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The Grade 10 & 12 Literacy/Numeracy Assessments: What Parents Need to Know


Navigating the BC graduation landscape can feel like a full-time job for parents. With the shift away from traditional provincial exams, the new Graduation Numeracy Assessment (GNA) and Graduation Literacy Assessment (GLA) have raised many questions about what actually counts for your child's future.

Does the Numeracy Assessment matter for University?

Currently, for most Canadian universities, the score on the Numeracy Assessment (GNA 10) does not impact competitive admission averages. Top-tier institutions like SFU, the University of Victoria, and the University of Toronto only require that the assessment be completed as a mandatory part of the high school diploma. The significant exception is the University of British Columbia (UBC), which requires students to achieve a "Proficient" level (Level 3 or 4) on the Grade 12 Literacy Assessment (GLA 12) to maintain their offer of admission. While the GNA 10 score isn't a primary factor for admissions today, it remains a mandatory requirement to graduate with a Dogwood Diploma.

It Tests Logic, Not Just Calculation

The GNA 10 is not a typical "math test" where students simply solve for $x$. Instead, it evaluates a student's ability to interpret and apply mathematical understanding to solve problems in "contextualized situations". It measures five core numeracy processes: interpreting, applying, solving, analyzing, and communicating solutions. Rather than memorizing formulas, students must use logic to determine which mathematical tools are appropriate for a real-world scenario, such as analyzing data or managing personal finances.

Format and Delivery

The assessments are primarily digital but vary in their delivery:

  • Graduation Numeracy Assessment (GNA 10): A hybrid format consisting of 24 computer-scored questions and 2 written-response questions completed on paper.

  • Graduation Literacy Assessments (GLA 10/12): Delivered entirely through a secure online platform, featuring both selected-response questions and typed multi-paragraph written responses.

Is it Pass/Fail?

Technically, no. There is no traditional "pass" or "fail" mark. Instead, results are reported on a 4-point proficiency scale:

  1. Emerging

  2. Developing

  3. Proficient

  4. Extending

To meet graduation requirements, a student must simply write the assessments and score at least a "1". However, because a student's best result is recorded on their official transcript, many choose to rewrite the assessment (up to three total attempts) to reach the "Proficient" level valued by schools like UBC.

We teach the logic, not just the math. If you want to ensure your child is prepared for the unique reasoning required by these provincial assessments, I can help.

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