As educators, we often grapple with the challenge of preparing students for standardised tests while maintaining authentic teaching practices. Sharon Callen's insights on NAPLAN preparation offer a refreshing perspective that aligns test readiness with excellent teaching practices. Here's how we can transform NAPLAN preparation from a source of stress to an opportunity for genuine learning.
Changing the Mindset: From Testing to Showcasing
Instead of viewing NAPLAN as just another test, consider it an opportunity for students to showcase what they've learned. This subtle shift in perspective can dramatically change how we approach preparation and how students engage with the assessment. Rather than "teaching to the test," we're empowering students to demonstrate their capabilities.
Integration Over Isolation
The most effective NAPLAN preparation doesn't happen in isolation. Quick Writes, for instance, can be seamlessly integrated into your regular literacy block. These 10-minute exercises not only build writing stamina but also give students practice with planning, drafting, revising, and editing – essential skills for both NAPLAN and life-long writing.
Building Reading Confidence
For reading preparation, focus on everyday strategies that develop comprehensive literacy skills:
- Use read-alouds to expose students to various text types
- Build reading stamina through independent reading time
- Teach specific strategies for engaging with informational and imaginative texts
- Encourage students to capture their thinking using post-it notes or reading journals
- Practise distinguishing between explicit and implicit information
The Power of Quick Writes
Quick Writes deserve special attention as they offer multiple benefits:
- They provide regular practice with time management
- Students learn to respond to prompts effectively
- The brief format allows for immediate feedback
- They build confidence through repeated success
- The process naturally incorporates planning and revision
Test Sophistication Without Test Stress
While it's important to familiarise students with the NAPLAN format, this shouldn't dominate your teaching time. Spend a few short sessions exploring:
- Multiple choice strategies
- Online test navigation
- Time management techniques
- Question types and how to approach them
Remember, this "test sophistication" phase should be brief – perhaps just a week or two before the assessment.
Creating a Supportive Environment
The key to successful NAPLAN preparation lies in creating an environment where:
- Students feel confident about showcasing their abilities
- Regular writing and reading practices build necessary skills
- Editing and revision become natural parts of the writing process
- Multiple choice questions are approached strategically
- Test preparation enhances rather than replaces good teaching
The Role of Editing and Revision
Develop strong editing habits through:
- Creating class editing charts
- Teaching specific strategies for spelling correction
- Practising regular revision in short bursts
- Building visual checking strategies
- Encouraging independence in editing
Looking Forward
As we prepare our students for NAPLAN, let's remember that our goal extends beyond the test itself. We're building confident, capable learners who can showcase their abilities not just during assessments, but throughout their educational journey.
The most valuable NAPLAN preparation isn't about drilling practice tests or cramming content. It's about integrating test-ready strategies into our everyday teaching in ways that enhance learning rather than restrict it. When we focus on developing genuine skills and confidence, test success becomes a natural outcome rather than a stressful goal.
Remember, our students don't need to practise taking tests as much as they need to practise being good readers, writers, and thinkers. When we get that right, the test takes care of itself.