NAPLAN Tips For English

Elisa Han

Hi Everyone, this is a follow up post from the previous blog advising everyone on the best way to prepare for ENGLISH specific subjects, so today’s post will be split into the three main sections and my tips on how to maximise your marks. Let’s get started!

Reading Comprehension 

• Whenever you are doing a comprehension test, always  read the questions before you read the texts. Not only will this give you some clues about what the text is about, but it will help you know exactly what you should be looking for when reading the text. As you read, you’ll already be on the lookout for the answers you need!
• It also helps to highlight or circle keywords from the extract as you are reading. You can underline, circle or highlight important phrases so revisiting the text would become easier.

Language Conventions

• Reading! Yes, you saw that correctly. The best way to prepare for language conventions is to see how language is applied in everyday life and the most accessible and correct version is through reading books. 
• Whenever you are reading a new text, write down all the words that you find unfamiliar in that book. Then, at the end of each day or chapter (find a time or system that works best for you), look up all the definitions and write the definition next to each new vocabulary. Then, use the tried and true “look, cover, write, check” to practice spelling them. This is the best and most organic way to build your vocabulary and improve your spelling.

Writing

• Writing is one of those things that can only be improved through practice. Try to practice through quick writing sessions that are 10-15 minutes long (quick and easy) to build up your speed and your ability to “think on the spot”.
• Pick any object in front of you and in the next 10 minutes, write as much as you can about it- try not to think about the complexity of the sentences, just focus on getting words on paper. You can try to sell the product or write a narrative where the product is essential. 
• Next, you want to take 5 minutes to edit and read through your work. This is when you can apply your knowledge of structure and language. Is your writing in paragraphs? Have you used complex sentences? Does every sentence start with a capital letter and end with a full stop or some other punctuation mark? Does it have an introduction/orientation or a conclusion? Use the NAPLAN marking criteria, which can be found online, as a checklist to make sure you have included everything you need
• Spend 10 minutes editing and marking your own work. During this time, you want to ensure that your writing ANSWERS the question. Did you go off on tangents? Were there parts in your writing that seemed to have gaps and moved too quickly? If possible, get someone else to read your work. If they ever stop to ask you questions or clarify concepts, that’s a great way to know where you need to improve. Play with syntax and see how your expression can change your entire piece of writing!!

I wish everyone the best of luck for their NAPLAN exams, and remember to relax and not be stressed out because we want to be in the best condition for the exam and enter the room with a clear mindset. Good luck and I hope everyone achieves their deserving mark 🙂