Cambridge Lower Secondary Programme

The Cambridge Lower Secondary Programme provides a testing structure that measures student, class and school performance.

Schools can use the results of the tests to:

• assess students' progress, strengths and weaknesses
• inform further teaching and support learning
• report to parents.

All tests in the Lower Secondary Programme are standardised, providing an international benchmark of student achievement. The progression tests provide valid external assessments of knowledge and skills in English, Maths and Science. Progression tests are marked by the teacher. Cambridge provides full mark schemes and guidance.

University of Cambridge Checkpoint Overview

This is an internationally recognised assessment system for 11-14 year olds. Cambridge Checkpoint tests are available in English, Mathematics and Science. Checkpoint is not a formal qualification with a certificate, although a Statement of Achievement is produced.

Cambridge Checkpoint Tests:

• Are valued and accepted throughout the world for their high standards of assessment
• Are delivered worldwide through a network of schools, colleges and training providers
• Provide a good indication of Cambridge IGCSE results
• Were created with an international audience in mind so they are suitable for students of all cultural and language backgrounds
• Provide teachers with detailed information about the strengths and weaknesses of their pupils in order to focus on their teaching
• Can be taken at a convenient time so as not to disrupt lessons.

Who can benefit from Checkpoint tests?

Cambridge Checkpoint for students around 14 years of age is ideal for those beginning courses leading to Cambridge IGCSE examinations in English, Mathematics and Science. They also provide a benchmark for students and teachers with regards to a student's overall ability.

What are Checkpoint tests like?

There are two papers in each subject, each approximately one hour in length. They are excellent preparation tests for Cambridge IGCSE examinations, by allowing students to experience an internal exam.

All the questions have been tested by Cambridge to ensure they are suitable for 14 year olds and provide useful information and feedback. Marks are carefully analysed with a report produced on students' work. This process takes about 4 weeks.

Report information

Each student will receive a Statement of Achievement and a report that provides more detail about their individual performance. Results are given as Checkpoint scores between 0.0 (weakest) and 6.0 (strongest). The average score is between 3.0 and 4.0. The report gives a score for the subject as a whole and for the main topics. Teachers can then identify any important strengths or weaknesses.

Topics covered by Checkpoint Tests

English

Mathematics

Science