SPaG tests - overview
Please note these are currently referenced to the subjects of the national curriculum for England, rather than the new Curriculum for Wales. However, we are aware that some schools in Wales find these helpful and so have made them available within Cwricwlwm Maestro.
The Cornerstones SPaG Tests have been created using the content and cognitive domains outlined in the Key Stage 1 English grammar, punctuation and spelling test framework. The style of the tests matches the SATs and the sample papers provided by the Department for Education.
General test information
They mirror the style of the KS1 SATs Papers and are designed to be used at the end of every term. They will support classroom assessment and gap analysis across each Years 1-6. The tests can be used to highlight children’s individual needs and track their progress against programmes of study throughout the year. Results can be used to inform planning, allowing you to address the learning needs of your children.
There is no test for Year 1 in the autumn term, to give the children time to transition from EYFS into Key Stage 1.
We invite schools to return their test scores to us s that we can analyse the results and create termly conversion tools that We have a deadline date for schools to return their test scores to us for each term. Using this termly data from schools ensures the conversions and analysis are as up-to-date with current attainment. Teachers can then add in the scores that the children got and the spreadsheet will convert the raw scores into either an ARE banding or an estimated standardised score.
To help us create our termly conversion tools for you to analyse your test results, your test scores can be emailed to us at assessment@cornerstoneseducation.co.uk.
What is the format of the Spelling tests?
Each spelling test requires children to write 20 words. A practice question is also included at the start to ease children into the test. We have provided a prompt sheet for each test which places each word within the context of a sentence. These should be read aloud clearly by the test administrator so the children understand which words they are being asked to write.
The recommended time to complete the Spelling Test is 15 minutes.
What is the format of the Grammar, Punctuation and Vocabulary Tests?
- In Year 1, there are ten questions for children to answer.
- In Year 2, each test requires children to answer 18 questions (worth 20 marks). Two practice questions are also included at the start to familiarise children with the format. The questions are placed in approximate order of difficulty.
- In Years 3 and 4 there are 30 questions for children to answer.
- In Years 5 and 6, each test requires children to answer 50 questions. The questions are placed in approximate order of difficulty.
In KS1, the recommended time to complete the Grammar, Punctuation and Vocabulary Test is 20 minutes. In KS2, children should be given 45 minutes to complete the test independently.
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