Waddington states, (2000)“It is a very useful and efficient screening device,” I agree with Waddington (1988) in that the ‘true value of this test lies in the diagnostic information which can be extracted for programming purposes. The test is not too long (30 minutes) and easy to mark, yet valid when it comes to assessing the literacy of the students. The Waddington tests have clear understood and guidelines for teachers giving the test.

It easy to follow and are not daunted by it nor do they find it threatening. Support students can do Test 1 in the second term and Test 2 in the fourth term. The tests begin very simply with basic picture/sound cues then gradually become more difficult and complex. A small ‘sample’ test section is provided to assist with explanation of the test tasks. The front page accommodates student, school and assessment details. Waddington Diagnostic Reading Test The Waddington is a clearly set out diagnostic test presented in an A4 size book within which are the photocopiable tests. Data collated can then be turned into graphs and further analysis made. You can have the name of the child, date of birth, age then spelling age according to the South Australian Spelling Test markers guide. I would advise teachers to collate data in an excel spreadsheet. The data collected from the South Australian Spelling test can be used when teacher’s design lessons, support programs, reporting as well as grouping students accordingly. You will be able to see the spelling ability of each student. The test will give you an age range from 6-15 years. It is a good idea to administer the test at the beginning, middle and end of the school year.

South Australian Spelling Test This test will give a spelling age of the children in your class. There are a number of literacy diagnostic tests that may be of use when you are starting to assess children needing literacy support.

South australian spelling test template