Year 6 SATs 2014 Information 4th February 2014

Why do we do SATs? Standard Assessment Tests are designed to test pupils’ knowledge and understanding of the Key Stage 2 curriculum. They provide a level of attainment in: Reading Mathematics SPaG Science* *(from 2010, only selected schools/pupils. Results will not be reported at school level.)

What do SATs tell us? SATs results contribute to the information your child’s future teacher receives about your child’s ability and standard of work They also show the teachers which area of work your child needs to focus on next They help the secondary school set individual targets for your child’s needs At the end of Year 6 your child’s teacher will assess their progress from Year 2 to Year 6, which will also inform the secondary school.

SATs Levels There is no pass or fail mark At the end of Key Stage 2 the ‘average’ or ‘expected’ attainment is a level 4 in the tests The levels range from level 3 to level 5. There is also a separate test that tests Level 6. Only a very small selection of children will complete this.

Key Information It is vital that ALL children are in school in the run up to the tests, when revision is being undertaken It is vital that ALL children are in school during SATs week If your child is seriously unwell on the morning of a test, please contact the school immediately. If your child is under the weather and you would normally keep them at home, we would encourage you to bring the child in for the period of the test only.

SATs Week Not long to go! 3rd-7th Feb 10th-14th Feb Half Term 3rd – 7th March 10th – 15th March 17th – 21st March 24th – 28th March 31st – 4th April Easter Holiday 22nd – 25th April 4 days 28th – 2nd May 6th – 9th May SATs Week

SATs Week am pm Monday 12 May Tuesday 13 May Wednesday 14 May Thursday 15 May Friday 16 May am English Reading Test English Grammar, Punctuation and Spelling Test Mental Maths Test Maths Test Paper A Maths Test Paper B pm Level 6 English Reading Test Level 6 Maths Test Paper 1 and 2

English Reading Test The test will include different texts such as stories, poems, explanations, interviews and reports that the children have to answer questions about. Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar Test There is a 20 word spelling test There is also a test booklet which tests the children on their ability to use and identify punctuation and grammar.

Over to you… Spend a few minutes looking through the reading and SPaG test papers.

Mathematics There are three maths tests: Test A Test B Mental Arithmetic

Over to you… Mental Arithmetic Test Have a go at the questions on the sheet.

Science We will be notified by the end of the Spring term if we have been selected to participate on the Science assessments. The outcome of these tests is not shared with the schools or the children, it is simply a national sample.

Between Now and Then… Preparation for the tests is very important Class 7 and 8 teachers will continue to give practice tests throughout the coming term Children will review their answers, be told their results and get given tips for improvement Homework will support the concepts that will be needed in the tests, acting as revision.

How can you support your child? Give them quick fire recall tests in multiplication and division tables Encourage your child to visit and use some good quality ‘revision’ websites: BBC Bitesize, My Maths, Kent ICT Education City, Sumdog – English and maths Plan fun activities at the weekend to help your child relax (as they are working hard at school during the week!) Keep sleep patterns consistent – even through the Easter holidays. Healthy eating contributes to brain power. Regular meals are vital as is a good breakfast every morning!

Special Arrangements The school decides on, and makes appropriate arrangements for children with a range of learning needs. If this affects your child you should already be aware of this as they will have had practice with, for example, a reader or a scribe. Some children may also be allowed extra time to complete their tests.

Any Questions? Thank you for your continued support.