The Selective High School Placement Test is a unique assessment designed for students seeking entry to Year 7 in NSW selective high schools. The test has been meticulously designed to allow students to demonstrate their abilities across a range of areas, including reading, mathematical reasoning, thinking skills, and writing. In 2023 and 2024, the placement test is in a paper-based format.

Exam Format

The test consists of four sections:

1. Reading Test: The reading test consists of 30 multiple-choice questions and is designed to assess a range of reading skills. Students have 40 minutes to complete this section.
2. Mathematical Reasoning Test: This section includes 35 multiple-choice questions that assess a student's ability to apply mathematical understanding and knowledge to problems. Calculators are not used in the mathematical reasoning test, and students have 40 minutes to complete it.
3. Thinking Skills Test: The thinking skills test contains 40 multiple-choice questions that aim to assess a student's ability in critical thinking and problem-solving. No previous knowledge is required for this test. It also has a time limit of 40 minutes.
4. Writing Test: The writing test involves an open-ended response based on a given topic. Students have 30 minutes to complete the test, and it assesses creativity, writing effectiveness for a purpose and audience, grammar, punctuation, spelling, and vocabulary【19†source】.

All answers are marked with pencils, and multiple-choice tests are marked by computer.

The weightage of each section in the total score is as follows:

• Reading: 25%
• Mathematical Reasoning: 25%
• Thinking Skills: 35%
• Writing: 15%.

How to Prepare for the Exam

Preparing for the Selective High School Placement Test involves understanding the test format, the types of questions, and familiarizing oneself with the answer sheet. Practice test questions and answer sheets are provided to help students become familiar with the test and to practice answering quickly. However, the Department of Education does not recommend any specific coaching for the test, and results of practice tests do not reflect how a student will score in their Selective High School Placement Test. The selection committee will not consider scores on any type of practice tests.

What to Expect on Test Day

The test is held only in NSW on a designated test date. For example, the 2024 entry test was held on 4 May 2023. The test starts at 9 am and finishes at approximately 1:30 pm, with the finish time varying according to the size of the test centre. Applicants are advised of test arrangements two weeks prior to the test.

Parents and carers are responsible for ensuring their child's safe travel to the test centre and back home. If a child is unable to sit the test on the day or if their performance is hindered by illness or other issues, parents can submit a request for consideration of illness/misadventure.

Key Takeaways for Students

1. Familiarize yourself with the test format, types of questions, and the answer sheet.
2. Practice answering quickly and efficiently.
3. Ensure you're well-rested and prepared on test day.
4. Remember, this test is about demonstrating your skills and abilities; it's not just about rote learning.
5. Stay calm and do your best!

The Selective High School Placement Test is a significant step in your educational journey, but remember, it's just one part of your overall academic profile. Keep learning, stay curious, and good luck!

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