Primary Maths Ability Assessment

Our Mathematical Ability Assessment was written in response to finding written assessments lacking in terms of finding out about children’s methods, reasoning and what they relied upon. We found that there was no better way to target gaps than through a verbal test where children feel more at ease.

The assessment is mostly conducted verbally (with some element of recording) and therefore allows practitioners to ask questions, observe thinking and get a fuller picture of a child’s mathematical ability.

It is divided into 7 main strands (Counting, ID & Understanding of Number, Language, Place Value, Algebra, Fractions, Decimals & Percentages and Calculation, Problem Solving & Reasoning) and allows you to very quickly establish at which level a child is operating in each one. It encourages note taking as you listen to and observe children’s working out. It can be used throughout the primary age range and covers objectives right from F2 to Y6.

It’s been tried and tested over the past 4 years in a wide range of settings and has been praised for its ease of use and how quickly it reveals what needs to be addressed.

‘We were amazed at how effectively and quickly it identified gaps. It really demonstrates how important it is to consider each strand of maths separately rather than lump it together into one level. We know where to start now!’ Maths Leader, Trial School

When used with our Multi Strand Challenges (available separately) it can form part of a well structured intervention programme and cuts down significantly on planning time. It’s proved invaluable for the teaching assistants who’ve trialed it.

Included in the download is the test itself, handbook, answer booklet and a lesson plan format for use in an intervention setting.