G – Grammar P – Punctuation S – Spelling

 There is no longer a written test. Prior to 2011, children at the end of primary school had to sit a writing test. The test analysed the children’s spelling and grammar abilities, creativity and capacity to structure texts.  Now writing is teacher assessed. Children do not need to be tested in writing. Instead teachers collect writing that children complete over the course of the year. They decide on the level that the children leave with in year 6.

 The test is split into two parts. In the first section, children have roughly 40 questions to answer. This section of the test analyses their understanding of the English language, punctuation and grammar.  This part of the test is 45 minutes long.  The second part of the test is a spelling test. There are 20 spellings. There is no time limit for this section.

 In order to answer the questions on the written SPaG paper, children need to understand the following terminology. ArticleSynonym PrepositionAdverb PhraseAdjective ClauseVerb Subordinate ClauseNoun Main ClauseConnective/Conjunction AntonymPrefix

 The marking of the written test is VERY strict. If children don’t follow the instructions to the letter, answers will be marked incorrect.  For example, if capital letters are used in the middle of sentences, then even if the answer is correct, no marks will be given.

 Spelling is a big focus for St Marys at the minute. For children to achieve national expected, they need to be getting at least 12 or 13 on the spelling part of the test. This can be quite tricky as the spellings are hard.  Here are some examples from previous spelling papers. ExtinguishingApproximately Disappeared Necessary Successful Environment

 Use the link on our website to play the spelling, punctuation and grammar games.  Extra work at home – on our website you will find a link for parents which suggests activities you can do with your children at home.  Make sure children practice their spellings at home. If you see them spell a word incorrectly, please correct them.  This is also the case for capital letters in words. If you see it, please make them go back and change it.