in order to improve my test time and the need to improve my handwriting and that I should be granted extra time during exams.”

Ms Simon (English and Kiswahili Teacher): “Standardised tests give the students the opportunity to gauge their understanding of topics and retaining of vocabulary. I also get to know students' areas of strength and areas of need to support them to make progress.”

Ms Mkok (English Teacher): “Standardised tests help me identify areas where pupils are strong or require additional support. I use this data to improve teaching and learning in my lessons.”

Cornelius Ondieki – Learning Support