Vol. 483 No. 2
151 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on whether there should be a standard test for numeracy and literacy carried out under the supervision of his Department prior to the transition from primary to secondary school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19971/97]
It is routine practice in most primary schools now to assess the progress of pupils at the end of each year and particularly at the end of the final year at school. This assessment usually involves the administration of a range of tests which are based on the work of the year and include tests of literacy and numeracy as well as other aspects of the curriculum. The tests used include standardised tests in reading and mathematics as well as teacher designed instruments for the assessment of other aspects of the curriculum. The results of such testing form the basis of progress reports to parents and of reports on pupils transferring to second level for the information of their schools.
The administration, under the supervision of my Department, of a standard test for literacy and numeracy at the end of primary schooling is not envisaged at present. However, the assessment of pupil achievements generally within the curriculum in primary schools is being reviewed by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment and a committee has been established by the council to advise on the matter. The report of the council on this matter will be available later in the school year.
