The purpose of this website is to inform parents of the NCEA Literacy Co-Requisite: what it is, when it is, and how it works. This website provides FAQs, past papers, and resources to support students as they prepare for these examinations.
For specific information about the reading test, click here.
For specific information about the writing test, click here.
For specific information about the numeracy test, click here
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
What are the Literacy and Numeracy Co-Requisite tests?
The Literacy and Numeracy Co-Requisite tests are three examinations students are required to sit to attain a Literacy qualification and a Numeracy qualification. There is a test for reading, a test for writing, and a test for numeracy. Students complete these tests online during a specified time in the school year. Students need to pass both of the reading and writing tests to attain their Literacy qualification, and the numeracy test to attain their Numeracy qualification.
Why do the Literacy and Numeracy tests matter?
Functional literacy, the ability to write and read at a competent level, is necessary to participate properly in our society. "Indeed, poor literacy is strongly correlated with poor life outcomes" (Research Ed Guide to Literacy). Thus, achieving these tests gives the assurance that a student has the foundational skills to take part and contribute in everyday life, and also provides a base for future study.
Additionally, as a co-requisite qualification, a student can not attain an NCEA Level 1, 2, or 3 qualification without having achieved the tests.
What do students have to do?
In the Reading Test students will answer multiple-choice questions relating to a range of written texts of different types and varying lengths, aligned to Level 4 and 5 of the NZC.
The texts will relate to a range of experiences relevant to everyday life, such as employment opportunities, health and safety situations, media coverage, sports events, school or community events, the environment, and important individuals.
The Writing Test asks students to write two pieces of writing (150-350 words) in response to writing prompts. The two pieces will be different text types, and one will be in a formal tone.
Text types may include (but are not limited to): letters, reports, articles, blog posts, profiles, descriptions, explanations, and opinions.
Ākonga will also answer some multiple-choice questions relating to written language conventions such as spelling, sentence construction, and punctuation.
The Numeracy Test requires students to answer short answer questions, multiple choice questions, while also asking for written explanations for problems. Despite being about numbers, the test has a large reading requirement with many word problems included.
Each test will take about an hour, but there are no time limits to the assessment.
When are the tests?
In 2026, the tests will be available for us at St Patrick's Silverstream
May 18-22 (Week 5 of Term 2)
Year 11, 12 and 13 students that still require Literacy and Numeracy will be offered the opportunity to sit required tests.
All Year 10 students will be entered in the Reading, Writing, and Numeracy tests during this window.
Sept 7-18 (Week 8 and 9 of Term 3)
All year 10, 11, 12, and 13 students that still require Literacy or Numeracy Credits will be offered opportunities during this time.
How can I support my child at home?
What type of Device does my child need?
All students completing the test in the Hall will need an appropriate device charged and able to sit the test. If any of this is a problem, please contact Mr Houghton houghtonm@stream.school.nz, or Mr Hicks hicksp@stream.school.nz ASAP. To ensure that your device is appropriate please follow this link using the device that you want to use in the test.
Students should have set up an account on NZQA using their school username, and portal passwords. This will be done during Tutor Time as soon as the NSN cards are sent to schools to share with students.
What happens if my child does not pass the tests?
Students can resit the tests during future assessment windows, and can continue to resit the tests until they achieve. Up until 2027 students are also able to pick up their Literacy qualifications through a small number of NCEA standards at Level 1. Your child's English, and Mathematics teachers will continue to provide feedback to lift your child's literacy skills.
What happens if my child needs special assessment conditions?
If your child qualifies for qualified special assessment conditions (SAC) these will be accommodated. If you have any questions please contact Mr Watterson - watterson@stream.school.nz
For the Numeracy, and Writing test, students are able to use 'Polly' an system within the test which reads the problems aloud to students. This removes the need for a reader/writer.
literacy and numeracy in ncea a guide for students and whānau 2024-2025 (005)_0.pdf