Assessments

Baseline Tests:

The average GCSE score is the primary baseline for Alis. This has repeatedly been found to be the best single indicator of post-16 performance.  We also have two optional baseline tests available which are free of charge, one paper-based and one online:

• Test of Developed Ability (TDA) – traditional paper-based test
• Computer Adaptive Baseline Test (CABT) – Online test

These tests provide an additional perspective on results and can be used for students with no / few GCSE results, or maybe who you feel have over achieved or under achieved at GCSE.

The test includes compulsory vocabulary and maths sections, an optional non-verbal section. The vocabulary section is useful for assessing fluency, the maths section covers a wide range of numerical concepts and manipulations and the non-verbal section aims to assess the perceptual speed and accuracy of the student.

The whole test is designed to measure ability rather than achievement, fluency rather than knowledge, and the paper version is timed so that most students will not finish.

Attitudinal Questionnaires:

The Extended ALIS Questionnaire, generally takes about an hour to complete, covers many areas - including attitudes to school (or college), courses, Teaching and Learning and career plans.

Students are also asked to comment on their responses to some open-ended questions.

The questionnaire can either be taken on paper (in Term 2 of Year 2) or online (in Term 2 of Year 1).