3 FREE tools any parent needs for the new Queensland ATAR system
2019 is the first year group in Queensland that has students undergoing the new ATAR system. With it, also comes a load of stress and uncertainty of how things now function. Teachers, parents and students alike are unaware of how the changes will impact everybody until years have already passed.
With that somewhat grim summary aside, we have decided to help point people in the right direction. So read on to get a better idea of ATAR and how you can help your kid perform as well as they can in this new system.
*All links will be provided
Tool #1: QCAA Senior subject list
The QCAA (Queensland Curriculum Assessment Authority) has provided a useful breakdown of every ATAR available subject that is completely free to the public to download.
With these guides, you will be able to see which topic students will be studying and when. These unit breakdowns also contain the rationale of each topic which students can be aware of when answering questions to help the teacher find marks in their work.
Tool #2: Glossary of Cognitive Verbs
No, that was not a typo. This list is a breakdown of the exact meaning of each verb used in assignment task sheets for students. For instance, the difference between ‘Explore’ and ‘Evaluate’ mean very different things in ATAR task sheets.
Over the past few years, Queensland teachers have been taught to use these words to provide consistency for assignment task sheets. If a student uses this list to check the words used in a task sheet, they will have a much clearer understanding of where to allocate their time and effort.
Please be aware that Queensland teachers are using this exact glossary so it’s worth printing out.
Tool #3: Khan Academy
This is honestly just a staple not enough people know about. Funded by Bill Gates, Khan Academy is an online video resource that breaks down most content covered in school. While it isn’t perfectly 1:1 with the Australian curriculum, any interested student can definitely consolidate class knowledge with these easy to watch videos.
Even if you yourself want to understand a little more of what your child might be learning at school, this is definitely a great tool to start with.
