Curriculum context

The Science learning area assessments were administered in Term 3 of 2024.  In 2024, the New Zealand Curriculum (2007) remained in place for science. As such, it provided the basis for the Curriculum Insights science learning area study.

About the assessment

The science study comprised four key components, designed to build a comprehensive picture of students’ science understanding and experiences.

1. All students completed independent assessment tasks focused on understanding, investigating, and communicating in science. These tasks were set in contexts drawn from the four science contextual strands and incorporated the science capabilities. They included a range of question types, such as multiple-choice, short-answer, and extended written responses.
   Year 3 students completed the multiple-choice tasks with audio support to reduce literacy barriers.
2. A sub-sample of students in each school participated in one-to-one interviews with Kaiako Rangahau (Teacher Researchers). These interviews gave students the chance to explain their science thinking and show their capabilities.
3. Some students also participated in rōpū iti (small group discussions), which explored their classroom experiences and engagement with science at school.
4. Finally, online questionnaires were completed by students, teachers, and school leaders. These gathered information about science learning opportunities, teacher strengths and attitudes, and areas where additional support might be needed.

Explore the data window with detailed results by year level.

More information is available on the website of the Curriculum Insights and Progress Study.