The number of items assessing each science capability and NOS sub-strand varies from test to test. The decision about which test each unit was placed in was influenced by how students in all three year levels responded to the questions in the norming trial.
The assessment focus in test JS1
Test JS1 has an emphasis on gathering and interpreting data and interpreting simple representations. This reflects the importance, in the early years of science learning, of careful observation to identify patterns and being able to read and understand simple graphs, diagrams and tables.
The table below shows how the number of items fit within each NOS sub-strand, contextual strand, and science capability for test JS1.
The assessment focus in test JS2
In JS2 there is a more even spread of items across the capabilities; gather and interpret data, interpret representations and use evidence. Students are making inferences from the data, comparing representations and deciding which explanations are backed up with evidence.
The table below shows the number of items that fit within each NOS sub-strand, contextual strand, and science capability for test JS2.
The assessment focus in test JS3
In JS3 interpreting representations is the main focus but now the representations are more complex. Students are comparing and interpreting the strengths of different representations, interpreting scientific representations and using evidence from representations to make and construct causal explanations.
The table below shows the number of items that fit within each NOS sub-strand, contextual strand, and science capability for test JS3.
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