How to prepare for the English NAPLAN in year 9

Understanding the Year 9 NAPLAN English Exam Structure

The Year 9 NAPLAN English exam tests students in three major areas, including Reading, Writing and Language Conventions, to gauge the national average of students’ performance.  

1. Reading 

When it comes to the ‘Reading’ section of the exam, the student’s ability to read and comprehend texts of varying difficulty is assessed. The texts given, may range from prose, to articles, to poems and the questions accompanying them, address various areas such as the message of the text, the central idea or the overall tone of the extract. 

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2. Writing 

With regards to the ‘Writing’ component of the Year 9 NAPLAN exam, students are called upon to answer questions imaginatively, persuasively or informatively, to showcase their talent and ability to both craft masterful sophisticated texts and to correctly engage with stimuli. As of 2008, informative writing has not been tested in Year 9 NAPLAN exams. 

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3. Language Conventions 

Regarding the section of ‘Language Conventions’, each student will be assessed based on their ability to use correct grammar, spelling and punctuation. Common questions include identifying misspelt words in writing prompts, correcting spelling mistakes, choosing the correct punctuation mark that has been omitted, as well as choosing the correct tense or function of a word in a context.  

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How to Study for the English NAPLAN Year 9

1. Regular Reading Habits:

Students should establish a daily reading habit. Diverse reading materials, including fiction, non-fiction, newspapers, and online articles, expose Year 9 students to different writing styles and broaden their vocabulary. This habit enhances both reading comprehension and critical thinking skills. Students can borrow books from their school library that they find compelling and interesting. However, they should not limit themselves to reading fiction only!

2. Vocabulary Building:

Students can create their own ‘vocabulary journal’ where they can jot down unfamiliar words encountered during their reading. This can be followed by a quick explanation of what the word means, or a synonym. Understanding the context and practising the usage of these words in sentences will significantly boost language skills and adequately prepare Year 9 students for language convention activities. 

Grammar and Spelling Practice:

Year 9s can utilise online resources, workbooks, and practice tests to reinforce grammar rules and improve spelling. Consistent practice in identifying and correcting grammatical errors contributes to enhanced language conventions. This can be easily achieved by practising with past NAPLAN papers. 

Essay Writing Practice:

To develop persuasive, imaginative and informative writing skills, students can practise regular essay writing. By focusing on constructing well-organised essays, articles and short stories with clear ideas and correct grammar and syntax, students can master their preparation for the writing section. As parents, you should also encourage your child to review and edit their work for coherence and fluency.

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Sample Timeline for Year 9 NAPLAN English Preparation

6 Months Before the Exam:

• Start with a diagnostic test to identify strengths and weaknesses.
• If you feel like you need additional support, reach out to a parent, teacher or tutor.
• Establish a reading routine, incorporating a mix of genres and text types.
• Begin building a vocabulary journal and practice using new words in sentences.

3 Months Before the Exam:

• Introduce grammar and spelling exercises, making sure to identify common errors and correct them.
• Incorporate practice tests to simulate exam conditions and improve time management.
• Initiate essay writing practice with a focus on structure and argument development.

1 Month Before the Exam:

• Review and refine essay writing skills, paying attention to persuasive techniques.
• Conduct a comprehensive review of language conventions, focusing on identified weaknesses.
• Take additional practice tests to build confidence and identify areas for final improvement.

1 Week Before the Exam:

• Focus on relaxation techniques to manage stress and anxiety.
• Review key strategies for each test component.
• Ensure all study materials and resources are organised and readily accessible.

The Day of the Exam: 

• Ensure that you have all your exam materials with you. 
• Eat a hearty breakfast to make sure that your brain is functioning at full capacity. 
• Drink lots of water and don’t forget to bring a clear water bottle along. 
• Breathe - You have prepared for this exam and are ready to succeed! 

How do I prepare my child for NAPLAN? 

As a parent, the best way to prepare your child for their Year 9 NAPLAN exam is to: 

• Ensure they have created a manageable and effective time table to stay on track 
• Provide them with adequate learning materials such as past papers
• If needed, inquire about tutoring to help your child reach their maximum potential
• Help your child emotionally by looking into ways of reducing stress 
• Avoid overpressuring your child and instead, help them only when they ask for it 

Example Questions for NAPLAN English (Year 9):

Reading Comprehension (Year 9):

Read the passage and answer the question:

"In what way does the author use symbolism to convey the theme in the last paragraph of the text?"

You can also find some past exams and answers at the Acara website. 

What is a good NAPLAN score for Year 9? 

‍When it comes to understanding NAPLAN results, it’s important to note that they are measured on scales comparing the performance of students against the national standard. Year 9 reports show bands ranging from 5-10. Currently, the national minimum standard for Year 9 is band 6. Your child’s result will show whether they have ranked above or below the national average. To pass in Year 9, students will have to achieve a band 8 or higher in all areas tested. 

What happens if you fail NAPLAN in Year 9? 

The Year 9 NAPLAN, is a prerequisite for students’ graduation in Year 12. If a student fails their NAPLAN exams in Year 9, they will have to sit the Online Literacy and Numeracy Assessment exams which take place every six months (in March and September). Students are able to re-sit these exams until they pass. 

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In the event that they don’t pass these examinations by the end of Year 12, there’s a possibility that they will need to repeat some years of high school. 

NAPLAN exams aim to give parents and schools a comprehensive view of the child’s abilities when measured against national levels. As students progress through their educational journey, the skills developed during NAPLAN preparation will serve them well in various academic and professional endeavours! While independent study for NAPLAN is invaluable, professional tutoring can provide personalised guidance and support. Tutors can identify specific areas for improvement, offer targeted strategies, and provide additional resources. A tutoring partnership can empower students to approach the NAPLAN English test with confidence, setting a solid foundation for future academic success. ‍

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Want to discuss the next step? Reach out to Concept at https://www.concepteducation.com.au/enquire or email us at coordinator@concepteducation.com.au - we're always happy to help!

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