In this section
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Gaelic (Learners) Assignment (National 4) Added Value Unit — Sabhal Mòr Ostaig
Benefits of using this approach
The use of previously verified materials gave us the assurance we were using assessment approaches at the right standard for assessment. The assessment grew naturally out of learning and teaching, and was culturally relevant to the target language of Gaelic.
Benefits for candidates
Candidates were able to draw relevant ideas and content from the text easily, allowing them to also go beyond basic content and phrases in their presentation for assessment standard 1.2. They could then use their ideas and content in developing their oral responses for the questions for assessment standard 1.3, in a natural and relevant fashion.
The language learned allows candidates to deal with the other contexts, as well as assisting in progression to National 5.
Specific benefits for teaching staff
Basing the assessment on language which flows naturally from the candidates’ own experiences and requirements, allows for teaching of language in a natural and realistic manner. Teachers or lecturers may introduce much of the language in a way which feeds into the candidates’ learning.
This can be less disruptive in teaching terms in other less familiar context areas, and also allow for multi-level teaching. Teachers and lecturers also have the impression that formative assessment is not prolonged, and serves its purpose to feed into candidates’ learning.
Note: the assessment tasks referred to in this case study can be found in the centre-produced prior verified materials section of SQA’s secure website ((PV290) via your SQA co-ordinator.
