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The State of Queensland () 2017 PO Box 307 Spring Hill QLD 4004 Australia 154 Melbourne Street, South Brisbane Phone: (07) 3864 0299 Email: office@qcaa.qld.edu.au Website: www.qcaa.qld.edu.au
Contents General information 1 Who sits the Senior External Examination?... 1 Subject examinations in 2017... 1 2017 examination timetable 2 Language subjects... 2 Non-language subjects... 3 Closing dates... 3 Examination registration 4 Year 12 student registration... 4 Adult student registration... 5 Special provision... 6 Changing registration details... 6 Registration fee refunds... 6 Sitting examinations outside Queensland... 7 Learning account... 7 Examination information pack... 7 Teaching centres 8 Resource materials 8 Syllabuses... 8 Assessment reports and past papers... 9 Subject notices... 9 Subject-specific information... 9 Sitting an examination 14 Timetable...14 Candidate identification requirements...14 Examination centres...14 QCAA-approved examination equipment...15 After the examination 16 Special consideration of examination scripts...16 Assessment...16 Certification...17 Application for reassessment of examination scripts...18 Application for script inspection...18 Reviewing a QCAA decision 19 Price list 19 Appendix A: Special provision 20 Definitions used in special provision...23 Appendix B: Examination rules 24
General information This handbook sets out the policies and procedures for the Senior External Examination, which consists of 21 individual subject examinations provided across Queensland in October and November each year by the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA). An external syllabus sets out the aims, objectives, learning experiences and assessment requirements for each examination subject. Results are based solely on candidates demonstrated achievement in examinations. Work undertaken before an examination is not assessed. This is different from externally moderated school-based assessment (the system for senior students in Queensland secondary schools), where judgements are based on demonstrated achievement in tasks set and assessed by teachers within schools. QCAA provides the Senior External Examination as required by the Education (Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority) Act 2014 (the Act) and the Education (Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority) Regulation 2014 (the Regulation). Download the Act and Regulation from www.legislation.qld.gov.au/oqpchome.htm. Contact details Phone: (07) 3864 0408 Email: externalexams@qcaa.qld.edu.au Who sits the Senior External Examination? The Senior External Examination is for: Year 12 students enrolled at a Queensland secondary school who are unable to study particular subjects at their school adult students (Queensland residents of any age not enrolled at a Queensland secondary school) to meet tertiary entrance or employment requirements to satisfy personal interest. Subject examinations in 2017 Accounting Ancient History Arabic Biology Chemistry Chinese English Korean Legal Studies Mathematics A Mathematics B Modern Greek Modern History Philosophy & Reason Physics Polish Punjabi Russian Spanish Vietnamese Visual Art Page 1 of 24
2017 examination timetable Language subjects Each examination consists of an oral component and a written component. Candidates must sit both components. Oral component (Speaking) Candidates within 100 kilometres of Brisbane CBD Subject Date Details Arabic Korean Russian Spanish Vietnamese Chinese All other candidates Saturday 14 October Saturday 21 October Subject Date Details Arabic Chinese Korean Modern Greek Polish Punjabi Russian Spanish Vietnamese Early November Each candidate will be individually assessed by a marker at a central Brisbane venue. The venue address and assessment time will be sent to each candidate in mid-september. Each candidate will be individually assessed by a marker via telephone at their school. The assessment date and time will be sent to each candidate in mid-september. Written component (Reading, Writing and Listening) All candidates Subject Date Time Korean Tuesday 17 October 9 am to 11:15 am Vietnamese Tuesday 17 October 1 pm to 3:15 pm Arabic Wednesday 18 October 1 pm to 3:15 pm Polish Punjabi Russian Wednesday 18 October 1 pm to 3:40 pm Chinese Monday 23 October 9 am to 12:25 pm 1:15 pm to 2:15 pm (Reading and Writing) (Listening) Modern Greek Monday 20 November 10:45 am to 1:00 pm Spanish Tuesday 21 November 10:45 am to 1:00 pm Page 2 of 24
Non-language subjects Each examination consists of two papers. Candidates must sit both Paper One and Paper Two. Subject Date Paper One Paper Two Visual Art Thursday 19 October 9 am to 1:10 pm 2:15 pm to 4:25 pm Biology Friday 20 October 9 am to 11:40 am 1 pm to 3:10 pm English Tuesday 24 October 9 am to 12:10 pm 1:15 pm to 4:25 pm Mathematics A Thursday 26 October 9 am to 12:10 pm 1:15 pm to 4:25 pm Chemistry Friday 27 October 9 am to 11:40 am 1 pm to 3:10 pm Mathematics B Monday 30 October 9 am to 12:10 pm 1:15 pm to 4:25 pm Legal Studies Tuesday 31 October 9 am to 11:40 am 1 pm to 4:10 pm Physics Thursday 2 November 9 am to 11:40 am 1 pm to 3:10 pm Philosophy & Reason Friday 3 November 9 am to 12:10 pm 1:15 pm to 4:25 pm Modern History Monday 6 November 9 am to 11:40 am 1 pm to 3:40 pm Accounting Wednesday 8 November 9 am to 12:10 pm 1:15 pm to 4:25 pm Ancient History Thursday 9 November 9 am to 11:40 am 1 pm to 3:40 pm Closing dates Date Sunday 30 April Thursday 30 June Wednesday 31 August For Year 12 student examination registration forms Adult student examination registration forms and payments Applications for special provision Applications from registered candidates to sit outside Queensland Page 3 of 24
Examination registration Year 12 student registration QCAA will publish a memo about the eligibility and registration process in early February with the following attachments: Registration form School contact/principal s declaration Timetable Guide for Year 12 students. Eligibility Year 12 students must register for examinations through their secondary school. The school principal will determine eligibility based on the information in QCAA s memo. A Year 12 student can sit a maximum of two subject examinations. Tuition Students must obtain appropriate tuition in examination subjects. They must discuss tuition arrangements with school staff at the start of the school year. Tuition may be available from their secondary school, an after-hours language school, a teaching centre or a tutor. Secondary schools must monitor their students progress. Registration closing date and fees Registration forms are due by 30 April 2017. The registration fee is $61.15 per subject. QCAA will invoice schools for payment in late May. Registrations received after 30 April will not be accepted unless there are exceptional and unavoidable circumstances. If a late registration is accepted, the fee will be $67.10 per subject. When QCAA processes a registration QCAA may contact the candidate or staff at their school to discuss the registration. When QCAA approves a registration: a Registration notice will be sent to the candidate via their secondary school a list of registered candidates will be sent to each school. Page 4 of 24
Adult student registration Eligibility Students who will be 17 years or older by the end of 2017 These students do not have to apply for eligibility and may sit as many subjects as they wish. Students who will be 16 years or younger by the end of 2017 If students have previously completed Year 12 and received a Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE), they do not have to apply for eligibility, and may sit as many subjects as they wish. All other students aged 16 years or younger must apply for eligibility. If eligible, they can sit a maximum of three subjects in one year. The Examination eligibility form is available at www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/see/forms-handbook. Complete online and email to QCAA. When QCAA processes an eligibility application QCAA may contact the student, staff at their teaching centre or other relevant people if more information is required. QCAA will notify the student and teaching centre of the outcome. Tuition Although adult students can sit examinations without tuition, QCAA recommends that they obtain tuition to maximise their chances of success. Students can study at an examination teaching centre, with a private tutor or independently. How to register for an examination The Examination registration form is available at www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/see/formshandbook from 1 June 2017. Complete online during June and email to QCAA. Registration closing date and fees Registration forms and fees are due by 30 June 2017. The registration fee is $61.15 per subject. Registrations received after 30 June will not be accepted unless there are exceptional and unavoidable circumstances. If a late registration is accepted, the fee will be $67.10 per subject. When QCAA processes a registration QCAA may contact the candidate, staff at their teaching centre (if applicable) or other relevant people to discuss the registration. When QCAA approves a registration, a Registration notice will be sent to the candidate. QCAA will send each teaching centre a list of registered students from that centre. Page 5 of 24
Special provision QCAA may approve special provision for candidates with a recognised disability, injury or medical condition that could affect their examination performance. For example, QCAA may approve extra time for a candidate with a broken wrist, or enlarged examination materials for a candidate with vision impairment. See Appendix A: Special provision on page 20 for more information. Applying for special provision The application form is available from www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/see/forms-handbook from 1 June 2017. The application must include a copy of relevant documentation, e.g. a medical report. This evidence must describe the candidate s disability, injury or medical condition and explain how it will affect the candidate s performance during each examination. Email the completed form and supporting documents to QCAA. Applications close 31 August 2017. QCAA will only approve late applications under exceptional circumstances. When QCAA processes an application for special provision QCAA may contact the candidate, staff at the candidate s teaching or examination centre or other relevant people to discuss the application. Changing registration details Candidates whose registration details have changed must notify QCAA by email at externalexams@qcaa.qld.edu.au. Changes include updating your contact details, or adding or withdrawing a subject. When QCAA processes an application to update details QCAA will send a Confirmation of updated details to the candidate. Registration fee refunds Refunds for examination withdrawals A candidate may withdraw their examination registration/s at any time. QCAA will refund the fees paid, less an administration fee of $16.65, for withdrawals received by the following dates: Year 12 candidates 31 May 2017 Adult candidates 31 July 2017. Fee refunds are by electronic funds transfer (EFT) or to a credit card. Refunds for medical reasons Applications for refunds for medical reasons close one month after the examination date. The application must include a medical certificate. If approved, QCAA will refund the fees paid less an administration fee of $16.65. Fee refunds are by electronic funds transfer (EFT) or to a credit card. Page 6 of 24
Sitting examinations outside Queensland In certain circumstances, QCAA may allow a registered candidate living in Queensland to sit an examination outside Queensland. Additional fees are payable to cover administration, and courier costs. Candidates must contact QCAA by email at externalexams@qcaa.qld.edu.au as soon as possible to discuss their situation and obtain an application form. Applications close 31 August 2017. Learning account Following registration approval, QCAA will open a learning account for any candidate who does not already have one. The learning account records results of any completed studies that may lead to a QCE, including Senior External Examination results. Candidates can access their learning account using their Learner Unique Identifier (LUI) and password on QCAA s Student Connect website at https://studentconnect.qcaa.qld.edu.au. Results will be available in candidates learning accounts from the following dates: adult candidates 5 December 2017 Year 12 candidates 15 December 2017. Information about the QCE is available from www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/certificatesqualifications/qce. Examination information pack In mid-september, QCAA will send each candidate an examination information pack containing: a Candidate identification form general examination information subject-specific information, including details of oral assessment for language examination candidates. The examination centre shown on the Candidate identification form may differ from the proposed examination centre listed on the Registration notice. Page 7 of 24
Teaching centres Teaching centres and subjects offered as at Teaching centres Subjects offered Accounting Ancient History Biology Chemistry English Legal Studies Mathematics A Mathematics B Modern History Philosophy & Reason Physics Visual Art The Coorparoo Centre for Continuing Secondary Education (Coorparoo CCSE) Cnr Stanley Street East & Cavendish Road Coorparoo Qld 4151 Phone: (07) 3394 8888 Email: admin@coorparoosecondarycollege.eq.edu.au Website: www.coorparooccse.eq.edu.au Heatley Secondary College Fulham Road and Hanlon Street Heatley Qld 4814 Phone: (07) 4726 8309 Email: hasc@heatleyshs.eq.edu.au Website: www.heatleyshs.eq.edu.au Hubbard s School (independent non-state school) Level 1, 15 Lang Parade Milton Qld 4064 Phone: (07) 3371 5999 Email: admin@hubbards.qld.edu.au Website: www.hubbards.qld.edu.au Resource materials QCAA does not provide teaching or course materials for external examination subjects. The resources described below are available from the Senior External Examination section of QCAA s website: www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/see/subject-resources. Candidates should ensure that the resources used, especially syllabuses, are those developed for the Senior External Examination. Syllabuses An external examination syllabus sets out the aims, objectives, learning experiences and assessment requirements for each subject. QCAA provides copies of syllabuses to teaching centres at no cost. Page 8 of 24
Assessment reports and past papers By the end of February each year, QCAA publishes an assessment report for most subjects about the previous year s examination. The report may contain comments on overall candidate performance and sample solutions/responses to questions. Examination papers are generally similar in structure from year to year, although they may vary within the requirements of the syllabus. Subject notices During the year, QCAA publishes notices for each subject about this year s examination in addition to the information provided in each syllabus. QCAA notifies teaching centres when it publishes subject notices on its website. QCAA sends subject notices to candidates in mid-september as part of their Examination information pack. Subject-specific information Accounting This year s examination is based on the Accounting Senior External Syllabus 2007. Paper Two will be an open-book examination; candidates are permitted to bring any relevant paper-based written or printed material into the examination room. Prepared task Candidates will be required to complete a prepared task during the year. The task will cover Accounting package and either Budgeting Cash Budgets or Analysis and interpretation of accounting reports. QCAA will publish information about the task in a subject notice in July. Ancient History This year s examination is based on the Ancient History Senior External Syllabus 2008 (amended 2015). QCAA will publish a selection of the historical sources to be used for Paper Two in a subject notice by mid-september. Arabic This year s examination is based on the Arabic Senior External Syllabus 2009 (amended 2012). The examination consists of an oral and a written component. Candidates must sit both components to obtain a level of achievement. An examiner will assess the oral component either in person or by phone. It is timetabled for a different day from the written component and may be conducted at a different examination centre. Biology This year s examination is based on the Biology Senior External Syllabus 2006. QCAA will publish the Evaluating Biological Issues (EBI) question topics in a subject notice in August. Although candidates will not have access to text materials during the examination, they may be required to bring in specific/experimental results for deeper analysis. Page 9 of 24
Chemistry This year s examination is based on the Chemistry Senior External Syllabus 1998 (amended 2006). Paper Two will be an open-book examination; candidates may bring any relevant paper-based written or printed material into the examination room. Chinese This year s examination is based on the Chinese Senior External Syllabus 2007 (amended 2012). The examination consists of an oral and a written component. Candidates must sit both components to obtain a level of achievement. Candidates must be familiar with simplified characters, as the characters used for recognition are the simplified forms officially adopted by China. While the use of simplified characters is preferred in responses, candidates may use full-form (traditional) characters without penalty. Use of the character style selected (either simplified or full-form) should be consistent in all responses. An examiner will assess the oral component either in person or by phone. It will be timetabled on a different day from the written component and may be conducted at a different examination centre. QCAA will publish information about the oral component in a subject notice in mid- September. English This year s examination is based on the English Senior External Syllabus 2004. QCAA will publish information about the format of question papers, genres and forms of writing, and the notified poems for 2017 in a subject notice in February/March. Paper One Responses to literature In Paper One Part A, Question 1, tasks requiring an imaginative response to literature will be based on drama selections. In Paper One Part B, Question 2, tasks requiring a persuasive/reflective response to literature will be based on novel selections. Refer to pages 17 to 19 of the syllabus for further information. Page 10 of 24
Korean This year s examination is based on the Korean Senior External Syllabus 2008 (amended 2012). The examination consists of an oral and a written component. Candidates must sit both components to obtain a level of achievement. An examiner will assess the oral component either in person or by phone. It will be timetabled on a different day from the written component and may be conducted at a different examination centre. Legal Studies This year s examination is based on the Legal Studies Senior External Syllabus 2007 (amended 2009). Nominated topics The two nominated topics from You, the Law and Society to be studied are Family and Sport. Prepared research task Candidates will be required to complete a prepared research task during the year. QCAA will publish information about the task in a subject notice in April. Mathematics A This year s examination is based on the Mathematics A Senior External Syllabus 2006. A non-programmable calculator is required. An additional graphing calculator is optional. QCAA does not allow calculators with computer algebra system (CAS) functionality. Mathematics B This year s examination is based on the Mathematics B Senior External Syllabus 2006. A graphing calculator is required. QCAA recommends that candidates also take a nonprogrammable calculator into the examination room. QCAA does not allow calculators with computer algebra system (CAS) functionality. Modern Greek This year s examination is based on the Modern Greek Senior External Syllabus 2008 (amended 2012). The examination consists of an oral and a written component. Candidates must sit both components to obtain a level of achievement. An examiner will assess the oral component by phone. It will be timetabled on a different day from the written component. Modern History This year s examination is based on the Modern History Senior External Syllabus 2008. QCAA will publish a selection of the historical sources to be used for Paper Two in a subject notice by mid-september. Philosophy & Reason This year s examination is based on the Philosophy & Reason Senior External Syllabus 2004. Page 11 of 24
Physics This year s examination is based on the Physics Senior External Syllabus 2000 (amended 2003). Paper Two will be an open-book examination; candidates may bring any relevant paper-based written or printed material into the examination room. A graphing calculator is required. QCAA recommends that candidates also take a nonprogrammable calculator into the examination room. Polish This year s examination is based on the Polish Senior External Syllabus 2008 (amended 2012). The examination consists of an oral and a written component. Candidates must sit both components to obtain a level of achievement. An examiner will assess the oral component either in person or by phone. It will be timetabled on a different day from the written component and may be conducted at a different examination centre. Punjabi This year s examination is based on the Punjabi Senior External Syllabus 2012. The examination consists of an oral and a written component. Candidates must sit both components to obtain a level of achievement. An examiner will assess the oral component either in person or by phone. It will be timetabled on a different day from the written component and may be conducted at a different examination centre. Russian This year s examination is based on the Russian Senior External Syllabus 2008 (amended 2012). The examination consists of an oral and a written component. Candidates must sit both components to obtain a level of achievement. An examiner will assess the oral component either in person or by phone. It will be timetabled on a different day from the written component and may be conducted at a different examination centre. Spanish This year s examination is based on the Spanish Senior External Syllabus 2008 (amended 2012). The examination consists of an oral and a written component. Candidates must sit both components to obtain a level of achievement. An examiner will assess the oral component either in person or by phone. It will be timetabled on a different day from the written component and may be conducted at a different examination centre. Vietnamese This year s examination is based on the Vietnamese Senior External Syllabus 2008 (amended 2012). The examination consists of an oral and a written component. Candidates must sit both components to obtain a level of achievement. Page 12 of 24
An examiner will assess the oral component either in person or by phone. It will be timetabled on a different day from the written component and may be conducted at a different examination centre. Visual Art This year s examination is based on the Visual Art Senior External Syllabus 2006. The Making and Appraising concept for 2017 is Mapping. Candidates should interpret the concept in a variety of ways and study it across a range of social, cultural and historical contexts. For the making component, candidates should explore possible interpretations of the concept using media and techniques of their choice. For the appraising component, candidates should explore a variety of artworks (and related movements, forms and styles) that reflect interpretations of the concept. Candidates could base possible interpretations on the following starting points to make an artwork that explores the superfluous and the values held by wants and necessity. Candidates could make and appraise artworks that explore: journeys through images and objects that visually represent the pathways people travel and encounter landscapes that investigate the physical and metaphoric environment generations to investigate personal family histories and cultural connections. Concepts are organisers that direct candidates learning and integrate making and appraising. A concept should engage a candidate in learning experiences that allow them to develop their own focuses for artworks. Focuses are individual pathways that define interpretations and responses to a concept and explore the boundaries between the subject and the viewer. Candidates should document their interpretations and research with references to artworks, artists and images that have influenced them or directed their thinking. Candidates should also document the direction they have taken and visually explain their interpretation of the concept and their focus. Candidates should collect and develop these materials and store them in the resource container provided in mid-september. Candidates sitting the examination overseas must observe quarantine restrictions. Page 13 of 24
Sitting an examination Timetable Each subject examination is held only once, in October or November, on the date and at the time indicated on the year s timetable (see 2017 examination timetable on pages 2 and 3). If a candidate misses a written examination for any reason, they will be unable to sit the examination later or sit an alternative examination. If a language examination candidate misses an oral/speaking component, they may apply for it to be rescheduled. Candidates must provide documentary evidence with the application that demonstrates unforeseeable and exceptional circumstances. QCAA will not reschedule an oral/speaking component that a candidate could reasonably have attended. QCAA does not approve special consideration for a candidate who misreads the timetable. Candidate identification requirements In mid-september, candidates will receive a Candidate identification form from QCAA. They must take the identification form and photographic identification (such as their driver licence or student card) to every examination session. QCAA may prohibit a candidate who is unable to prove their identity from sitting an examination. Examination centres Candidate type Year 12 candidates Adult candidates Examination centre details Candidates sit examinations at their secondary school. QCAA may conduct the oral components of language examinations at a different venue. A list of the main examination centres is included with registration information published in June each year. Candidates must sit their examinations at the centre shown on their Candidate identification form. Arrival at an examination centre Examination supervisors will admit candidates to examination rooms approximately 10 minutes before examination sessions commence. Candidates who arrive after an examination session has commenced will be admitted only with the supervisor s permission. A candidate who arrives more than one hour after the beginning of the examination session may be refused permission to sit the examination. Refused entry to an examination Only candidates listed on the subject examination s attendance roll and supervisors are permitted in an examination room, unless authorised by QCAA. Supervisors may refuse to allow a candidate into an examination room if they: had an opportunity to cheat while outside the examination room attempt to bring unauthorised material into an examination refuse to comply with supervisors instructions arrive more than one hour after the commencement of an examination. Page 14 of 24
Expulsion from an examination Supervisors may expel a candidate suspected of misconduct from an examination room. Misconduct includes: gaining prior access to examination content copying from, or communicating with, another candidate bringing unauthorised material into an examination room disturbing other candidates impersonating a candidate. The examination rules are in Appendix B: Examination rules on page 24. QCAA-approved examination equipment All equipment must be in a clear container. Candidates may take only the following equipment into the examination room: materials/equipment listed in subject notices (available at www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/see/subject-resources) pens, pencils, highlighters, ruler, slide rule eraser, correction fluid calculator (see restrictions in the table below) magnifying glasses, earplugs equipment allowed as a QCAA-approved special provision. QCAA does not allow mobile phones, smart watches or any other electronic devices into examination rooms. Candidates are permitted to bring water in a clear bottle without labels. Food is not allowed into examination rooms unless approved as a special provision. Calculators Calculators must be battery or solar powered. QCAA does not allow calculators that attach to a printer or have spellcheck, dictionary or translation functions. Subject Accounting Biology Chemistry Philosophy & Reason Calculator restrictions Non-programmable calculator only Mathematics A Required: Non-programmable calculator Optional: Graphics calculator Not allowed: Calculators with computer algebra system (CAS) functionality Mathematics B Required: Graphics calculator Optional: Non-programmable calculator Not allowed: Calculators with computer algebra system (CAS) functionality Physics Required: Graphics calculator Recommended: Non-programmable calculator Page 15 of 24
Dictionaries QCAA allows monolingual and/or bilingual printed dictionaries in all language subjects except Chinese. Candidates cannot use electronic dictionaries. QCAA allows dictionaries in other subjects only as an approved special provision. After the examination Special consideration of examination scripts A candidate who believes that illness, injury or some other relevant factor may have impaired their examination performance can apply for special consideration of their examination scripts. QCAA does not accept applications for special consideration before the day of the examination. The candidate should tell the examination supervisor about their illness/injury if appropriate. Although supervisors cannot grant special consideration, the supervisor s report may support the candidate s application. Coursework assessments, such as assignments and tests conducted by teaching centres, have no influence on the judgement of achievement. Candidates inability to attend tuition before the examination or their missing an examination for any reason cannot be taken into consideration. Privacy of applications QCAA keeps application details confidential. Results statements do not include any reference to special consideration. Applications The application form is available from www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/see/forms-handbook from late October. The application must include a copy of any relevant written evidence, e.g. a medical certificate. This evidence must describe the reason for the candidate s application and explain how the candidate s examination performance was affected. Applications close seven days after the examination has been administered. When QCAA processes an application for special consideration of examination scripts QCAA may contact a candidate s teaching centre and/or examination centre or other relevant people to discuss the application. QCAA will acknowledge applications by email. QCAA will send each application to the relevant chief examiner. Assessment of a candidate s examination scripts will be based only on the standard of work demonstrated in the examination. Judgement of a candidate s achievement cannot be based on the candidate s potential or on a standard of work that has not been demonstrated. Assessment Each subject has a chief examiner who is responsible for the marking of examination scripts for the subject. The chief examiner selects qualified and experienced markers, develops marking schemes, trains markers and awards a level of achievement to each candidate based on how well the candidate s responses meet the syllabus criteria and standards for the subject. Page 16 of 24
Certification QCAA reports the grade achieved by each candidate for a subject as one of five levels of achievement: Very High Achievement High Achievement Sound Achievement Limited Achievement Very Limited Achievement. There are no pass or fail grades, nor are results recorded as numbers, marks or percentages. QCAA does not publish results on its website or in newspapers. Notification of results Candidate type Year 12 candidates Notification method Results will be included with the candidate s school results on the Senior Statement posted to each candidate on 15 December 2017. Results will also be available from 16 December in candidates learning accounts. Adult candidates QCAA will post a Statement of Results to each candidate on 5 December 2017. Results will also be available from that date in candidates learning accounts (under QCE Planner). Candidates can access their learning account using their LUI and password on QCAA s Student Connect website at https://studentconnect.qcaa.qld.edu.au. Request for a replacement results statement QCAA will issue a replacement results statement if the original document is lost or damaged. Information on how to request a replacement statement is available on QCAA s website at www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/certificates-qualifications/reissue-certificates. Refusal to award a level of achievement QCAA may refuse to award a level of achievement if it suspects misconduct. If QCAA decides to refuse to award a level of achievement, it will notify the candidate in writing (a show-cause notice) and ask the candidate to respond in writing within 14 days. Following consideration of the response, QCAA will notify the candidate in writing of its decision. Your results and the QCE Candidates may be able to use Senior External Examination results to gain a QCE. A Sound Achievement or better in a subject examination may provide four credits towards the QCE. Further information about the QCE is available at www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/certificatesqualifications/qce. Page 17 of 24
Your results and tertiary entrance QCAA sends all examination results to the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC). Enquiries about tertiary selection and courses should be directed to the tertiary centre concerned or to QTAC on 1300 467 822 or at www.qtac.edu.au. Candidate type Year 12 candidates Adult candidates How results are used For eligible candidates, examination results are included in the calculation of an Overall Position (OP) and Field Positions (FPs). Each external subject provides the equivalent of four semester units of credit. If a Year 12 candidate sits the same examination subject in consecutive years, QCAA uses the most recent result for OP and FP calculations. Achievement in examination subjects contributes to the calculation of OPs and FPs in the same way as achievement in internally assessed Authority subjects. QTAC will allocate a selection rank to a candidate who applies for tertiary entrance in Queensland. Adult candidates do not obtain an OP or FPs. Application for reassessment of examination scripts A candidate may apply to have their examination scripts reassessed. The application form is available at www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/see/forms-handbook from early December. Complete online and email to QCAA. The fee per subject is $25.55. Applications close 8 January 2018. Reassessment may decrease, confirm or upgrade the level of achievement awarded. When QCAA processes an application for reassessment QCAA will advise the candidate of the outcome of the reassessment by mid-january 2018. If the subject chief examiner decreases or upgrades the level of achievement awarded, QCAA will: send the candidate a new results statement inform QTAC of the upgraded level of achievement refund the reassessment fee if the level of achievement is upgraded. Application for script inspection A candidate may apply to inspect their examination scripts. The application form is available at www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/see/forms-handbook from early December. Complete online and email to QCAA. The fee per subject is $16.65. Applications close 8 January 2018. Script inspections take place during January 2018 at a QCAA office. The candidate is the only person allowed to inspect their scripts, and must produce photographic identification (such as their driver licence or student card) before they inspect their scripts. It is an examination registration condition that candidate examination scripts become QCAA property. The candidate cannot copy, write on or remove their scripts, or use the process of inspection to contest the level of achievement awarded. QCAA staff members are unable to discuss the assessment of scripts. Scripts do not generally show markers annotations or comments. When QCAA processes an application for script inspection QCAA will contact the candidate to arrange an appointment time and location for the inspection and will confirm these arrangements in writing. If QCAA cannot arrange a script inspection, it will refund the fee. Page 18 of 24
Reviewing a QCAA decision Under Part 5 of the Education (Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority) Act 2014, a person may request an internal review of QCAA's decision in relation to the following circumstances: an application for eligibility to sit an external examination an application to take an external examination an application to take more external examinations than allowed under the legislation refusal to decide a level of achievement for an external examination subject deciding a level of achievement for an external examination subject following a reassessment an application to take the test at a venue other than those specified in the guideline an application to take an examination under special arrangements to account for a disability or medical condition. A person may request an internal review in writing within 14 days of receiving QCAA s information notice outlining the decision or becoming aware of QCAA s decision. The request for an internal review must state the grounds for the review in full. QCAA will appoint an internal review officer to conduct the review. This officer will not have been involved in making the original decision. The internal review officer will make their decision based on the material that led to the original decision and the reasons for the original decision, and will give the applicant a reasonable opportunity to make oral or written submissions. Within 21 days of receiving the request, QCAA will provide the person with a notice outlining its decision in relation to the internal review. If the person is not satisfied with the internal review decision, they may apply to the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal for an external review. Price list Item Examination registration fee Late examination registration fee (for registrations after closing date) Cost $61.15 per subject $67.10 per subject Administration fee (retained if a fee is refunded) $16.65 Local expenses fee for a registered candidate to sit examinations outside Queensland Contact QCAA for details Script reassessment fee $25.55* Script inspection fee $16.65* Examination syllabuses and past examination papers Assessment reports, subject notices and language subject listening MP3 files Free on website Free on website * Includes GST Page 19 of 24
Appendix A: Special provision QCAA may approve special provision for a candidate with a recognised disability, injury or medical condition that would affect their examination performance if they were to sit an examination under standard conditions. The table below lists special provisions that QCAA may approve. Clarification of some of the terms used in the table is in Definitions used in special provision on page 23. Note: Current medical report means documentation from registered medical practitioners that is less than 12 months old, except where indicated. Application reason Attention deficit disorder (ADD) or Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (see also Medication side effects) Autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) Bereavement (see also Medication side effects) Diabetes Epilepsy (see also Medication side effects) Hearing impairment Minimum documentation current medical report (up to three years old) current medical report (up to three years old) funeral notice or death certificate current medical report (up to three years old) current medical report (up to three years old) current medical or audiology report showing degree and type of hearing loss Possible special arrangements use of a computer without spellcheck extra time and/or rest breaks use of a computer without spellcheck extra time and/or rest breaks rest breaks permission to take equipment, medication, food and liquids into the examination room to test and maintain blood glucose levels extra time and/or rest breaks rest breaks if a seizure occurs during an examination examination instructions in writing Hospitalisation current medical report in hospital (dependent on hospital approval) extra time and/or rest breaks Illegible handwriting letter of support from teaching centre use of a computer without spellcheck Page 20 of 24
Application reason Illness infectious e.g. glandular fever, chicken pox, measles (see also Medication side effects) Illness non-infectious e.g. chronic fatigue syndrome, migraine (see also Medication side effects) Medication side effects i.e. candidate is taking medication or undergoing treatment that may cause drowsiness and/or the inability to concentrate during the examination, e.g. medication for depression, ADHD, epilepsy, prescribed pain medication, cancer therapies Neurological impairment or difficulty e.g. acquired brain injury, cerebral aneurysm, cerebral tumour English as an additional language or dialect (EALD) Psychological or emotional impairment or difficulty e.g. panic/anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), inability to concentrate during examination, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) (see also Medication side effects) Minimum documentation current medical report current medical report current medical report listing medication and side effects current medical report (up to three years old) Both of the following: letter of support from teaching centre documentary evidence of entry into Australia current medical or psychological report Possible special arrangements home (severe cases only) or separate permission to stand and stretch extra time and/or rest breaks permission to stand and stretch extra time and/or rest breaks permission to stand and stretch permission to take medication and food into the examination room extra time and/or rest breaks wheelchair access access to toilet facilities permission to stand and stretch use of a computer without spellcheck extra time and/or rest breaks use of bilingual dictionary in all language subjects except Chinese (refer to Dictionaries on page 16) Note: Extra time or rest breaks will not be approved. easy access to toilet facilities permission to stand and stretch permission to take medication and food into the examination room rest breaks Page 21 of 24
Application reason Physical impairment through illness e.g. arthritis, back/spine injury, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, paraplegia, impaired motor skills, low muscle tone (see also Medication side effects) Physical impairment through injury e.g. significant injury to arm or hand leading up to the examination Pregnancy-related conditions Specific learning difficulty (SPLD) e.g. dyslexia, processing difficulty or disorder, reading and/or writing difficulty/disorder Speech language impairment (SLI) Visual impairment/difficulty e.g. colour blindness, scotopic sensitivity Minimum documentation current medical report (up to three years old) current medical report current medical report current medical report current medical or speech therapist report current medical or optometrist report (up to three years old) Possible special arrangements access to toilet facilities wheelchair access use of special seating and/or desk permission to lie down permission to stand and stretch permission to take medication and food into the examination room use of a computer without spellcheck enlarged examination materials extra time and/or rest breaks permission to stand and stretch use of a computer without spellcheck extra time and/or rest breaks access to toilet facilities use of special seating permission to stand and stretch permission to take medication and food into the examination room extra time and/or rest breaks use of a computer without spellcheck extra time and/or rest breaks Note: Use of a dictionary, reader or scribe will not be approved. examination instructions in writing extra time Note: Use of a dictionary, reader or scribe will not be approved. adapted examination materials transparency overlay use of special seating and/or desk use of a computer without spellcheck large-print examination materials low-vision aids additional lighting extra time and/or rest breaks Page 22 of 24
Definitions used in special provision Provision Adapted examination materials Enlarged examination materials Extra time Rest breaks Seating out of order Separate/small group Special equipment Use of a computer Use of a dictionary Definition Adapted materials will be provided if required, and can include enlarged materials and/or black-and-white materials. Where colour perception is an issue, an adapted version of the appropriate pages of the examination paper will be provided where possible. If a candidate is approved the use of adapted examination materials, they will be supplied with a standard version of the examination materials in addition to the adapted version. The standard enlargement is from A4 to A3 size (141% enlargement). Any stimulus material that would be affected (such as a scaled diagram) will be modified to compensate for the enlargement. Font enlargement occurs in enlarging from A4 to A3 size paper. The average font size in A4 size format is 11.5 pt. Examination materials are printed on matt-finish paper. Extra time is additional working time in an examination session. The standard amount of extra time approved is 10 minutes per hour. In exceptional circumstances, QCAA may approve up to 20 minutes per hour. The candidate may use extra time in part or in full. A candidate may use rest breaks to stop work and relax, use previously learned coping strategies, focus their thoughts or think about their responses. Rest breaks cannot be used as extra working/writing time. The standard amount of time approved for rest breaks is 10 minutes per hour. In exceptional circumstances, QCAA may approve up to 20 minutes per hour. A candidate may take rest breaks in part or in full at any time during the examination session. A candidate will not be seated in alphabetical order. They will be in a room with other candidates, seated at the front or back, near a door or window or separated by screens. A candidate will be supervised in a separate room individually or in a small group. A candidate who has approval to use special equipment must confirm the arrangements for use of the equipment with the examination centre prior to the examination. Use of a computer allows a candidate to type responses. Examination materials will not be supplied electronically. If a candidate has been approved use of a computer, the following procedures apply: the examination centre is to supply the computer spellcheck, voice-recognition technology or similar language-enhancement facilities are not permitted (programs that do not have spellcheck include Microsoft Notepad and Microsoft WordPad) the examination centre is to provide the candidate with the standard version of the examination materials the candidate is to decide whether it is appropriate to generate a particular response using the computer, e.g. for questions that require the candidate to sketch, draw or plot a graph at the end of the examination session, the candidate s work must be printed and stapled inside their response book, and then deleted from the computer. Approval required For candidates from a non English-speaking background, QCAA may approve the use of a printed bilingual dictionary in Accounting, Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Visual Art. No approval required Candidates are allowed a dictionary in all language subjects except Chinese. Dictionaries must be printed and can be monolingual and/or bilingual. Electronic dictionaries are not permitted. Page 23 of 24
Appendix B: Examination rules You must: comply with supervisors directions enter the examination room only when told to do so turn off mobile phones before entering the examination room take only QCAA-approved equipment into the examination room sit at the desk provided for you put your personal belongings (bags, mobile phones, unauthorised books, etc.) where directed by the supervisor follow the directions given on examination materials raise your hand if you need to speak to a supervisor ensure that your conduct is appropriate. Examples of misconduct include: - deliberately creating a disturbance that disrupts other candidates - unauthorised writing during perusal time or after the examination has finished. You must not: talk to or communicate in any way with other candidates after you have entered the examination room ask a supervisor to explain or interpret a question give material or equipment to other candidates remove any response books/sheets from an examination room cheat, which includes: - gaining prior access to examination content - bringing unauthorised material and/or equipment into the examination room - copying from another candidate - impersonating a candidate. If you disobey any of the examination rules, QCAA may not award a level of achievement. Page 24 of 24