Progress Tests will begin on [DATE TBC] and will end on [DATE TBC]. Students will sit tests in all their subjects; the experience provides them with an opportunity to test their recall, develop an understanding of how to prepare for tests, and a chance to demonstrate the progress they have made to date.
At CHS South we recognise that students have different starting points and are diverse types of learners. We endeavour to ensure that our students make the most progress possible, regardless of their starting point. To do this successfully we have to have an assessment system that is easy to understand, clearly demonstrates progress and is suitably robust and relevant.
Progress Tests are a mix of multiple choice, short, medium, and long answer questions which test pupil's knowledge of what they have been taught each term and since the beginning of the year.
Most Curriculum Areas highlight the students' exercise books as the most valuable tool for revision purposes. The tests are on what has been covered over the past term although content of the test builds up over the academic year. It is also worth referring to our 'Frameworks for Learning' for further information. At the beginning of the Spring term, students will receive their Progress Test Handbook. This will provide the students with the necessary dates for the tests and specific information about how to revise.
Revision is a skill that learners need to familiarise themselves with. Students have access to Microsoft Teams and SharePoint, the online platforms we used which contains lots of useful revision materials.
Students will receive feedback from two sources. Firstly, they will receive a raw score which tells them how many marks they have gained; this will be supported by some analysis of how they have done areas, with strengths highlighted along with specific areas for developments.
Secondly, we will send home short reports with Progress Statements, which are a comparison of how students have performed compared to students with a similar starting point. These are useful to see how well students are progressing and how much effort is being made in each subject area.
The Progress Tests generate information on how the students are doing in the subject. The results are one of many contributing factors to setting and set movements.
Digital versions of our Progress Test Handbooks are available in the 'Documents' sections to view and download for the forthcoming Progress Tests.
Students will also receive a hard copy to support preparations for their tests.