Literacy
HSC Minimum Standards in Week 3
New minimum standards in literacy and numeracy were introduced in 2018 in NSW for the HSC 2020 and beyond. All students in NSW need to meet this minimum standard by sitting short online tests in reading, writing and numeracy.
The HSC Minimum Standard was introduced to help ensure students leave school with basic literacy and numeracy skills for success in life, and that students will be able to communicate their ideas effectively in the HSC exams. Regardless of students’ plans beyond school, they will need adequate reading, writing and numeracy skills.
All students will all have the opportunity to sit their HSC exams; however, they will need to demonstrate the new minimum standard in reading, writing and numeracy in order to be awarded their HSC certificate.
There will be multiple opportunities for students to demonstrate the standard between now and when they complete the HSC, starting this term for students in Year 10. The short online tests will take place at school and students will have multiple opportunities a year (if needed) to pass them in Years 10, 11, and 12. Students will also be able to take them for up to five years after starting their first HSC course.
Year 10 at Corpus Christi will have their first opportunity for 2025 on the following dates this term:
- Monday, May 12 - Writing
- Tuesday, May 13 - Reading
- Wednesday, May 14 - Numeracy
They will, if required, have further opportunities later in the year.
For more information, you can visit https://educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/nesa/11-12/hsc/hsc-minimum-standard
There is no specific study required for the tests but if students would like to prepare, they can do the following:
- Go to the Literacy website at https://sites.google.com/dow.catholic.edu.au/literacy/home and search for the videos that address an area they would like to work on.
- Google: “HSC minimum standards sample test questions” to have a go at some sample test questions.
If you have any questions, please email me at dysonc01@dow.catholic.edu.au.
Mr Chris Dyson
Leader of Literacy