Ks2 Sat Guided Reading Technique

The following is a subjective overview of the SATS KS2 Reading Comprehension paper. This is not a complete guide and does not provide any objective content. Further research may be available online.

- The test - The new SATS exam comprehension papers are one hour long. The expectation is the question booklet and the reading booklet are complete within the hour. Each question booklet and reading booklet are provided at the same time, unlike previous years. Each paper may have between 2-4 topics enclosed.

- The questions 1 - The difficulty level of the text and questions increase as you progress through the paper. The questions are split into multiple sections as there may be anything between 2-4 topics within the paper itself. Each questions must be answered by reading the appropriate corresponding pages (these pages are clearly marked in a circular box above the questions).

- The questions 2 - (this list is not exhaustive). There are many different types of questions and the mark scheme specifically looks for necessary word choices and ideas. 1 mark: Literal question offering multiple choice answer. 1 mark: Literal question requiring the location and copying of one appropriate idea from the text. 2 mark: Literal question requiring the location and copying of two different and appropriate ideas from the text. 2 mark: Literal question requiring a comparison of a single topic. 2 mark: Inference question requiring the correct understanding of an idea and the correct location and copying of an idea from the text. 2 mark: Inference question requiring two inference responses based on two ideas from the text. 3 mark: Requiring 3 separate ideas. The location and inclusion of direct quotation may be required for this question in various forms.

- Exam technique and general advice - Glance at questions before beginning to read the paper. Not down and demark important information on first read of paper. Sit in a correct seating position with good access to answer and reading booklet. Scan through for information quickly and do not try to read all of the text again when answering questions. Do not write down the first direct quotation you find as some questions are designed to test and trick.

- Important - The child should not answer a question unless they have identified and copied down the information from the text. The mark scheme supplied mostly looks for a combination of ideas and specific word choices. If the child has the correct idea but has not copied down the correct words from the text, more likely than not they will not receive a mark.