[eal-bilingual] Fw: NCT translation query

I attended the QCA's single equality dissemination session representlng 
NATE a few weeks ago and asked whether arrangements for pupils new to 
English who could answer science and maths questions in their first 
language were likely to be addressed centrally. I attach, for 
information, the NAA response which indicates that no changes are 
planned at the moment.  I have impressed on them that these pupils are 
on the increase.

Stuart
----Original Message----
From: Katie.Ward at naa.org.uk
Date: Jan 17, 2008 12:01 
To: 
Cc: "Loutfi, Sarah", "Copland, Carol"
Subj: NCT translation query

st1\:*{behavior:url(#default#ieooui) }

Dear Stuart

I am writing in response to
a query you made recently via Sarah Loutfi regarding the provision of
translated maths and science papers in the national curriculum tests.

The key stage 2 and key
stage 3 Assessment and Reporting Arrangements www.qca.org.uk/eara/ 
outline the
different options available for pupils with English as an additional 
language
(section 12.11). There are a variety of options available to schools 
depending
on the particular needs of the pupil concerned and what their normal 
classroom
arrangements are. Such arrangements may include the provision of 10% 
additional
time in the mathematics and science tests, the use of either an oral 
translator
where a pupil can write their answers in English or in their first 
language, or
a written translation of the tests paper where pupils may answer in 
their first
language and then have a transcript of their answers translated by the
translator on their behalf. Where oral or written translations are 
required,
schools may also apply for early opening in order to complete any 
translations
required. 

Currently the National
Assessment Agency does not have arrangements for providing 
translations of the
mathematics and science papers. This is partly due the need for each 
pupil to
be assessed differently and according to their needs and current 
classroom
practice at the time of taking the tests; it is also due to the number 
of
languages that would require translations and the lack of resources 
available
to ensure inclusivity to all pupils. 

Schools currently have the
responsibility of providing translators for pupils assessed as 
requiring this
arrangement. This can benefit the pupils in the case of oral 
translation, as
parents/teachers may be able to recommend someone that pupil typically 
works
with. As the main contact with schools and local authorities within 
NAA, we aim
to share knowledge of translation services and encourage collaboration 
within
and across local authorities to assist where possible. 

I hope this has helped to answer your query.

Kind regards

Katie Ward
Test Administration Manager, NAA school support team

Collaborative Learning Project, 17 Barford Street, London N1 0QB
A network of teaching professionals developing and disseminating accessible talk-for-learning teaching materials in all subject areas and for all ages.
Telephone: 0044 (0)207 226 8885
Website:http://www.collaborativelearning.org
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