In May 2007, Grade 3 students participated in a primary literacy assessment which measured their performance in reading comprehension and in writing. Grade 9 students took part in a common assessment of their knowledge and skills in seven areas of math.

Minister Greenan said the assessments are being done to monitor and improve the performance of the education system, schools and students. “These first assessments provide us with baseline information on how students are doing. Over time, they will provide trends that tell us how well our interventions are working,” he said. “The information helps to keep parents informed of the progress of their children and schools. It will be helpful to educators and parents as they work together on school development plans to improve academic achievement, the school culture and parent involvement in learning.”

Assessments are planned for 2008 in Grade 3 reading and writing, Grade 6 reading and writing, and Grade 9 math.