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10/08/2011
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QCDA is closing as part of the Government's education reforms. We're updating our website to reflect our reducing remit until the site closes in autumn 2011. You can find removed content in the National Archives web archive.

Years 7, 8 and 9 optional tests

QCDA optional tests are designed to help teachers monitor the progression of pupils through key stage 3. 

We have reviewed all the year 7, 8 and 9 optional tests for 2011 and there are now brand new tests for year 9 and updated resources for years 7 and 8.

For further information please download the brochures for English, mathematics and science optional tests from the Resources section on the right-hand side of this page.

Schools can use optional tests selectively as part of a repertoire of assessment tools, including the assessing pupils' progress (APP) materials developed by QCDA. Tests will be marked internally and results will not be collected or published.

About the optional tests for years 7, 8 and 9

All the year 9 tests are brand new for 2011. The year 7 and 8 mathematics tests have been updated for 2011 with new test questions and practical teaching suggestions. The year 7 and 8 English materials have been updated for 2011 with new teacher guidance. Please note that the year 7 and 8 English pupil packs remain the same as last year.

English tests for years 7, 8 and 9

Download: English tests for years 7, 8 and 9

These tests are designed for pupils working across levels 3 to 7 of the national curriculum for English. There are separate reading and writing tests for each year, plus two Shakespeare papers for year 9. Guidance is given on interpreting pupil level outcomes with and without the Shakespeare element.

Mathematics tests for years 7, 8 and 9

Download: Mathematics tests for years 7, 8 and 9

These tests are designed for pupils working across levels 3 to 7 of the national curriculum for mathematics. There are different papers for each tier in each year. You no longer need to include a mental mathematics test to interpret pupil level outcomes.

Science tests for year 9

Download: Science tests for year 9

These brand new tests are intended for year 9 pupils working across levels 4 to 7 of the national curriculum for science. The 2011 tests have been developed to reflect the 2008 programme of study, with added emphasis given to How science works. The teacher guide includes new commentary on answers frequently given during trialling, with implications for teaching and learning.

Last modified: 13 Sep 2010