Spring Term Spelling Assessment Term 1 and Progress Tests Guidance

The Spring Term Spelling Assessment and Progress Tests for Year 6, provided by KS2Gems, offer a structured approach to evaluating students' spelling proficiency. The pack includes two progress tests and a teacher version for each, along with an analysis grid to pinpoint areas where students may need additional support. The initial assessment should be conducted at the start of the term, allowing a week within the Spelling Programme to address any weaknesses identified. Progress Test 1 is recommended after completing weeks 2 to 6 of the programme, with a subsequent review week included. Similarly, Progress Test 2 should follow weeks 8 to 11, with the same provision for review. These assessments test various spelling domains, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of the students' abilities.

Administering the test involves a clear briefing to the pupils, explaining the process and rules such as working independently and the protocol for changing answers. The test, lasting approximately 15 minutes, requires the teacher to read out sentences with missing words, providing context for the target spelling words. A 12-second gap between spellings ensures students have adequate time to write their answers. Marking the test is straightforward, with one mark awarded for each correct spelling. Specific guidelines ensure fairness and consistency, such as handling multiple attempts, the use of upper or lower case letters, and the treatment of crossed-out answers. The teacher versions of the tests provide sample sentences to be used during the assessment, facilitating a smooth and structured testing experience.