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The literacy Common Assessment tasks (CAAs) comprise two assessments, Reading and Writing. You do not need to pass both at the same time. When you have passed one, you do not need to sit it again. The materials on this page are designed to help you make sure you are as ready as possible. There will also be in-person tutorials after school. Choose the method of study that works best for you.
There is a lot of information on this page. Work through slowly. If you get stuck, or need help, email Ms Conde at condes@rutherford.school.nz
What are the CAAs like?
Literacy Reading information
The links to the left and right tell you about Literacy Reading and Literacy Writing. Take some time to scroll through each link. The files called 'assessment paper' are actual past tests. Seeing what they look like will help prepare you.
Literacy Writing informatoin
Active Practice - writing
Writing CAA - practice work.docxIf you have done an assessment before, there is feedback in your account. Look closely at the feedback and know what you need to focus on most. This document shows you how to find the feedback and links to NZQA exemplars.
In the Writing CAA you will be asked to write two texts, one that is around 150 words and that is around 250 words. The most common text types so far have been emails, articles and responses.
Practice is key to success.
Complete past paper practice tasks.
Complete practice tasks in the powerpoint to the left.
Share your practice work with Ms Conde condes@rutherford.school.nz to get feedback on your work.
Writing CAA examples with criteria.docxNot Achieved examples of writing responses. Read the feedback on content, structure, language and accuracy and then the example. Rewrite the example and share it with your teacher for feedback.
Achieved examples.docxAchieved examples.
A lack of strategy is the main reason why students don't achieve the Writing CAA.
Create a detailed plan so when you write, you can focus on the quality of your writing. There are tips in the instructions. Use them.
Make sure you have an opening, middle (development of ideas) and closing appropriate for the type of text (email, article, response, letter).
Write in paragraphs.
Proofread for sentence structure, capital letters and punctuation.
Use all the time you have.
Information about the Polly read - aloud function in the Writing CAA.
The two most common text types so far are emails and letters. Practice writing both of these.
The local council has removed many of its rubbish bins. Write an email to the council letting them know if you agree or disagree with this decision.
Write an email of thanks to a coach, teacher or person in your local community. Include what they did that you are thankful for and the impact it had on you.
Get feedback on your writing.
Active Practice - Reading
In the Reading CAA, you will be asked to read a range of texts (up to seven) and answer multiple choice questions. You will achieve this assessment if you show that you can:
Read to make sense of the text. (Show that you understand what it means)
Read critically. (Show that you can identify the purpose of the text, who the audience is and what message the writer might be communicating)
Read for different purposes. (Show that you can locate information across more than one text, evaluate the effectiveness of the text and use appropriate strategies for reading)
Like the Writing assessment, strategy is key:
Read the questions.
Read the text slowly and carefully.
When you locate the part of the text that answers the question, read the question again. Eliminate answers that are incorrect.
Review the text and your answers.
Use all of your time. Many students who did not achieve this assessment said it was "easy."
Past papers can be found inside your NZQA login. Log in, check the left hand menu bar and look for the link to past papers. If you get stuck, check into B4 (or email condes@rutherford.school.nz) for help.
Below is the powerpoint presentation you were shown in class. Use it as a review tool.
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