Primary Literacy Assessment

The Primary Literacy Assessment (PLA) measures how well students are able to perform specific literacy skills by the end of Grade 3. You can review detailed guidelines and policies in the Primary Literacy Assessment Administration Guide.

What skills are measured in the primary literacy assessment?

The assessment will measure reading comprehension and writing skills to ensure your child is reading well before moving on to the elementary grades. The following reading samples and writing rubric describe the skills being measured.

No More Allowance

Flash! Splash! Training a Deaf Polar Bear

Answer Key for the above reading samples

Writing Rubric (personal expressive)

Student writing and justification sample 1

Student writing and justification sample 2

Student writing and justification sample 3

How long does it take to write the primary literacy assessment?

The assessment is administered in the classroom over several days during a two-week period in May. Students will participate in one writing activity and four reading activities that will each take about one hour to complete.

How should my child prepare for the primary literacy assessment?

The best preparation for any assessment is arriving at school well rested and ready to participate. While no special study is required for this assessment, you are encouraged to talk to the teacher about how well your child is reading and writing, and about how you can support your child’s literacy at home.

Who can I contact for more information?

Contact your child’s teacher directly, or

Achievement and Accountability

Department of Education and Lifelong Learning

Holman Centre

250 Water St., Suite 101

Summerside, PE  C1N 1B6

Tel: (902) 438-4887

Fax: (902) 438-4889

Email: lrunderhill@gov.pe.ca