Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I order the test packs?
The test packs can be purchased in two forms. They can be downloaded or a CD Rom version can be ordered for delivery by post. Select your preference from the pack pages.
- I purchased a test pack but the software is asking for a serial?
Each test pack requires a serial per user, per machine, this will have been emailed to you at the time you completed the purchase. Please check your SPAM folder for this email in case it has been incorrectly moved there. If you purchased a download version of our software, you will be able to see the serial and download instructions in your Google Checkout purchase history. If you still can't find your serial, please email support@examsoftware.co.uk providing your Google Order number
- I can't get the software to work, how do I get support?
Please visit our support pages for help installing and running the software.
- What guarantees are there that the packs will improve my child's performance?
There are no guarantees. The packs are designed to aid revision, alongside everything else that occurs during SATs years, but can't guarantee movement in and between levels. However, remember the old adage, "practise makes perfect".
- How do the packs work?
The packs provide two different modes of operation, Revision Mode and Test mode. In Revision Mode children can practice multiple-choice questions at their own pace with hints to help them if they get stuck. In Test Mode the hints are removed and a set number of questions must be completed in a given time.
- How are the tests marked?
The multiple-choice tests are computer marked and formative analysis is provided automatically.
- Why are the packs different prices?
The downloadable versions are cheaper as there are no postage and packaging costs involved. The individual year group packs are cheaper as there is a smaller database of questions.
- Won't the tests just be repeated after a few attempts?
The database is so large that this it is statistically impossible for two tests to be identical. It is possible that some questions might occur more than once, but no two tests will ever be the same.
- What kind of analysis do the tests provide?
The results will help you to pinpoint specific weak topics within a subject (e.g. Handling Data in Maths) or highlight a certain Level of questions within a subject as a weakness.
- Can you just practise one particular area of weakness?
Yes. For example if the test analysis shows a weakness in Applying and Using in Maths then just this area can be practised in the Revision Mode.
- My child is in Year 4 and not doing SATs until Year 6 so are these packs still useful?
Yes, because most schools do non-statutory SATs at the end of each year as well as half or termly tests. The Year 3, 4, 5 packs are designed specifically for these year groups.
- Will these tests tell me what level my child is?
No, they are not designed for this, but they will help to pinpoint specific weak topics within a subject (e.g. Handling Data in Maths) or highlight a certain Level of questions within a subject as a weakness.
- How many times can my child take a test?
As many times as you like. The program is designed to randomly select questions from the database so that no two tests will ever be identical. This is the advantage of our system as opposed to other paper based revision aids that can be completed only once.
- What do the National Curriculum levels mean?
The government expects the average child to achieve a Level 4 by the end of Year 6. The average child is expected to advance one whole level every two years.
- What is the advantage of buying this system?
The packs provide two different modes of operation, Revision Mode and Test mode. In Revision Mode children can practise multiple-choice questions at their own pace with hints to help them if they get stuck. In Test Mode the hints are removed and a set number of questions must be completed in a given time. The program is designed to randomly select questions from the database so that no two tests will ever be identical. This is the main advantage of our system as opposed to other paper based revision aids that can be completed only once. In addition to this the tests are computer marked and formative analysis is provided automatically.
- What if my child gets stuck and needs help?
In the Revision Mode each question comes with a hint and on the ‘Stuff' side of our website you will find additional support in the form of specific help sheets.
- What level should a Year 6 child be aiming for?
The government expects the average child to achieve a Level 4 by the end of Year 6 with the above average child achieving a Level 5.