Assessing KS3 Science without levels

Assessing KS3 Science without levels

1. Where are we at now?

   • Assessment at KS3 - staff currently use the fine grading level system. Our databases correlate levels 3C - 7A for Year 7 and 3A - 8A for Year 8 assessment. The current system also allows for staff to see a students progress against the current (legacy) GCSE A*-C system

2. Where do we want to be?

   • In a position where we are able to assess our KS3 students throughout Year 7 and 8 using a point grade system which is in line with the new GCSE grading system (9-1) allowing a smooth transition from KS3 into KS4 at the stage when year 8 sit their end of key stage in school assessment and move into the GCSE year in Year 9

3. How do we get there?

   • Bring staff on board with the new grades and what they mean compared to the old system
   • Bring students on board - what do the new grades in Science mean?
   • WAGOLLs - What does a grade 1 look like? What does a grade 5 look like? etc.
   • Inform parents about the changes as this will need to be done for all year groups - Year 7 should not be an issue, but Year 8, Year 9 and new Year 10 will need a launch