NAPLAN assesses literacy and numeracy skills that students are already learning through the school curriculum. Students cannot prepare specifically for the NAPLAN tests and are not expected to do so.
The tests contain questions similar to those that occur as part of regular classroom learning, teaching and assessment practice. Schools should familiarise students with the test process and question formats, which is different to over-rehearsing.
Parents/carers can help their child by reassuring them that NAPLAN is just one part of their school program, and by reminding them on the day to simply do their best.
NAPLAN public demonstration site
Schools should ensure students are familiar with the types of questions in the online tests and provide students with appropriate support and guidance.
Schools are encouraged to use the NAPLAN public demonstration site to determine whether adjustments built into the NAP locked down browser (e.g. the magnification tool) can enable students with disability to access the tests on the same basis as other students.
Sample tests
Sample tests for writing, reading, conventions of language and numeracy for each NAPLAN test year level are available online from the NAPLAN public demonstration site.
These sample tests contain questions that show the types of technology-enhanced features of the online tests, including interactive navigation, audio features and drag and drop style responses.
Practice test
The NAPLAN practice test is the primary opportunity for students to be familiarised with the online assessment platform and item types. More information on the practice test can be found on the School readiness page.
Branching messages
Students will also have the opportunity to be familiarised with the branching messages that occur between testlets in the practice test.
ACARA has also created a resource to support schools in familiarising students with branching messages:
Use of past NAPLAN test items
The National Protocols have strict requirements on the use of past NAPLAN test items for teaching and learning purposes. For information on how a school can use and share past NAPLAN test materials refer to Section 4 of the National protocols for test administration .
Principals should always ensure they consult the current National protocols for test administration as these requirements change from year to year due to ACARA's obligations to third-party copyright agreements.
Failing to comply with these requirements can constitute a serious breach of the National Protocols for Test Administration.
Please contact the QCAA for further assistance.
- Last updated:
- 17 January 2024
