Language Conventions
The Language Conventions test assesses spelling, grammar and punctuation. Literacy knowledge and skills are essential to effective communication across all learning areas. However, the tools of language, including language conventions, are explicitly developed in the English learning are of each state and territory curriculum, and the Language Conventions test is underpinned by the Statements of Learning for English (MCEECDYA 2005).
The Language Conventions test focuses on the use and knowledge of language conventions in written Standard Australian English. These skills are essential to the development of reading and writing. The content of the Language Conventions test particularly complements the Writing test where spelling, grammar and punctuation are explicitly assessed in context. However, students’ understanding of language conventions is also necessary for reading.
National Minimum Standards describe some of the skills and understandings students are generally expected to demonstrate at their particular year schooling. There are two sets of minimum standards for Language Conventions – minimum standards for spelling, and minimum standards for grammar & punctuation. This is because it is not possible to establish a single assessment scale for all these areas. The standards are intended to be a snapshot of typical achievement and do not describe the full range of what students are taught or what they may achieve. For further information on standards and scales, see How to interpret.