SQA response to Access Network questions
SQA reply to issues raised during the Jan 05 Access Network
1. Who is taking over from Margaret Miller?
Sandy Riddell as of 31 January 2004
2. With regard to assessment arrangements for internally assessed units - it would appear that the main unit which requires discussion with SQA for readers/scribes etc is Access 3 English. Is this the only one?
In most cases, it is not necessary to contact SQA for SAA for internally assessed units, provided that the outcomes/pcs are not compromised. EG Assessment of knowledge of home economics by written communication - a scribe may be used. Assessment of the skill of written communication - a scribe cannot be used without discussion with SQA. If in doubt, discuss concerns with SQA. Further, as many candidates at this level have difficulty in writing it is acceptable for someone to record their answers on checklists etc for evidence requirements. Candidates may also use their normal mode of communication eg signing or augmentive equipment. The exceptions to this are where the skills being assessed are writing or speaking (usually in units where core skills are embedded) and an alternative interpretation of the outcome may be required.
3. Access subjects - which ones are under review?
Access 3 subjects are under NQ Review with higher level courses in their subject. This information is on SQA's website. Access 2 Music is being evaluated at present and may be reviewed.
4. Moderation for Access units - seems to be missed out of the loop. Schools would like to be moderated - in special schools it is often one teacher offering the course and they appreciate the support and advice of an External Moderator.
I have informed Jean Allan, Head of Moderation
5. Several centres have successfully submitted assessment material for prior moderation. It would be extremely useful if SQA circulated a list of such material.
Again - I will ask Jean Allan about this. Please also note that SQA have a Support Network database which centres can sign up to. They can then interrogate the database to see which centres are offering specific provision and are willing to share materials and expertise.
6. There are concerns about the link between Access 2 and Access 3 and it is difficult for candidates to progress upwards. For example in Science and Home Economics.
I have informed colleagues in SQA of these issues.
7. Is it possible for SQA to clarify the levels of support allowed for Access 1 candidates? A guidance document was circulated regarding Home Economics - other subjects would benefit from the same guidance.
Levels of support are defined in the unit specifications for the Supported units at Access 1. At present, there are only 6 Healthy Basic Cooking units at this level. There are more planned - subject to resources.
Veronica Kirk
Customer Account Manager for Fife and Midlothian
01334 650277
07748 181326
1. Who is taking over from Margaret Miller?
Sandy Riddell as of 31 January 2004
2. With regard to assessment arrangements for internally assessed units - it would appear that the main unit which requires discussion with SQA for readers/scribes etc is Access 3 English. Is this the only one?
In most cases, it is not necessary to contact SQA for SAA for internally assessed units, provided that the outcomes/pcs are not compromised. EG Assessment of knowledge of home economics by written communication - a scribe may be used. Assessment of the skill of written communication - a scribe cannot be used without discussion with SQA. If in doubt, discuss concerns with SQA. Further, as many candidates at this level have difficulty in writing it is acceptable for someone to record their answers on checklists etc for evidence requirements. Candidates may also use their normal mode of communication eg signing or augmentive equipment. The exceptions to this are where the skills being assessed are writing or speaking (usually in units where core skills are embedded) and an alternative interpretation of the outcome may be required.
3. Access subjects - which ones are under review?
Access 3 subjects are under NQ Review with higher level courses in their subject. This information is on SQA's website. Access 2 Music is being evaluated at present and may be reviewed.
4. Moderation for Access units - seems to be missed out of the loop. Schools would like to be moderated - in special schools it is often one teacher offering the course and they appreciate the support and advice of an External Moderator.
I have informed Jean Allan, Head of Moderation
5. Several centres have successfully submitted assessment material for prior moderation. It would be extremely useful if SQA circulated a list of such material.
Again - I will ask Jean Allan about this. Please also note that SQA have a Support Network database which centres can sign up to. They can then interrogate the database to see which centres are offering specific provision and are willing to share materials and expertise.
6. There are concerns about the link between Access 2 and Access 3 and it is difficult for candidates to progress upwards. For example in Science and Home Economics.
I have informed colleagues in SQA of these issues.
7. Is it possible for SQA to clarify the levels of support allowed for Access 1 candidates? A guidance document was circulated regarding Home Economics - other subjects would benefit from the same guidance.
Levels of support are defined in the unit specifications for the Supported units at Access 1. At present, there are only 6 Healthy Basic Cooking units at this level. There are more planned - subject to resources.
Veronica Kirk
Customer Account Manager for Fife and Midlothian
01334 650277
07748 181326
posted by David Noble at Monday, February 21, 2005
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