To assess progress, repeat the test at the end of the Program (after 9 to 12 months).ĭownload the South Australian Spelling Test and the Answer Template here: Students in the critically low group almost certainly need additional support from the teacher in order to 54 Alternatively, use the formatted sheet and photocopy as required.I recommend teachers test the students at the beginning of a Program using the South Australian Spelling Test.
The critically low score represents the score below which only 10% of the age group would be scoring. ‘Normal’ range indicates the spread of scores within which 50% of the students of that age score. It is also possible to determine whether the student is performing within the ‘normal’ range of scores for his or her age level, or whether the score is critically low. Table 1 (for Form A) and Table 3 (for Form B) allow the teacher to compare a student’s raw score with the average score obtained by other students of the same age. No credit should be given for correct responses occurring after a block of ten consecutive errors. SCORE INTERPRETATION The student’s raw score is obtained by counting the number of items correct on his or her test sheet. Ensure that the correct table of norms is consulted when determining students’ spelling ages and interpreting scores (Tables 1 and 2 for Form A and Tables 3 and 4 for Form B). When marking do not penalise for reversals, eg., b and d. When marking do not give credit for any words beyond the tenth consecutive error. (Note: Not a total of ten errors anywhere in the test, but a block of ten words coming together.) 8. It is usual to stop testing after a student has failed a block of ten consecutive items. Students should be encouraged to attempt as many items as possible but with young children, or students with learning difficulties, do not prolong the test unnecessarily. If any of the sentences suggested here appear inappropriate for the age or ability level being tested they can be changed by the tester provided that the sense of the word is retained. How much will the ticket COST? Write COST.” 5. Then repeat the word, saying for example: “Number 19: COST. The method of administration is to say the number of the item. If not using the formatted sheets, students should number each item before writing the response. Each student requires a sheet of paper and pen or pencil. Students should be seated in a position where copying from others is not possible.