Why run a Science Extension Trial exam?

While a SCX Trial Exam has to be a 0% task, can you afford to have your students forget about Science Extension over that long Trial Examination block (and hand-back - it goes on and on)?

​

Features needed

• Typing is more different from handwriting that a first-blush might indicate. There is a skill in using the interface to type your subheadings (as you plan your answer) then using the fact that it is a word processor to flesh out each heading in the limited time. So, an interface that has them typing with simple formatting tools (bold, underlined, a table, etc,) helps them rehearse this important skill as well as the knowledge and understanding - helping them demonstrate an extensive knowledge.​

• Great questions

• Stimuli that reflect the HSC examination: short video, slide decks and images.

• Navigation that reflect the HSC exam experience

• Robust technology that captures each keystroke (doesn't need the student to remember to SAVE)

• Something you can do in-house with the resources your school already has

​

I played around with many ideas and options (including using a lock-down browser) and finally settled on Google Docs. Universal, robust, keystroke by keystroke saving... it just works! The new "Tabs" feature in a doc allows for a side navigation that mimics the HSC -allowing them random access to each question. Each tab is essentially a completely new document (no scrolling down to find the next question)

The sample below is a free template for you to use. It is designed as a rehearsal, but includes two sample questions which are a worthwhile revision activity in their own right.

If you like that (and you are a little time poor) you can purchase a complete examination with all the work done for you (it takes a lot to write Science Extension questions!)​​​