NAP sample assessments – general

The NAP sample assessments test students’ skills and understanding in science literacy, civics and citizenship, and information and communication technology (ICT) literacy. Only selected groups of students in Years 6 and 10 participate in these sample assessments, which are held on a rolling 3-yearly basis.

NAP sample assessments began in 2003 with science literacy (NAP–SL), followed by civics and citizenship (NAP–CC) in 2004, and information and communication technology literacy (NAP–ICTL) in 2005.

The NAP – science literacy assessment measures students’ ability to apply a broad range of conceptual understandings of science to make sense of the world and their understanding of natural phenomena. This assessment involves interpreting media reports about scientific issues, asking investigable questions, conducting investigations, collecting and interpreting data, and making decisions.

Students undertaking the NAP – ICT literacy assessment are tested on their ability to appropriately access, manage, integrate and evaluate information, develop new understandings and communicate with others in order to participate effectively in society. General ICT skills and knowledge are assessed, rather than the more technical skills and knowledge developed through specialist ICT courses. The NAP – ICT literacy tests are computer-based.

The NAP – civics and citizenship (NAP–CC) assessment tests students on their civic knowledge and understanding and the skills and values needed for active citizenship. The NAP–CC has been conducted as an online assessment since 2013. In this assessment, students are presented with stimulus information and answer a range of multiple-choice and short answer questions. Students answer the questions by drawing on the information provided and their own knowledge and understandings. Students also complete a short survey that collects information about their attitudes, beliefs and participation in civics and citizenship activities.