Over the next few weeks, we will look at some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about NAPLAN and provide answers to these. Comments and questions from readers are welcomed.
FAQ1 How were the NAPLAN tests developed?
The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) was developed collaboratively by the states and territories, the Australian Government and the non-government school sectors. It operates under the auspices of education ministers and is overseen by a steering group comprising senior executives from states, territories and the Australian Government as well as representatives from the Catholic and independent school sectors.NAPLAN test development in 2008 and 2009 was managed on behalf of education ministers by Curriculum Corporation in consultation with the NAPLAN Project Reference Group (PRG). The PRG comprises senior test managers from each state and territory as well as representatives of the Catholic and independent school sectors. The steering group was also advised by an Expert Advisory Group comprising five eminent assessment and educational measurement experts.
Detailed answers and responses to the official sample NAPLAN questions and the May 2008 and May 2009 NAPLAN tests are available from Kilbaha Multimedia Publishing. Download the order form here.
