Preparing for the National Tests
End of Key Stage Three
Most 14-year-olds in
the UK are expected
to achieve level 5 or 6
- A one hour written test for which pupils may not use a calculator;
- A one hour written test for which pupils may use a calculator;
- A mental arithmetic taped test lasting approximately 20 minutes, consisting of 30 questions for which pupils are encouraged to work out their answers in their heads.
- An extension paper is available for students of exceptional ability.
What can parents do to help?
- Encourage your child and be supportive when they are practising their mathematics at home;
- Discuss the past papers the child has attempted;
- Take every opportunity to give mental arithmetic challenges to your child when stuck in traffic jams or around the house;
- While shopping at the supermarket keep an estimate of the total cost of the items in the shopping basket. Mentally work out sale prices quoted as 10%, 25% or 331/3% off;
- Look at the capacities and weights listed on the sides of food packets, cans and bottles. Try to guess the weights or volumes to become more familiar with metric and imperial units;
- Estimating distances is useful too. Know the measurements of your height, handspan etc in a variety of units;
- Ensure your child has all the necessary equipment for the tests.
