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MEC Grant announces details on the Western Cape Education Department's 2010 literacy and numeracy assessment tests
7 Jun 2010 Ensuring that all our learners are able to read, write and calculate at the appropriate level is a key priority for this administration. In order to identify problem areas and to undertake remedial action in the fields of literacy and numeracy performance, the Western Cape leads the rest of the country in the use of extensive testing for grade three and six learners. Since 2002, the Western Cape Education Department has conducted diagnostic tests on the levels of literacy and numeracy among grades three and six learners in alternate years. From 2010, all grade three and six learners will be tested every year. For the first time, this programme will also be extended to grade nines. The 2010 test, however, will be treated as a pilot and will cover the full cohort of grade nine learners. Testing will be in the language of learning and teaching (English and Afrikaans) and mathematics only. All the tests are systemic in nature and will assist the Western Cape Education Department to support schools in improving levels of literacy and numeracy. The results of the testing will also assist schools to identify areas for improvement. They are administered by independent service providers appointed by Western Cape Education Department. Since its inception, the diagnostic tests have not been conducted at independent schools. However, following recent visits by Western Cape Education Department officials to selected independent schools, many have indicated their willingness to participate in the programme. Starting in 2010, grade six and nine learners from independent schools will also be invited to participate in the testing programme with learner numbers of more than 10. Grade three learners from independent schools will not be included in the 2010 testing programme as planning for this year is already at an advanced stage. Testing in 2010 will take place between 6 and 19 October and is scheduled for one day per school. Media enquiries:
Bronagh Casey
Cell: 072 7241 422
Tel: 021 467 2377 Issued by: Western Cape Education
7 Jun 2010
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