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Written question asked by Sharon Hodgson (Labour) on Monday, 22 July 2019, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 24 July 2019. It was answered by Nick Gibb (Conservative) on Tuesday, 30 July 2019 on behalf of the Department for Education.


Pupils: Literacy

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, if he will increase the time available for pupils sitting the Key Stage 2 reading assessment to reflect the increase in the number of words included in that test since 2014.

Answer

A new curriculum was introduced in 2014. Tests reflecting that curriculum were introduced in 2016. Since then the time allowed for the Key Stage 2 reading assessment has not changed. The test framework for the English reading test places a limit on the number of words that can be included in the texts and this limit has not been breached.

Assessments go through a rigorous test development process lasting three years. Thorough trialling of the materials, with the texts in the combinations they will appear in a final test, allows test developers to ensure the reading booklets are suitable and that the standard is maintained.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
280189
Session
2017-19
Subjects
Assessments Pupils Primary education Literacy
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk