Jim Higgins
Question:84 Mr. Higgins (Mayo) asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has assessed the possibility of introducing a baseline test of literacy and numeracy at first class in primary school. [7460/98]
Written Answers. - Literacy and Numeracy Tests.
In the great majority of schools it is now normal practice that teachers assess the attainments of pupils in literacy and mathematics at different stages in their progress through school. It is particularly important that they do so at the early stages of pupils' careers in school so that pupils who are having difficulties in acquiring basic skills in literacy and-or numeracy are identified and helped as early as possible. For many years my Department has supported the provision of courses for teachers in the use of educational tests. The majority of school now use a variety of standardised and diagnostic tests to assess pupil progress and to identify pupils with learning difficulties. Decisions on the extent and timing of this testing of pupils are a matter for each school.