National testing of pupils in Europe : objectives, organisation and use of results, Malta 2009

Abstract

At Kindergarten Level (ages 3 to 5) pupil assessment focuses on their physical development, social development, creative development, intellectual development (which includes language and mathematical development) and their understanding of the world around them. At this level there is no formal teaching; the Kindergarten practitioner is responsible for the creation of learning opportunities and assessment activities that are related to the areas of development indicated earlier. Assessment is carried out informally and is based thoroughly on pupil observation. At Primary Level (ages 5 to 10+) pupil assessment is carried out differently in Years 1 to 3 and in Years 4 to 6. In the first three years of Primary Education assessment is carried out informally and for a formative purpose. This paper discusses the objectives, organization, and use of results of the national testing of pupils in Malta. This paper contains the following parts: (1) General Overview of Pupil Assessment; (2) Historical Background to National Testing and its Political Framework; (3) Aims and Organizations of National Testing; and (4) Impact of National Testing. A bibliography is included.