“The Levels”

An Explanation
On many samples, and within the actual student reports, you will notice a “level
number”; e.g. “3”, “2b” or “4a”. As parents you need to know what these mean
and how they relate to your child’s progress.

These level numbers represent curriculum levels. Level 4 on a science sample

for instance would indicate achievement at science curriculum level 4. Each
level matches particular years of schooling.

Level 1 = years 1-2

Level 2 = years 3-4
Level 3 = years 5-6
Level 4 = years 7-8
Level 5 = years 9-10 (and so on)

It’s vital to keep in mind however that each child is on a “continuum of

development” rather than in a “pigeon hole”. The diagram below demonstrates
how this continuum works. It’s also important to realise that children may be at
different parts of the continuum even within a particular subject. For example; in
maths, they may be working at level 4 for geometry, but still at level 3 for number.

All children need to work at the level of development where they are at. This will
mean children may sometimes be given work at a higher or lower level than their
chronological age would suggest. There are also times where due to lack of
effort, a child may complete work that is below their year level, not because of
ability but attitude.