Our Top 3 Tips on How to Ace the NAPLAN English Tests

Written by 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!

English Comprehension 

• The first thing I would like you to try, next time you are doing a practice paper, is to read the questions first. The reason for this is that you will have a broad scope of what the text is about and know exactly what you should be looking for when reading the text. Ultimately, for reading comprehension, we must answer the set questions- so if you already know what the questions are, the chances of you implicitly looking for these answers will be higher. 
• It also helps to highlight or circle keywords from the extract as you are reading. ESPECIALLY, if it is an informative text and you need to find data or statistics. 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. 
• My top tip is to find a spare booklet and within that book, 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 on them. This is the best and most organic way to build up your vocabulary and improve your spelling.
• Next, a similar tip to help with grammar is to write any sentences you find aesthetic or advanced from your text and write them down. This way you can remember the structure and apply it to your own writing.

Writing

• Writing is one of those things that it can only be improved through practice. So, quick exercises you can do is to do quick writing sessions that are 10-15 minutes long (quick and easy) to build up your speed and “thinking on the spot” skills.
• 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 structures and language. Is your writing in paragraphs? Does it have an introduction/ orientation or a conclusion? This method is casual yet effective for improving your 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.