memo 044/12 senior secondary: queensland core skills (qcs) … · 23 july 2012 number: 044/12 years...

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23 July 2012 Number: 044/12

Years 10 – 12

Queensland Core Skills (QCS) Test: Directions for Administration 2012

Purpose To provide information to chief supervisors about the administration of the 2012 QCS Test.

Background To help ensure the security, fair administration and integrity of the QCS Test at all test centres, the QSA has documented the procedures that chief supervisors and other personnel must follow when administering the test. The procedures are outlined in the following documents:

• Queensland Core Skills (QCS) Test: Directions for Administration 2012

This handbook (often referred to as the “DFA”) details the directions for the administration of the test. All personnel involved in administering the test must follow the directions stated in this document unless told otherwise by the QSA.

• Instructions to students

This handout provides information to students about sitting the test. In previous years, it also included the Absentee application for exemption (OP-eligible student) form. This form will no longer be provided. If an OP-eligible student is absent from all or part of the test and wants to remain eligible for an OP, a teacher or guidance officer should help the student to complete an Application for exemption for unexpected absence, available from www.qsa.qld.edu.au/1102.html from 4 September 2012. The form must be faxed to (07) 3221 2930 with supporting documentation by 3 October 2012. Medical certificates should provide details of the medical condition (e.g. chicken pox) and not simply say "a medical condition". Do not put application forms or supporting documentation in the metal cases.

• Form QCS 10 Calculator declaration

This form must be signed by each student intending to sit the test to declare their understanding of the use of approved calculators during the test sessions. Memo 023/12 dated 21 March 2012 provided updated information to chief supervisors about what types of calculators students can use when sitting the test.

Attachments and web links • Queensland Core Skills (QCS) Test: Directions for Administration 2012 (one copy). Multiple copies

of the DFA will be included with the Group A support materials

• Instructions to students (multiple copies)

• Form QCS 10 Calculator declaration (two copies)

The Directions for Administration, the Instructions to students and the Form QCS 10 Calculator declaration are also available on the QSA website: www.qsa.qld.edu.au/2324.html.

http://www.qsa.qld.edu.au/1102.htmlhttp://www.qsa.qld.edu.au/2324.html

Queensland Core Skills (QCS) Test: Directions for Administration 2012 19 July 2012 | Page 2 of 2

What you need to do The chief supervisor must:

• thoroughly read the DFA and become familiar with all the directions for the administration of the test

• start planning for the administration of the test

• immediately distribute the Instructions to students to all Year 12 students intending to sit the test (see page 8 of the DFA)

• make sure the calculator that each student intends to use for the test meets the criteria for an approved calculator as stated on the Form QCS 10 Calculator declaration (see page 10 of the DFA)

• make sure that each student intending to sit the test signs the Form QCS 10 Calculator declaration by Friday 17 August. (This form must be returned to the QSA after the last test session).

Upcoming important dates Friday 10 August Closing date for the distribution of the Instructions to students to all

Year 12 students intending to sit the test

Friday 17 August Closing date for all Year 12 students intending to sit the test to sign the Form QCS 10 Calculator declaration

Tuesday 21 August Group A support materials delivered to test centres

Late August Group B test materials delivered to test centres

Monday 3 September (7:00 am to 12:30 pm)

Access the QCS Test administration database on the QSA secure website to print the Corrections instructions

Tuesday 4 September Administration of the Writing Task (WT) and Multiple Choice I (MC I) test session

Wednesday 5 September Administration of the Short Response (SR) and Multiple Choice II (MC II) test sessions

Friday 7 September Access the QCS Test administration database on the QSA secure website to finalise the record of attendance of the chief community representatives and community representatives

Mid-October Payments to chief community representatives and community representatives are credited to their nominated accounts

More information If you would like more information, please email the Assessment Operations Unit at [email protected], or phone (07) 3864 0394.

Jo-Anne Cooper Manager Assessment Operations Unit

Directions for Administration2012 Queensland Core Skills Test

Queensland Studies Authority154 Melbourne Street, South Brisbane PO Box 307 Spring Hill QLD 4004 AustraliaT +61 7 3864 0299F +61 7 3221 2553

www.qsa.qld.edu.au

Directions for Adm

inistration | 2012 Queensland Core S

kills Test

Directions for Administration — 2012 Queensland Core Skills Test© The State of Queensland (Queensland Studies Authority) 2012

Queensland Studies Authority154 Melbourne Street, South Brisbane PO Box 307 Spring Hill QLD 4004 AustraliaT +61 7 3864 0299F +61 7 3221 2553

www.qsa.qld.edu.au

ContentsIntroduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1Contacts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Definitions (specific to the QCS Test) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Rules for conducting the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3Key personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Chief supervisor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Chief community representatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Community representatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Supervisors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Timing of the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Location of test centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Candidates for the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Security of the test materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Access to the testpapers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Access to the test room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Leaving the test room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Student conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Student equipment and materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Duties of the chief supervisor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Before the days of the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Organising chief community representatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Receiving non-secure (Group A) support materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Receiving secure (Group B) materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Distributing Instructions to students handout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Checking and updating the attendance roll . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Preparing place cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Allocating place cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Preparing the test room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Arranging seating. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Checking student equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Arranging supervision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Arranging variations to test conditions for students who have been approved special provision . . . . . 11

Corrections instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

On the days of the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

During each test session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Admitting students to the test room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Private-entry candidates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Marking the attendance roll . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Regulating student conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Dealing with an alleged error in the test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Dealing with a disturbance to the administration of the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

At the end of each test session. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Packing of materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Summary of what to do with test materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Case collections after test sessions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

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After the last test session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Duties of chief community representatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19Before the days of the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Receiving the key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Receiving secure (Group B) materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19





Duties of community representatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23Before the days of the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23





Duties of supervisors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24Before the days of the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24



Supervising the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Replacing faulty testpapers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Dealing with alleged errors discovered in the test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Checking student equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Late arrival of students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Temporary absence of students during a test session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Withdrawing from the test session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Early departure of students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27



Administration of the Writing Task test session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29Packing the Writing Task response books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Administration of the Multiple Choice I andMultiple Choice II test sessions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37Packing the Multiple Choice response sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Administration of the Short Response test session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45Packing the Short Response testpapers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Sample materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52Security seals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Place card (with name printed) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Place card (blank) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Forms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Instructions to students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71

Administering special provision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73Seating out of order or separate supervision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

| Directions for Administration 2012 QCS Test

Restbreaks and extra time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Restbreaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Extra time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Test session instructions in writing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Special equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Special test materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Returning response materials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

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| Directions for Administration 2012 QCS Test

IntroductionThe Queensland Core Skills (QCS) Test is developed, published, administered, marked and reported on by the Queensland Studies Authority (QSA).

This test is one component of the Student Education Profile for Year 12 students, and has been administered across the state each year since its introduction in 1992.

The QCS Test is designed to test achievement in the common elements of the senior curriculum in Queensland, that is, the common curriculum elements (CCEs). It is not subject-specific, although certain assumptions are made about students command of Standard Australian English, mathematical language and mathematical operations.

The QSA sets and amends the rules for the test under its powers and functions listed in the Education (Queensland Studies Authority) Act 2002 and the associated Regulation.

It is important that the administration of this test be consistent and fair and that it be seen to be so.

The QSA is responsible to students, to authorities that use the rank order information and/or individual results, to parents and to the general public for maintaining the security of the test. The QSA must also ensure that students sit the test under comparable conditions at all test centres.

This handbook provides information to help ensure the security, fair administration and integrity of the test by: defining the parameters for test security making sure the test is administered under comparable conditions in each test centre making sure students are well supervised during the test avoiding any disturbances during the administration of the test.

Testpapers are referred to throughout this handbook by their acronyms: WT: Writing Task (Paper 1) MC I: Multiple Choice I (Paper 2) SR: Short Response (Paper 3) MC II: Multiple Choice II (Paper 4).

Contacts

For matters related to the Corrections instructions Assessment Operations Unit (07) 3864 0394

For matters related to the content of the test Manager, QCS Test (07) 3864 0270

For matters related to the conduct of students Manager, QCS Test (07) 3864 0270

For matters related to the administration of testpapers Team Leader (Senior) (07) 3864 0344

For matters related to the provision of materialsAssistant Assessment Operations Officer

(07) 3864 0448

For matters related to the delivery and collection of materials by the courier

Operations Assistant(courier service)

(07) 3635 4915

For all faxes to the QSA about the QCS Test Appropriate officer or section (07) 3864 0213

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Definitions (specific to the QCS Test) the test or the QCS Test is the Queensland Core Skills Test, which comprises four testpapers the QSA is the Queensland Studies Authority. Note: Throughout this document, we, our and us refer to

the QSA testpaper refers to the Writing Task (WT) testpaper, the Multiple Choice I (MC I) testbook, the Multiple Choice II

(MC II) testbook or the Short Response (SR) testbook, as appropriate test centre is a Queensland secondary school, or another place so approved by the QSA, where, in any given

year, there are students sitting any session of the test chief supervisor is the person responsible for the proper conduct of the test at an approved test centre.

This person is also responsible for the security of the test materials while the materials are at the test centre before, during and after the administration of the test

supervisor is a person (and could include the chief supervisor) who administers the test and supervises students in a test room

student, for the purposes of this document, is a person who is a candidate for the test test room is any room in a test centre so designated by the chief supervisor of that centre chief community representative is a person whom the QSA appoints to observe and report on the conduct of

the test at the test centre. Two chief community representatives are appointed to each test centre community representative is a person whom the QSA appoints to observe the conduct of the test at an

approved test centre. Throughout this document, you and your refer to the chief supervisor, supervisor, chief community representative and community representative, as appropriate

cartons refers to the cardboard cartons containing the test support materials (Group A materials) cases refers to the colour-coded metal security cases containing the testpapers (Group B materials) key is issued to each chief community representative of a test centre to lock and unlock the cases for that

particular test centre student response refers to a completed response book, response sheet or testpaper as appropriate Senior Data Capture System (SDCS) is the computer-based system that the QSA uses to collect data on each

Year 11 and Year 12 student.

| DFA 2012 QCS Test Introduction

Rules for conducting the test

Key personnel

Chief supervisorThe chief supervisor is responsible for the conduct of the test at an approved test centre, and for the security of the test materials while the materials are at the approved test centre before, during and after the administration of the test.

The chief supervisor is the principal of a school that is a test centre. However, the principal may delegate the chief supervisors responsibilities to another member of the permanent teaching staff.

Chief community representativesThe QSA appoints two chief community representatives to each test centre to: keep custody of the key for the cases make sure that the secure test materials are received at the test centre in accordance with instructions given by

the QSA unlock and lock all cases assist with the checking of all secure materials be independent observers and report to the QSA on the administration of the test ensure accountability supervise community representatives during the administration of the test complete forms.

Community representativesThe QSA appoints community representative/s to each test centre with more than 150 students sitting the test to: observe the administration of the test report to a chief community representative any concerns about the administration of the test ensure accountability.

Community representatives work under the supervision of the chief community representatives.

SupervisorsThe chief supervisor selects supervisors from the teaching staff of the school that is a test centre to: administer the test supervise students during test sessions.


4

Timing of the testThe test is conducted on the Tuesday and Wednesday of the third-last week of school in Term 3 before the start of the September school holidays, as approved by the Department of Education and Training.

Therefore, the dates for the test this year are Tuesday 4 September and Wednesday 5 September.

Each test session must start no earlier and no later than the times shown below.

Within these times, the chief supervisor decides and sets the actual starting time for each test session to suit local circumstances.

Mornings

Afternoons

Location of test centreThe QSA expects that each test centre will be a Queensland secondary school with students enrolled in Year 12.

If the test room is not part of a secondary school that has been designated as a test centre, approval to vary the location of the test room for this year must be sought well in advance of the test. Complete the Application to vary the location of a test centre form and fax to the QSA as soon as possible. This form is available on our website.

Candidates for the testAll Year 12 students who are eligible for an Overall Position (OP) by virtue of their subject choice must sit the test. In addition, Year 12 students who are not eligible for an OP may choose to sit the test.

People who have completed Year 12 previously, or who are at least 18 years of age in the year in which the test is taken, may apply to the QSA to sit the test at an approved test centre. On approval of their applications, they become private-entry candidates.

Security of the test materials

Access to the testpapersOnly the chief supervisor, supervisors, chief community representatives and community representatives are to have access to testpapers before and after the test sessions.

Nobody is to read or work a testpaper before a test session begins. Only students are to read or work testpapers during the test sessions.

During the time of the administration of the test, the chief supervisor and supervisors are to have access to the testpapers only to check whether a student has a faulty testpaper that is, a testpaper where a paper or page is incomplete or where the print is illegible. A supervisor is to replace such a testpaper if necessary.

Day 1 Writing Task (WT)Perusal time: 10 minutesWorking time: 2 hours Begin the perusal time no

earlier than 8:50 am and no later than 9:20 am.Day 2 Short Response (SR)

Perusal time: 10 minutesWorking time: 2 hours

Day 1 Multiple Choice I (MC I)Perusal time: 10 minutesWorking time: 1 hour 30 minutes Begin the perusal time no

earlier than 12:30 pm and no later than 1:00 pm.Day 2 Multiple Choice II (MC II)

Perusal time: 10 minutesWorking time: 1 hour 30 minutes

| DFA 2012 QCS Test Rules for conducting the test

To maintain security of the test, the chief supervisor is to: store all cases containing the testpapers in a secure place until the time to prepare for each test session open the plastic bags containing the testpapers in the test room only when ready to distribute the papers and

not before count the number of testpapers taken from each bag, and check that this number is the same as the number of

testpapers shown on the label as being enclosed in the bag. If there is a discrepancy, the chief supervisor is to make sure that a record is provided on the Form QCS 2 Report from the chief supervisor (see pages 58 and 59)

check that the number of student responses collected at the end of each test session is the same as the number of students present for the session. This check must occur in the presence of at least one chief community representative

pack the student responses immediately after each test session, and then store them in a secure place until they are collected by the courier service.

Access to the test roomOnly the chief supervisor, supervisors, chief community representatives and community representatives or other authorised persons may enter, or remain in, a test room during the 45 minutes immediately before or after a test session.

Only the chief supervisor, supervisors, chief community representatives, community representatives, other authorised persons and students may enter or remain in a test room during a test session. It is inappropriate to admit other persons (e.g. media representatives), as their presence is likely to disrupt students.

A student must not enter a test room before a supervisor has given permission to enter.

A student must not enter a test room after the test session has started, except with permission from the chief supervisor or the supervisor in charge of the test in that room (see page 27). Such late entry must be no more than 40 minutes after the start of perusal time, except in special circumstances and after an explanation that satisfies the chief supervisor.

Leaving the test roomA student must not leave a test room in the first 40 minutes (after the start of perusal time) or within 10 minutes of the end of the test session, except in the case of illness or emergency. If a student happens to leave a test room in the first 40 minutes, the chief supervisor must take all reasonable precautions to make sure that no communication occurs between the student and any other student sitting the test at the test centre or at any other test centre.

The chief supervisor may decide to allow students to hand in their responses and testpapers and leave the test room 40 minutes after the start of perusal time and up to 10 minutes before the end of the test session. These students must not return to the test room during the test session. However, once the test session has ended, they may return to collect the relevant testpaper.

A student who has permission to leave the test room or leave their seat temporarily must be supervised while out of the test room or away from their seat. If a student does temporarily leave the test room or their seat, the chief supervisor is to make sure that a record is provided on the Form QCS 11 Register of temporary absence by students (see pages 69 and 70).

The QSA may withhold the test results of a student who leaves a test room before the finishing time without the permission of the supervisor.


6

Student conductTest conditions begin when the chief supervisor instructs students to enter the test room and end when the chief supervisor instructs all students to leave the test room.

A student must obey all reasonable directions given by a supervisor.

A student must sit at the desk allocated for the test and may not leave that desk except with the permission of a supervisor, or at the direction of a supervisor.

A supervisor may ask a student to move and sit in another place.

A student who wishes to speak with a supervisor must raise his/her hand and wait quietly.

During any test session, a student must not: communicate with anyone except a supervisor help anyone else to communicate with another person willingly receive a communication from anyone (except a supervisor) ask for help with the test, in whole or in part cheat or attempt to cheat.

Student equipment and materialsUnless given written permission by the QSA, a student must not bring into a test room any unauthorised equipment. This includes writing paper, blotting paper, book or manuscript, any equipment other than the equipment listed as essential or optional for that test session (see page 11), or food. It is immaterial that the unauthorised equipment is unrelated to the test.

The Writing Task test session is the only session in which students will be supplied with loose sheets of paper.

Do not supply students with loose sheets of paper in either of the Multiple Choice sessions or the Short Response session.

Students may not lend to or borrow from another student any equipment or materials.

In response to requests from students, the chief supervisor may allow the following materials to be brought into a test room by students: reading glasses, tinted prescription glasses, low vision aids plain folded tissues unwrapped cough lollies (barley sugar and other sweets are not allowed) spare batteries for calculators, hearing aids, etc. plain hand towel heat/cold pack earplugs water in a plain unlabelled container (must be kept on the floor).

| DFA 2012 QCS Test Rules for conducting the test

Duties of the chief supervisorThe following instructions are provided for the chief supervisor.

Before the days of the test

Organising chief community representativesCheck with the appointed chief community representatives and community representatives (if applicable) to confirm their availability for the test sessions. Arrange for replacements if necessary and access the QCS Test administration database on the QSA secure website to submit the changes electronically.

Receiving non-secure (Group A) support materialsWear the Chief supervisors ID card for the receipt of materials.

About two weeks before the test, the cartons containing the Group A materials will be delivered to the test centre. We will tell you and both chief community representatives of the date and time of delivery of the materials. We will ask the chief community representatives to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled delivery time.

The courier service will deliver the cartons to the administration area of the school. If the courier has not arrived within 20 minutes of the scheduled time, phone the Operations Assistant (courier service), on (07) 3635 4915.

You are to sign for and accept delivery of the cartons in the presence of both of your chief community representatives.

In the first carton will be a satchel addressed to the chief community representatives of your test centre. Open this carton and give the satchel to the chief community representatives.

Checking supply of materialsOpen the envelope containing the Materials supply lists. Keep the Materials supply list Group B in a safe place, until the later delivery of the Group B materials.

Use the Materials supply list Group A (see page 55) to check that you have received all your materials. Record the time of delivery on the supply list.

Open the bags and boxes and count the contents to verify that the quantities received agree with the quantities indicated on the supply list.

When the quantities agree, indicate () on the supply list.

If any materials are short-supplied, circle and indicate on the supply list the extra quantities needed.

If the quantity of materials supplied is not enough to cater for the number of students expected to sit the test, phone the Assistant Assessment Operations Officer on (07) 3864 0448 immediately.

Store cartons in a safe place.

Complete and fax a verified Materials supply list Group A to the Assessment Operations Unit on (07) 3864 0213 immediately.

Receive a completed Acknowledgment of receipt of key and ID card form from each of your chief community representatives. Fax both forms to the Assessment Operations Unit on (07) 3864 0213 immediately.

Receiving secure (Group B) materialsWear the Chief supervisors ID card for the receipt of materials.

Within one week of the test, the cases containing the secure Group B materials will be delivered to the test centre. We will tell you and both chief community representatives of the date and time of delivery of the cases. We will ask the chief community representatives to arrive 20 minutes before the scheduled delivery time.

The courier service will deliver the cases to the administration area of the school. If the courier has not arrived within 20 minutes of the scheduled time, phone the Operations Assistant (courier service), on (07) 3635 4915.

The chief community representatives are to accept delivery of the cases in your presence. Do not move the cases to another area for checking until the delivery process has been completed with the courier.


8

Checking supply of materialsThe materials will be packed in locked, colour-coded metal cases:

Blue WTGreen MC IRed SR and SR miniature paperPurple MC II.

Retrieve the Materials supply list Group B that you received earlier with the Group A materials.

After the delivery process has been completed, ask the chief community representatives to unlock the cases in your presence and then help you verify that the number of coloured plastic bags received agrees with the quantities indicated on the Materials supply list Group B (see page 56). Record the number of bags received and the time of delivery on the supply list.

Make sure that each chief community representative opens at least one case to verify that both keys work satisfactorily.

Do not open the bags containing the testpapers at this time for any reason.

If the number of testpapers indicated on the labels attached to the bags is not enough to cater for the number of students sitting the test, phone the Assistant Assessment Operations Officer on (07) 3864 0448 immediately.

Ask the chief community representatives to lock all the cases.

Store the cases in a secure place and maintain security of the cases.

Complete and fax a verified Materials supply list Group B to the Assessment Operations Unit on (07) 3864 0213 immediately.

Distributing Instructions to students handoutAs soon as possible after the multiple copies of the handout arrive at your school (see pages 71 and 72), distribute the Instructions to students to all Year 12 students who may sit the test.

When distributing the handout, tell students that: they must bring all of the essential equipment for each paper, and any of the optional equipment they think

necessary (see page 11) coloured pencils are essential for the Short Response testpaper supervisors do not supply equipment other than pens, pencils, coloured pencils, erasers or calculators during a

test session to students who do not have their own the calculators for use in the test will be checked by the chief supervisor to make sure they meet the

requirements for approval. See Note on the handout for the requirements. Each student is required to sign the Form QCS 10 Calculator declaration to certify that they agree to use an approved calculator only, and to show recognition that the use of any other calculator is an act of cheating in terms of sitting the QCS Test (see pages 67 and 68)

a student who is unable, for medical reasons, to sit all or part of the test must submit a medical certificate as part of the special provision process in order to remain eligible for an OP. A medical certificate acceptable to the QSA is one where a registered medical practitioner certifies to the existence of a medical condition preventing the student from sitting all or part of the test.

Checking and updating the attendance rollTwo copies of the QCS Test Attendance roll are provided to each test centre. The roll is printed from the data provided by schools in July (SDCS Data Submission 2 version 2) and from nominations received from private-entry candidates.

Students who enrol at the school after the submission of the SDCS data will not be listed on the attendance roll. You will need to add the details for these students to the roll manually. Before you do this, enter their details on the SDCS.

Students transferring from other Queensland schools already have student numbers. You must use these numbers for the transferred students. Do not give new numbers to students who transferred from other Queensland schools. Obtain confirmation of a transferred students details, number, etc. from the previous school by way of Form S1 Student transfer report generated from that schools SDCS.

| DFA 2012 QCS Test Duties of the chief supervisor

The QCS Test Attendance roll shows the student number, surname, given names, gender, date of birth and OP-eligibility status for each Year 12 student enrolled at the school and for each student in the following categories, if applicable: other Year 12 students (students enrolled at other Year 12 schools who are unable to sit the QCS Test at their

home test centre) School of Distance Education students (students enrolled at a School of Distance Education centre who are

unable to sit the QCS Test at their home test centre) private-entry candidates.

Amend the roll, if necessary: for each additional Year 12 student enrolled at the school add the student number, surname, given names,

gender, date of birth and OP-eligibility status for any student who is no longer enrolled in Year 12 at the school rule a line through the number, name,

gender, date of birth and OP-eligibility status. Across the attendance field, print LEFT SCHOOL.

Make sure both copies of the attendance roll are updated. Retain one copy for your records. Return the other copy to the QSA after the last test session.

Preparing place cardsWe print place cards from the data provided by schools in July (SDCS Data Submission 2 version 2) and from nominations received from private-entry candidates (see page 53).

Students who enrol at a school after the submission of the SDCS data or who, for some other reason, have not been included in the submission, will not have place cards. Prepare place cards for these students before the test. We provide blank place cards for this purpose (see page 54).

When preparing a place card ensure that: only the student number is entered on each of the adhesive labels the format for the student name is the same as that used for other students, that is, surname followed by given

names the information is printed clearly in black ballpoint pen.

We supply sufficient blank place cards to cater, where necessary, for students in the categories below who have not been provided with a place card: other Year 12 students School of Distance Education students private-entry candidates.

We will provide the information to you to prepare a place card for any students or candidates you might have in these categories.

Allocating place cardsTo identify the place where each student must sit during the test (as per the seating plan), place on or attach to the top of each desk a place card. There is one place card for each student for the four test sessions. The place card contains the barcode ID labels for WT, MC I, SR and MC II (see pages 53 and 54).On the back of each place card is an adhesive strip along the top to prevent it from being moved, blown away or accidentally taken out of the test room by a student during the two days of the test. You decide if you wish to use this strip.

Discard place cards for students who have definitely left school or who have transferred to other schools. Do not return these place cards to the QSA. Do not forward a place card for a student who has transferred from the school to the students new school. Do not attach the barcode ID labels for any of these students to any absentee sheet.

Schools who enrol transferred students after the submission of SDCS Data Submission 2 version 2 will have sufficient blank place cards to prepare personalised place cards for these students.


10

Preparing the test roomPlan to conduct the test under favourable conditions, free from interruptions, noise and other distractions.

Make sure there is adequate lighting.

Place clock/s in prominent position/s, visible to all students.

Make sure that clocks are synchronised.

Remove, reverse or cover all wall charts, maps, posters, artwork, etc.

Clean blackboards and whiteboards.

Prepare blackboards/whiteboards to record the starting, warning and finishing times during the test sessions(see pages 33, 41 and 49).

Clear desks ready for distributing test materials (reverse desks with shelves).

Arranging seatingUse the QCS Test Attendance roll and your knowledge about how many of your students are expected to sit the test to work out the number of seats you need to provide in your test room/s. If you know that particular OP-ineligible students are not going to sit the test, do not provide seats for these students. Do not leave a seat for a student who has left school or who has transferred to another school.

Seat students so that they all face the same way (normally the front of the test room).

Seat students at least 1.5 metres apart in each direction (from head to head).

Seat students so that supervisors have direct and easy access to and around every student and can observe all students at all times. Do not seat students against a wall or such structure. Supervisors must be able to move around every student.

Seat each category of student separately, that is, Year 12 students from your school, Year 12 students from other schools, School of Distance Education students, private-entry candidates.

Starting from the front of the room, seat all students within a category in alphabetical order across the room (and from room to room, if multiple rooms are used).

Seat students who have approval for separate supervision in another room or section. All students who have been given the same amount of extra time may be seated in the same section (away from the rest of the students) and may be supervised by the same supervisor.

Complete the Form QCS 9 Seating plan (see pages 64–66), to identify where each student is sitting in the testroom/s. Copy and attach extra copies of the form according to the layout of test rooms if necessary.

The seating plan and the seating arrangements must be the same for all four test sessions. Sign the seating plan and return it to the QSA after the last test session.

Checking student equipmentEnsure that students have signed and that you have signed the Form QCS 10 Calculator declaration to certify that the students calculators have been checked and that they meet the requirements for approval (see pages 67 and 68).

QCS Test items are developed on the basis that the type of calculator used should not constitute an advantage or disadvantage for a student. The calculator should be able to perform the basic functions of addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, square roots and powers. The calculator is to be hand-held, solar or battery-operated, noiseless and not attached to a printer. The calculator must not have a computer algebra system (CAS), spell-checker, dictionary, thesaurus, or translator as these functions could prohibit the proper testing of some common curriculum elements (CCEs). Graphing calculators without CAS functionality may be used.

Mobile phones are not permitted, so students will not be able to use the calculator functions of a mobile phone during the test.

Electronic devices such as iPods or translators are not permitted. No form of personal computer is permitted, e.g. laptop, notebook, hand-held organiser, pocket PC. Having such devices may be considered as cheating.

Remind students of the equipment they are to bring to the test (see page 11).

Check that all students have all their essential equipment.

Decide whether students are allowed to bring other materials into the test room (see page 6). Tell your supervisors and chief community representatives about your decision to allow or not allow students to bring other materials into the test room.


Equipment that students provide for themselves

Providing equipmentHave on hand, in a central location in each test room, a small supply of black ballpoint pens, pencils, coloured pencils, erasers, calculators and tissues.

Do not allow students to lend to or borrow from other students any equipment.

Arranging supervisionSelect teachers from your staff to be supervisors of the test.

When you accommodate students in class rooms, allocate supervisors in a ratio of one supervisor per maximum of 25 students, excluding the chief community representatives, community representatives and yourself. You may change the ratio to one supervisor per maximum of 35 students if you accommodate more than 75 students in a single, separate area such as a school hall.

Brief supervisors on their responsibilities and duties at least a week before the test (see page 24).

Make sure each supervisor has access to a copy of this handbook.

Arranging variations to test conditions for students who have been approved special provisionSpecial provision (variations to test conditions and exemption) can only be approved by the QSA. Written notification of the outcome of applications for special provision will be sent to students and the principal throughout the year. Two weeks before the test we will send advice about all approved applications to the chief supervisor in a report that provides a summary of the applications. Chief supervisors should refer to the copies of notifications sent to the principal for details of variations to test conditions.

Variations to test conditions approved by the QSA must be implemented by the test centre, unless a student decides they do not wish to use the variation. At least one week before the test, the chief supervisor must speak with each student who has been approved variations to determine which of the approved variations they wish to use.

Test sessionPermitted

Not permittedEssential Optional

Writing Task pens (black ink) pencilspencil sharpenererasercorrecting fluid/tapehighlightertransparent container to carry equipmentother approved items as permitted by the chief supervisor (see page 6)

own paperdictionarythesauruselectronic devicesany other items

Multiple Choice IandMultiple Choice II

2B pencilspencil sharpenereraserrulerapproved calculator

highlightertransparent container to carry equipmentother approved items as permitted by the chief supervisor (see page 6)

own paperdictionarythesaurusprotractordrawing compasselectronic devicesany other items

Short Response pens (black ink)pencilsprotractordrawing compasserasercoloured pencilsrulerapproved calculatortransparent container to carry equipment

highlighterpencil sharpenercorrecting fluid/tapeother approved items as permitted by the chief supervisor (see page 6)

own paperdictionarythesauruselectronic devicesany other items


12

Some variations to test conditions may require preparation by the chief supervisor, e.g. additional supervisor/s (if separate supervision is approved), computer, special seating.

See page 73 for instructions on administering variations to test conditions.

Corrections instructionsDetails of any corrections to the testpapers or changes to the administration of the test will be available to you from 7:00 am on Monday the day before the first test day. You must access the QCS Test administration database on the QSA website to print these instructions.

Even if there are no corrections to be made, you must access and print the instructions.

At the very least, the instructions will provide essential information about the SR test session (see page 46).

Make sufficient copies of the Corrections instructions for all your supervisors and the chief community representatives.

Phone the Assessment Operations Unit on (07) 3864 0394 before 12:30 pm on Monday the day before the first test day if you have any problems accessing these instructions.

On the days of the testWear the Chief supervisors ID card.

Retrieve the following items from the Group A support materials: absentee sheets for the particular test session envelope containing the security seals envelope containing consignment notes for the particular test session.

Make sure that: supervisors and chief community representatives receive a copy of the Corrections instructions chief community representatives receive their copy of the letter approving variations to conditions to sit the test

for a particular student (if applicable).

Ask a chief community representative to open the appropriate cases approximately 2540 minutes before the start of each test session. Depending on the number of students sitting and the number of test rooms being used, this procedure may take longer. Consider how much time you will need. Open the bags, check and distribute the testpapers from one room in the presence of a chief community representative. Make sure security is maintained once the bags are opened.

Count the number of testpapers taken from each bag and check that this number is the same as the number of testpapers shown on the label as being enclosed in the bag. If there is a discrepancy, make sure that a record is provided on the Form QCS 2 Report from the chief supervisor (see pages 58 and 59).

During each test sessionPlace testpapers and response books/sheets on those desks that have place cards. Keep surplus materials in each test room during the test session. Make sure that: supervisors and students follow the rules and directions for administering and sitting the test the Corrections instructions are acted upon, as necessary supervisors supervise actively, that is, constantly moving quietly around and between students (see page 24) temporary absences of students are recorded by supervisors only students read or work through testpapers no test materials are left on unoccupied desks for more than 40 minutes after the start of perusal time the QCS Test Attendance roll is marked 40 minutes after the start of perusal time the test is not suspended or interrupted (see page 15).

Make sure that the chief community representatives: remove the relevant barcode ID label from the place card for each absent student and attach it to the Absentee

sheet. Do not forget the labels for OP-ineligible students who were not expected to sit the test.

Record any unusual circumstances reported by supervisors, chief community representatives or community representatives. Phone the Manager, QCS Test, on (07) 3864 0270 for urgent enquiries about the testpaper.


Admitting students to the test roomMake sure that supervisors: admit students to the test room only after the testpapers and response books/sheets have been distributed check that students bring into the test room only the equipment permitted for that session place any unauthorised materials in a safe place.

You may ask any student present in the test room to show proof of identity. If a student has failed to prove identity, make a report in writing to the Manager, Assessment Operations. The QSA may, after appropriate investigation, withhold the students test result.

Private-entry candidatesCheck that each private-entry candidate has: this years candidate identification form suitable photographic identification.

If a candidate cannot provide both forms of identification, you are to: tell the candidate that he or she will be allowed to sit the test, but a ruling will be made later by the QSA on the

candidates eligibility have the candidate provide in writing, before sitting the test, sufficient details to satisfy the QSA of his or her

identity, for example date of birth, school last attended ask the candidate to explain in writing, before sitting the test, why he or she is unable to provide suitable

identification and inform the candidate that, if this causes a delay in the candidates starting time, no extra time will be granted to complete the test

report in writing to the Manager, Assessment Operations after the last test session.

If a private-entry candidate presents at the wrong test centre: follow the procedure above for checking the candidates identification tell the candidate that he or she will be allowed to sit the test, but a QSA ruling will be made later on the

candidates eligibility report in writing to the Manager, Assessment Operations after the last test session.

Marking the attendance rollUse the QCS Test Attendance roll (in duplicate) for all four test sessions. You need only record absences for each test session by entering A in the appropriate column. You do not need to make any mark beside the names of students who are present for the test session. Do not forget to record the absences of your OP-ineligible students.

The name of any student who has left school or transferred to another school should have been deleted from the roll in the process of checking and updating the attendance roll (see page 8).

Complete the absence summary for each category of students on the last page of the QCS Test Attendance roll by recording the number of students absent for each test session. These numbers must agree with the number of ID labels attached to the relevant absentee sheets.

Calculate and record the revised total number of students at the end of the QCS Test Attendance roll.

For each student marked absent for one or more sessions, clearly indicate in the space provided the reason for the absence. To save time, use the codes listed below to indicate particular reasons. If the reason is not listed, indicate the reason with a brief description.

In previous years, medical certificates, etc. for absent students have been sent to us in either a purple case or in a provided envelope. This year we have changed the process. If an OP-eligible student is unavoidably absent from all

Reason for absence Code

Medical/sick/illness M

Bereavement/funeral B

Sports representation S

Transport problems T

Weather problems W

Ineligible student I


14

or part of the test and wants to remain eligible for an OP, a teacher or guidance officer should help the student to complete an Application for exemption for unexpected absence, available from http://www.qsa.qld.edu.au/1102.html from 4 September 2012. The form must be faxed to 3221 2930 with supporting documentation by 3 October 2012. Medical certificates must cover the days of the test and provide details of the medical condition (e.g. chicken pox) and not simply say "a medical condition". Do not put application forms or supporting documentation in the metal cases.

Regulating student conductCarry out random checks for possession of unauthorised equipment by students. Confiscate any unauthorised equipment found. Allow the student to complete the test after appropriate but minimal intervention, and tell the student at the end of the test session that they have breached the rules for sitting the test and that the QSA will rule on any punitive measures. Do not pre-empt any judgment of a case of cheating. Only the QSA has punitive powers for the test. Report such incidents in writing to the Manager, QCS Test.

During the WT and SR sessions, students must cover their work when possible. During the MC sessions students must turn their response sheets face down or cover them when possible.

Cheating includes, but is not confined to: looking at another students work. making it possible for another student to copy responses deliberately or knowingly. plagiarising someone elses work. bringing unauthorised equipment or materials into the test room. communicating with any person other than a supervisor, e.g. through talking or whispering, passing notes,

making gestures.

Dealing with an alleged error in the testDo not vary test conditions in any way. After the test session, tell students that the QSA will take corrective measures if necessary. Report the incident in writing to the Manager, QCS Test.


Dealing with a disturbance to the administration of the testMake every effort to complete the test, whatever the disturbance, even if the test session is greatly extended. A second sitting of the test is extraordinarily difficult to arrange, potentially traumatic for students, and immensely inconvenient for schools. It also presents serious technical and administrative problems.

In the event of disturbances to the total group of students in a test centre (e.g. a bomb scare): tell students to leave all materials in the room evacuate students make a note of the time closely supervise students during the disturbance, making every effort to restrict communication between

them maintain regular contact with the Manager, QCS Test, telephone (07) 3864 0270. Decisions about modification

to the administration of the test session will be made progressively unless otherwise determined, when the all clear is given, tell students to return to the test room to complete

the testpaper adjust finish time appropriately keep a written record of the incident.

After the test we will review the circumstances to determine what action, if any, is needed to ensure fair treatment for all concerned.

In the case of unintentional disturbances caused by a single person within the test room (e.g. uncontrolled crying or coughing), or from outside (e.g. jackhammers on nearby construction sites), the chief supervisor has the right and duty to act as he or she sees fit. The first priority must be to enable all students to concentrate undisturbed on completing the test. For example, the person/s in the test room causing the disturbance should be asked to leave the test room. In the case of severe disturbances (for example, use of force), call the police. Record the nature of the disturbance, the period of the disturbance and your assessment of its effect on students. Send this record to the Manager, QCS Test after the last test session.

At the end of each test sessionCollect all student responses.

Make sure that each student hands in only one student response.

Check that the number of student responses collected is the same as the number of students present for the test session. If a student has used a second WT response book or a second SR testpaper, staple the second one inside the back cover of the first response book/testpaper. Do this in the presence of at least one chief community representative.

Do not allow students to leave until the number of student responses collected and the number of students present is the same.

At the end of the WT, MC I and MC II test sessions, allow students to take their testpapers from the test room.

At the end of the SR test session, students are to collect the SR miniature testpaper to take with them from the test room (see page 50).

Allow students to leave the test room.

If you have students who have been approved special provision, complete the sections of the Special provision response materials form that relate to the test session.

Packing of materialsStart packing immediately after the students have left the test room. You and the chief community representatives must follow the packing instructions for each session: Writing Task (see page 35) Multiple Choice (see page 43) Short Response (see page 51).


16

Summary of what to do with test materials

Place on each desk Have on handCollect

after test session

Retain after test session

Discard Send to QSA Pack in

Writing Task1 place card

(remains on desk forall four test sessions)

3 loose sheets of paper1 testpaper1 response book

pens (black ink)pencilserasers

response books

place cardsspare testpapers

(students retain own testpapers)

loose sheets of paper

unused/spoiled response books

blue plastic bags

completed response books

(Collection 1)

envelopes inside blue case/s

Multiple Choice I1 testpaper 1 response sheet

2B pencils erasers

calculators to replace faulty ones

response sheets

place cards spare testpapers


unused/spoiledresponse sheetsgreen plastic

bags

completed response sheets

(Collection 2)

cardboard boxes sealed in white envelopes inside green case/s

Short Response1 testpaper

pens (black ink)pencilscoloured pencilseraserscalculators to

replace faulty ones

testpapers place cardsspare testpapers

and spare SR miniatures(students given SR miniatures after test session)

spoiled testpapers

red plastic bags

completed testpapers

(Collection 2)

envelopes inside red case/s

Multiple Choice II1 testpaper1 response sheet

2B pencilseraserscalculators to

replace faulty ones

response sheets

place cards spare testpapers


unused/spoiled response sheets

place cardspurple plastic

bags

completed response sheets

(Collection 3)

cardboard boxes sealed in white envelopes inside purple case/s

attendance roll and forms,ID cards for chief supervisor and community representatives

(Collection 3)

envelopes inside a purple case


Case collections after test sessionsThe courier service will collect the cases from the administration area of the school.

The QSA will inform you, in writing, of the scheduled dates and times that your cases will be collected by the courier service. This information will also be available through the QCS Test administration database on the QSA secure website.

The chief supervisor does not need to be present in the administration area of the school when collections are made. However, the chief supervisor must inform the appropriate school staff of the collection details, namely the colour and number of cases, the collection schedule and the contact number, (07) 3635 4915, to phone if the courier service does not arrive within 20 minutes of the scheduled time.

If the second collection is made between 3:15 pm and 4:00 pm on the Wednesday, the green, red and purple cases will be collected, making a third collection unnecessary.

Collection Area Range of collection times Cases

1

Brisbane and provincial cities

Between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm on Tuesday Blue only

Queensland country areas

Between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm on TuesdayorBetween 8:00 am and 11:00 am on Wednesday

2

Brisbane and provincial cities

Between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm on Wednesday Green and red

Queensland country areas

Between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm on WednesdayorBetween 8:00 am and 11:00 am on Thursday

3 All areas Between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm on Thursday Purple


18

After the last test sessionAttend to the following: QCS Test Attendance roll

make sure all absentees have been marked make sure the reason for absence has been indicated for each student marked as absent make sure chief community representatives have signed the roll sign as correct.

Form QCS 1 Attendance report make sure the totals at A, B, C, D and E are the same re-check the data against the absentee sheets and the attendance roll sign the declaration.

Form QCS 2 Report from the chief supervisor make sure the form is completed sign the declaration.

Forms QCS 3, 4, 5 and 6 Absentee sheets make sure the information recorded on the attendance roll is the same as the barcode ID labels attached for

each test session make sure the chief community representatives have signed the absentee sheets sign as correct.

Form QCS 9 Seating plan make sure the form is completed make sure the chief community representatives have signed the seating plan sign the declaration.

Form QCS 11 Register of temporary absence by students make sure all temporary absences are recorded sign the declaration.

Sign the Travel claim for chief community representative B (if applicable).

Send to us, in the envelopes as indicated, in one of the purple cases: QCS Test Attendance roll (one copy only; school retains the second copy) Form QCS 1 Attendance report Form QCS 2 Report from the chief supervisor Form QCS 3 Paper 1 (WT) Absentee sheet Form QCS 4 Paper 2 (MC I) Absentee sheet Form QCS 5 Paper 3 (SR) Absentee sheet Form QCS 6 Paper 4 (MC II) Absentee sheet Form QCS 9 Seating plan Form QCS 10 Calculator declaration Form QCS 11 Register of temporary absence by students Chief supervisor ID card and community representative ID cards (if applicable) Travel claim for chief community representative B (if applicable).

By Friday of the week of the test, access the QCS Test administration database on the QSA secure website to finalise the record of attendance of chief community representatives and community representatives. If you do not do this, they will not be paid.

If you have students who have been approved special provision, fax the Special provision response materials form to 3864 0213 by 3:00 pm on Thursday 6 September.


Duties of chief community representativesThe following instructions are provided for chief community representatives.

Before the days of the testWith your appointment notice, you will receive the documents listed below. If they apply to you, complete and return them to the QSA in the reply paid envelope by the end of August. Tax file number declaration (if you have not worked for the QSA previously or if you have previously worked for

the QSA and your taxation details have changed) Electronic funds transfer (EFT) form (if you have not worked for the QSA previously or if you have previously

worked for the QSA and your bank and/or personal details have changed).

Contact the chief supervisor of the school to which you have been appointed to confirm that you accept the appointment.

If you will not be available to accept this appointment, contact the chief supervisor of the school that nominated you immediately. The chief supervisor will arrange for a replacement.

Become familiar with the administrative procedures for the test as outlined in this handbook.

Receiving the keyThe non-secure (Group A) support materials will be delivered to the school by the courier service about two weeks before the test. You must attend the school 10 minutes before the scheduled delivery time to receive the key for the cases. The QSA will inform you, in writing, of the date and time of delivery. After you receive this notice contact the chief supervisor to confirm your availability.

The chief supervisor will sign for the receipt of the support materials and open the first carton so that you can be given the satchel addressed to the chief community representatives. The satchel will contain two envelopes one for each chief community representative (A and B). Each envelope will contain: small cardboard box containing the key for the cases and the chief community representatives ID card Acknowledgment of receipt of key and ID card form Authority for transfer of key and ID card form QCS Form 7 Report from the chief community representative labelled white envelope (for return of QCS Form 7) reply paid postpak padded bag.

Open your envelope immediately to check that all the listed items are enclosed. Open the small cardboard box to check that the code on the key and ID card matches the position code on your appointment notice.

Complete and sign the Acknowledgment of receipt of key and ID card form. Hand your completed form to the chief supervisor who will fax your signed form to the QSA immediately to confirm that you have received your key and ID card.

Keep the key and ID card secure.

Confirm with the chief supervisor that you will attend the school to receive the secure materials. If, after the key delivery, you become unavailable to do so, a replacement will be arranged. Meet with your replacement to hand over the key at the school or at an agreed place. Complete, sign and return to us the Authority for transfer of key and ID card form.

Receiving secure (Group B) materialsThe secure (Group B) materials will be delivered to the school by the courier service during the week before the test. You must attend the school 20 minutes before the scheduled delivery time to receive the cases containing the test materials. The QSA will inform you, in writing, of the date and time of delivery. After you receive this notice, contact the chief supervisor to confirm your availability.

Both of the chief community representatives must be present when the materials are delivered.

The chief supervisor will be present and will be wearing a blue ID badge. Wear the Chief community representatives ID card for the receipt of materials. Receive all of the cases in the presence of the chief supervisor. Sign the consignment note from each case and give the appropriate copy to the courier.


20

After the delivery process has been completed with the courier: Ask the chief supervisor for the Materials supply list Group B (see page 56). Record the time of delivery on the Materials supply list Group B. Unlock the cases for the chief supervisor; each chief community representative is to open at least one case to

make sure that both keys work satisfactorily. Assist the chief supervisor to check the contents of each case and to check that the quantities indicated on the

labels on the coloured plastic bags agree with the quantities indicated on the Materials supply list Group B. Do not allow the bags containing the secure test materials to be opened at this time for any reason. Lock the cases after the contents have been checked. Keep the key secure. Witness the secure storage of the cases. Sign the Materials supply list Group B. Witness the faxing of the completed Materials supply list Group B. Phone the Team Leader (Senior) on (07) 3864 0344 if you have any concerns about the actions listed here. Confirm with the chief supervisor that you will be able to attend all four test sessions. Immediately contact the chief supervisor of the school to which you have been appointed and the chief

supervisor of the school that nominated you if you will be unable to attend any of the test sessions.

On the days of the testWear your Chief community representatives ID card.

Attend all test sessions.

Arrive at the test centre at least 40 minutes before the starting time for each session.

Under the direction of the chief supervisor unlock the appropriate cases.

Obtain from the chief supervisor: the envelope containing the security seals a copy of the Corrections instructions your copy of the letter approving variation to the conditions to sit the test for a particular student (if applicable) the absentee sheets for the particular test session.

Make sure that: any wall charts, maps, posters, artwork, etc. in the test room/s have been removed, reversed or covered the test centre environment is not unduly distracting to students students are seated at least 1.5 metres apart in each direction (from head to head) students are seated in alphabetical order across the room except for students who have had variations to their

test conditions approved by the QSA the students seating positions agree with the way the student numbers are shown on Form QCS 9 Seating

plan. Comment in writing if necessary and sign the form/s the cases are opened no earlier than necessary all sealed plastic bags are opened in your presence no one other than the chief supervisor, supervisors, chief community representatives and community

representatives has access to the materials and then only to check contents. Record any discrepancies on the Form QCS 7 Report from the chief community representative (see pages 61 and 62)

surplus copies of testpapers/response books/response sheets are placed in one stack in each test room after the testpapers have been distributed to students.

Note the number of faulty testpapers, if any, that have been issued to students and note the nature of the faults for recording later on the QCS Form 7 Report from the chief community representative.

| DFA 2012 QCS Test Duties of chief community representatives

During each test sessionObserve, and report later to the Assessment Operations Unit on the actual administration of the test.

Supervise community representatives (if applicable).

Remain separate from other community representatives.

Move quietly around the test room/s.

Wear soft-soled shoes.

Do not disturb students.

Do not sit down.

Limit conversation to what is necessary for the administration of the test session.

Forty minutes after the start of perusal time, remove the relevant ID label from the place card for each absent student and attach the label to the Absentee sheet. Depending on the number of absent students, you may need to arrange for the Absentee sheet to be photocopied before you attach any labels. Do not forget the labels for OP-ineligible students who were not expected to sit the test.

Do not read or work through the testpapers during the administration of the test.

Check, and if breaches in any of the following are detected by community representatives or by you, report immediately to the chief supervisor: the test is administered according to directions given by the QSA any special arrangements are made that apply to your test centre or to students who have been approved

special provision by the QSA the test starts within the designated times (see page 4). Phone the Team Leader (Senior) on (07) 3864 0344 if

you become aware of any irregularity the starting and finishing times for the test session given by the supervisor allow students the correct amount

of time the supervisors carry out their supervision actively there are sufficient supervisors (one supervisor per maximum of 25 students sitting the test, excluding the

chief community representatives, community representatives and the chief supervisor, or one supervisor per maximum of 35 students if the students are supervised in a single separate group larger than 75 students)

the supervisors randomly check a minimum of 25% of the students for unauthorised materials (see pages 6, 13 and 26)

the supervisors respond appropriately to alleged errors in the testpaper, that is, that they make notes to report to the QSA afterwards

names of students marked as absent on the QCS Test Attendance roll report agree with the barcode ID labels you attached to the relevant Absentee sheet/s

a supervisor accompanies any student who is given permission to leave the test room or their seat temporarily a supervisor records the details of the students who leave the test room or their seat temporarily for reporting

on the QCS Form 11 Register of temporary absence by students there is no evidence of cheating as far as you can ascertain. Record all incidents involving possible cheating and

possession or use of unauthorised equipment for reporting later.

At the end of each test sessionMake sure the total number of responses collected from the students is the same as the number of students present. If a student has used a second WT response book or a second SR testpaper, make sure the second one is stapled inside the back cover of the first response book/testpaper.

Check the packing of student responses.

Sign the label on each envelope/box to certify that a particular number of completed student responses are enclosed in the envelope/box.

Witness the chief supervisor attaching the security seals over the end of each envelope.

Make sure that all sealed envelopes are placed in the correct cases and that you lock each case.

Keep the key secure.

Witness the storage of the cases in a safe and secure place. They are to be kept there until the courier service collects them.


22

After the last test sessionCounter-sign: QCS Test Attendance roll Form QCS 3 Paper 1 (WT) Absentee sheet Form QCS 4 Paper 2 (MC I) Absentee sheet Form QCS 5 Paper 3 (SR) Absentee sheet Form QCS 6 Paper 4 (MC II) Absentee sheet Form QCS 9 Seating plan Special provision response materials form (only if you have students who have been approved special

provision).

Complete and sign the Travel claim for chief community representative B (if applicable).

Hand all the above forms and travel claim to the chief supervisor for return with the other completed documentation.

Lock the cases.

Destroy all the unused security seals.

Complete Form QCS 7 Report from the chief community representative. If it is necessary to make a detailed statement about any aspect of the test, staple a signed statement to the form. Use the small cardboard box, labelled white envelope and the reply paid postpak padded bag provided to post the following items to the QSA: key for the cases Chief community representatives ID card Form QCS 7 Report from the chief community representative.

| DFA 2012 QCS Test Duties of chief community representatives


Duties of community representativesThe following instructions are provided for community representatives.

Before the days of the testWith your appointment notice, you will receive the documents listed below. If they apply to you, complete and return them to the QSA in the reply paid envelope by the end of August. Tax file number declaration (if you have not worked for the QSA previously or if you have previously worked for

the QSA and your taxation details have changed) Electronic funds transfer (EFT) form (if you have not worked for the QSA previously or if you have previously

worked for the QSA and your bank and/or personal details have changed).

Contact the chief supervisor of the school to which you have been appointed to confirm that you accept the appointment and to find out the specific times and place for the test sessions.

If you will not be available for any of the test sessions, contact the chief supervisor of the school immediately.

Become familiar with the administrative procedures for the test as outlined in this handbook.

On the days of the testAsk the chief supervisor for your Community representatives ID card. Wear your Community representatives ID card.

Attend all test sessions. Arrive at the test centre at least 20 minutes before the starting time for each session.

During each test sessionObserve, and report later to a chief community representative on the actual administration of the test.

Tell a chief community representative immediately if you have concerns about any aspect of the administration of the test.

Remain separate from other community representatives.

Move quietly around the test room/s.

Wear soft-soled shoes.

Do not disturb students.

Do not sit down.

Limit conversation to what is necessary for the administration of the test session.

Do not read or work through any testpapers during the administration of the test.

Check that: the supervisors carry out their supervision actively the supervisors respond appropriately to alleged errors in the testpaper, that is, they make notes and report to

the QSA afterwards. Report all such incidents to a chief community representative, who will report to the QSA after the last test session

a supervisor accompanies any student given permission to leave the test room or their seat temporarily.

At the end of each test sessionReport to a chief community representative: incidents when a supervisor did not respond appropriately to alleged errors in the content of the testpaper incidents of cheating or suspected cheating possession of unauthorised equipment by students incidents that indicate that the test is not administered according to directions given by the QSA.

After the last test sessionHand your Community representatives ID card to the chief supervisor for return to the QSA.

24

Duties of supervisorsThe following instructions are provided for supervisors.

Before the days of the testPrepare for your supervision of test sessions by: attending briefing/s by the chief supervisor reading the relevant sections of this handbook thoroughly.

On the days of the testBe on time for your supervision duties.

Carry out duties as required by the chief supervisor.

Take into the test room only materials considered by the chief supervisor to be necessary for the test session.

Do not read or work through any testpapers.

During each test session

Supervising the testFollow the directions for the administration of each test session. Writing Task (see page 30) Multiple Choice (see page 38) Short Response (see page 46).

Read the instructions to students indicated by the symbol exactly as printed withi

memo 044/12 senior secondary: queensland core skills (qcs) … · 23 july 2012 number: 044/12 years...

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