Q1. As part of the drive to improve standards, all schools are required to report on the progress of pupils with SEN and to set appropriate targets using the P scales where appropriate.

Q2. P scales are a set of performance descriptions for measuring the progress of pupils for whom the early levels of the National Curriculum are not appropriate.

Q3. P scales have been written for use with pupils of all ages.

Q4. P scales have been written solely for use with pupils who have profound and multiple learning difficulties.

Q5. P scales may be used to show that pupils with SEN are making progress.

Q6. P scales are a framework for making staff and schools accountable for effectiveness.

Q7. P scales may be used to set meaningful performance targets for pupils with SEN as part of the school improvement cycle.

Q8. P scales may be used for summative assessments of pupils with SEN.

Q9. The p scales assess only selected part of the programmes of study.

Q10. P scales range from P1 to P9

Q11. The first three P levels are common to all subjects and describe general attainment.

Q12. The P scale descriptors are quite broad and multi-faceted and teachers have to make a ‘best fit’ judgment when applying them to pupils

Q13. P scales have been developed to assess performance in English, maths and science only.

Q14. P scales are useful in planning a meaningful curriculum and providing evidence of attainment which will inform both the IEP and annual review.

Q15. P scales provide ready-made IEP targets.

Q16. The P scales can be viewed as an alternative curriculum.

Q17. The P scales link into the National Curriculum and the national literacy and numeracy frameworks.

Q18. The P scales offer a standardised framework for setting targets; the statistical data generated will allow comparison both within and between schools.

Q19. P scales are only a partial measure of what pupils can learn.

Q20. P scales support both the spirit and concept of inclusion by means of a process which potentially gives higher status and recognition of the achievements of all pupils in school, including those with SEN.

Q21. P scales can be used as a tool for identifying or labelling pupil’s SEN.

Q22. P scales do not meet all assessment needs.

Q23. There are no expectations of ‘typical’ P scale progress.

Q24. Observation and annotation play a key role in evidencing P scale progress.

Q25. The level W must still be reported with the KS1 results.