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Page 1 of 2
23 July 2012 Number: 044/12
Years 10 – 12
Queensland Core Skills (QCS) Test: Directions for Administration
2012
Purpose To provide information to chief supervisors about the
administration of the 2012 QCS Test.
Background To help ensure the security, fair administration and
integrity of the QCS Test at all test centres, the QSA has
documented the procedures that chief supervisors and other
personnel must follow when administering the test. The procedures
are outlined in the following documents:
• Queensland Core Skills (QCS) Test: Directions for
Administration 2012
This handbook (often referred to as the “DFA”) details the
directions for the administration of the test. All personnel
involved in administering the test must follow the directions
stated in this document unless told otherwise by the QSA.
• Instructions to students
This handout provides information to students about sitting the
test. In previous years, it also included the Absentee application
for exemption (OP-eligible student) form. This form will no longer
be provided. If an OP-eligible student is absent from all or part
of the test and wants to remain eligible for an OP, a teacher or
guidance officer should help the student to complete an Application
for exemption for unexpected absence, available from
www.qsa.qld.edu.au/1102.html from 4 September 2012. The form must
be faxed to (07) 3221 2930 with supporting documentation by 3
October 2012. Medical certificates should provide details of the
medical condition (e.g. chicken pox) and not simply say "a medical
condition". Do not put application forms or supporting
documentation in the metal cases.
• Form QCS 10 Calculator declaration
This form must be signed by each student intending to sit the
test to declare their understanding of the use of approved
calculators during the test sessions. Memo 023/12 dated 21 March
2012 provided updated information to chief supervisors about what
types of calculators students can use when sitting the test.
Attachments and web links • Queensland Core Skills (QCS) Test:
Directions for Administration 2012 (one copy). Multiple copies
of the DFA will be included with the Group A support
materials
• Instructions to students (multiple copies)
• Form QCS 10 Calculator declaration (two copies)
The Directions for Administration, the Instructions to students
and the Form QCS 10 Calculator declaration are also available on
the QSA website: www.qsa.qld.edu.au/2324.html.
http://www.qsa.qld.edu.au/1102.htmlhttp://www.qsa.qld.edu.au/2324.html
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Queensland Core Skills (QCS) Test: Directions for Administration
2012 19 July 2012 | Page 2 of 2
What you need to do The chief supervisor must:
• thoroughly read the DFA and become familiar with all the
directions for the administration of the test
• start planning for the administration of the test
• immediately distribute the Instructions to students to all
Year 12 students intending to sit the test (see page 8 of the
DFA)
• make sure the calculator that each student intends to use for
the test meets the criteria for an approved calculator as stated on
the Form QCS 10 Calculator declaration (see page 10 of the DFA)
• make sure that each student intending to sit the test signs
the Form QCS 10 Calculator declaration by Friday 17 August. (This
form must be returned to the QSA after the last test session).
Upcoming important dates Friday 10 August Closing date for the
distribution of the Instructions to students to all
Year 12 students intending to sit the test
Friday 17 August Closing date for all Year 12 students intending
to sit the test to sign the Form QCS 10 Calculator declaration
Tuesday 21 August Group A support materials delivered to test
centres
Late August Group B test materials delivered to test centres
Monday 3 September (7:00 am to 12:30 pm)
Access the QCS Test administration database on the QSA secure
website to print the Corrections instructions
Tuesday 4 September Administration of the Writing Task (WT) and
Multiple Choice I (MC I) test session
Wednesday 5 September Administration of the Short Response (SR)
and Multiple Choice II (MC II) test sessions
Friday 7 September Access the QCS Test administration database
on the QSA secure website to finalise the record of attendance of
the chief community representatives and community
representatives
Mid-October Payments to chief community representatives and
community representatives are credited to their nominated
accounts
More information If you would like more information, please
email the Assessment Operations Unit at [email protected],
or phone (07) 3864 0394.
Jo-Anne Cooper Manager Assessment Operations Unit
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Directions for Administration2012 Queensland Core Skills
Test
Queensland Studies Authority154 Melbourne Street, South Brisbane
PO Box 307 Spring Hill QLD 4004 AustraliaT +61 7 3864 0299F +61 7
3221 2553
www.qsa.qld.edu.au
Directions for Adm
inistration | 2012 Queensland Core S
kills Test
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Directions for Administration — 2012 Queensland Core Skills
Test© The State of Queensland (Queensland Studies Authority)
2012
Queensland Studies Authority154 Melbourne Street, South Brisbane
PO Box 307 Spring Hill QLD 4004 AustraliaT +61 7 3864 0299F +61 7
3221 2553
www.qsa.qld.edu.au
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ContentsIntroduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . .1Contacts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Definitions (specific to the QCS Test) . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . 2
Rules for conducting the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3Key
personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Chief supervisor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Chief community representatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . 3
Community representatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . 3
Supervisors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Timing of the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Location of test centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Candidates for the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Security of the test materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Access to the testpapers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . 4
Access to the test room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . 5
Leaving the test room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . 5
Student conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Student equipment and materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . 6
Duties of the chief supervisor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
.7Before the days of the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Organising chief community representatives . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . 7
Receiving non-secure (Group A) support materials . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. 7
Receiving secure (Group B) materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . 7
Distributing Instructions to students handout . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . 8
Checking and updating the attendance roll . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . 8
Preparing place cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . 9
Allocating place cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . 9
Preparing the test room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . 10
Arranging seating. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . 10
Checking student equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . 10
Arranging supervision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . 11
Arranging variations to test conditions for students who have
been approved special provision . . . . . 11
Corrections instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . 12
On the days of the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
During each test session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Admitting students to the test room . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . 13
Private-entry candidates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . 13
Marking the attendance roll . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . 13
Regulating student conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . 14
Dealing with an alleged error in the test. . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . 14
Dealing with a disturbance to the administration of the test . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15
At the end of each test session. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . 15
Packing of materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . 15
Summary of what to do with test materials . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . 16
Case collections after test sessions . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . 17
Queensland Studies Authority | i
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ii
After the last test session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Duties of chief community representatives . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19Before the
days of the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . 19
Receiving the key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Receiving secure (Group B) materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . 19
On the days of the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
During each test session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . 21
At the end of each test session. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . 21
After the last test session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Duties of community representatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23Before the
days of the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . 23
On the days of the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
During each test session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . 23
At the end of each test session. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . 23
After the last test session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Duties of supervisors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
.24Before the days of the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . 24
On the days of the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
During each test session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Supervising the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . 24
Replacing faulty testpapers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . 25
Dealing with alleged errors discovered in the test. . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . 25
Checking student equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . 26
Late arrival of students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . 27
Temporary absence of students during a test session . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
27
Withdrawing from the test session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . 27
Early departure of students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . 27
At the end of each test session. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . 27
After the last test session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Administration of the Writing Task test session . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29Packing the
Writing Task response books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
35
Administration of the Multiple Choice I andMultiple Choice II
test sessions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37Packing the Multiple Choice
response sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Administration of the Short Response test session . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45Packing the Short
Response testpapers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Sample materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
.52Security seals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Place card (with name printed) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . 53
Place card (blank) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Forms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Instructions to students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
.71
Administering special provision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
.73Seating out of order or separate supervision . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . 73
| Directions for Administration 2012 QCS Test
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Restbreaks and extra time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . 73
Restbreaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Extra time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Test session instructions in writing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . 74
Special equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Special test materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Returning response materials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . 76
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| Directions for Administration 2012 QCS Test
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IntroductionThe Queensland Core Skills (QCS) Test is developed,
published, administered, marked and reported on by the Queensland
Studies Authority (QSA).
This test is one component of the Student Education Profile for
Year 12 students, and has been administered across the state each
year since its introduction in 1992.
The QCS Test is designed to test achievement in the common
elements of the senior curriculum in Queensland, that is, the
common curriculum elements (CCEs). It is not subject-specific,
although certain assumptions are made about students command of
Standard Australian English, mathematical language and mathematical
operations.
The QSA sets and amends the rules for the test under its powers
and functions listed in the Education (Queensland Studies
Authority) Act 2002 and the associated Regulation.
It is important that the administration of this test be
consistent and fair and that it be seen to be so.
The QSA is responsible to students, to authorities that use the
rank order information and/or individual results, to parents and to
the general public for maintaining the security of the test. The
QSA must also ensure that students sit the test under comparable
conditions at all test centres.
This handbook provides information to help ensure the security,
fair administration and integrity of the test by: defining the
parameters for test security making sure the test is administered
under comparable conditions in each test centre making sure
students are well supervised during the test avoiding any
disturbances during the administration of the test.
Testpapers are referred to throughout this handbook by their
acronyms: WT: Writing Task (Paper 1) MC I: Multiple Choice I (Paper
2) SR: Short Response (Paper 3) MC II: Multiple Choice II (Paper
4).
Contacts
For matters related to the Corrections instructions Assessment
Operations Unit (07) 3864 0394
For matters related to the content of the test Manager, QCS Test
(07) 3864 0270
For matters related to the conduct of students Manager, QCS Test
(07) 3864 0270
For matters related to the administration of testpapers Team
Leader (Senior) (07) 3864 0344
For matters related to the provision of materialsAssistant
Assessment Operations Officer
(07) 3864 0448
For matters related to the delivery and collection of materials
by the courier
Operations Assistant(courier service)
(07) 3635 4915
For all faxes to the QSA about the QCS Test Appropriate officer
or section (07) 3864 0213
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Definitions (specific to the QCS Test) the test or the QCS Test
is the Queensland Core Skills Test, which comprises four testpapers
the QSA is the Queensland Studies Authority. Note: Throughout this
document, we, our and us refer to
the QSA testpaper refers to the Writing Task (WT) testpaper, the
Multiple Choice I (MC I) testbook, the Multiple Choice II
(MC II) testbook or the Short Response (SR) testbook, as
appropriate test centre is a Queensland secondary school, or
another place so approved by the QSA, where, in any given
year, there are students sitting any session of the test chief
supervisor is the person responsible for the proper conduct of the
test at an approved test centre.
This person is also responsible for the security of the test
materials while the materials are at the test centre before, during
and after the administration of the test
supervisor is a person (and could include the chief supervisor)
who administers the test and supervises students in a test room
student, for the purposes of this document, is a person who is a
candidate for the test test room is any room in a test centre so
designated by the chief supervisor of that centre chief community
representative is a person whom the QSA appoints to observe and
report on the conduct of
the test at the test centre. Two chief community representatives
are appointed to each test centre community representative is a
person whom the QSA appoints to observe the conduct of the test at
an
approved test centre. Throughout this document, you and your
refer to the chief supervisor, supervisor, chief community
representative and community representative, as appropriate
cartons refers to the cardboard cartons containing the test
support materials (Group A materials) cases refers to the
colour-coded metal security cases containing the testpapers (Group
B materials) key is issued to each chief community representative
of a test centre to lock and unlock the cases for that
particular test centre student response refers to a completed
response book, response sheet or testpaper as appropriate Senior
Data Capture System (SDCS) is the computer-based system that the
QSA uses to collect data on each
Year 11 and Year 12 student.
| DFA 2012 QCS Test Introduction
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Rules for conducting the test
Key personnel
Chief supervisorThe chief supervisor is responsible for the
conduct of the test at an approved test centre, and for the
security of the test materials while the materials are at the
approved test centre before, during and after the administration of
the test.
The chief supervisor is the principal of a school that is a test
centre. However, the principal may delegate the chief supervisors
responsibilities to another member of the permanent teaching
staff.
Chief community representativesThe QSA appoints two chief
community representatives to each test centre to: keep custody of
the key for the cases make sure that the secure test materials are
received at the test centre in accordance with instructions given
by
the QSA unlock and lock all cases assist with the checking of
all secure materials be independent observers and report to the QSA
on the administration of the test ensure accountability supervise
community representatives during the administration of the test
complete forms.
Community representativesThe QSA appoints community
representative/s to each test centre with more than 150 students
sitting the test to: observe the administration of the test report
to a chief community representative any concerns about the
administration of the test ensure accountability.
Community representatives work under the supervision of the
chief community representatives.
SupervisorsThe chief supervisor selects supervisors from the
teaching staff of the school that is a test centre to: administer
the test supervise students during test sessions.
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Timing of the testThe test is conducted on the Tuesday and
Wednesday of the third-last week of school in Term 3 before the
start of the September school holidays, as approved by the
Department of Education and Training.
Therefore, the dates for the test this year are Tuesday 4
September and Wednesday 5 September.
Each test session must start no earlier and no later than the
times shown below.
Within these times, the chief supervisor decides and sets the
actual starting time for each test session to suit local
circumstances.
Mornings
Afternoons
Location of test centreThe QSA expects that each test centre
will be a Queensland secondary school with students enrolled in
Year 12.
If the test room is not part of a secondary school that has been
designated as a test centre, approval to vary the location of the
test room for this year must be sought well in advance of the test.
Complete the Application to vary the location of a test centre form
and fax to the QSA as soon as possible. This form is available on
our website.
Candidates for the testAll Year 12 students who are eligible for
an Overall Position (OP) by virtue of their subject choice must sit
the test. In addition, Year 12 students who are not eligible for an
OP may choose to sit the test.
People who have completed Year 12 previously, or who are at
least 18 years of age in the year in which the test is taken, may
apply to the QSA to sit the test at an approved test centre. On
approval of their applications, they become private-entry
candidates.
Security of the test materials
Access to the testpapersOnly the chief supervisor, supervisors,
chief community representatives and community representatives are
to have access to testpapers before and after the test
sessions.
Nobody is to read or work a testpaper before a test session
begins. Only students are to read or work testpapers during the
test sessions.
During the time of the administration of the test, the chief
supervisor and supervisors are to have access to the testpapers
only to check whether a student has a faulty testpaper that is, a
testpaper where a paper or page is incomplete or where the print is
illegible. A supervisor is to replace such a testpaper if
necessary.
Day 1 Writing Task (WT)Perusal time: 10 minutesWorking time: 2
hours Begin the perusal time no
earlier than 8:50 am and no later than 9:20 am.Day 2 Short
Response (SR)
Perusal time: 10 minutesWorking time: 2 hours
Day 1 Multiple Choice I (MC I)Perusal time: 10 minutesWorking
time: 1 hour 30 minutes Begin the perusal time no
earlier than 12:30 pm and no later than 1:00 pm.Day 2 Multiple
Choice II (MC II)
Perusal time: 10 minutesWorking time: 1 hour 30 minutes
| DFA 2012 QCS Test Rules for conducting the test
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To maintain security of the test, the chief supervisor is to:
store all cases containing the testpapers in a secure place until
the time to prepare for each test session open the plastic bags
containing the testpapers in the test room only when ready to
distribute the papers and
not before count the number of testpapers taken from each bag,
and check that this number is the same as the number of
testpapers shown on the label as being enclosed in the bag. If
there is a discrepancy, the chief supervisor is to make sure that a
record is provided on the Form QCS 2 Report from the chief
supervisor (see pages 58 and 59)
check that the number of student responses collected at the end
of each test session is the same as the number of students present
for the session. This check must occur in the presence of at least
one chief community representative
pack the student responses immediately after each test session,
and then store them in a secure place until they are collected by
the courier service.
Access to the test roomOnly the chief supervisor, supervisors,
chief community representatives and community representatives or
other authorised persons may enter, or remain in, a test room
during the 45 minutes immediately before or after a test
session.
Only the chief supervisor, supervisors, chief community
representatives, community representatives, other authorised
persons and students may enter or remain in a test room during a
test session. It is inappropriate to admit other persons (e.g.
media representatives), as their presence is likely to disrupt
students.
A student must not enter a test room before a supervisor has
given permission to enter.
A student must not enter a test room after the test session has
started, except with permission from the chief supervisor or the
supervisor in charge of the test in that room (see page 27). Such
late entry must be no more than 40 minutes after the start of
perusal time, except in special circumstances and after an
explanation that satisfies the chief supervisor.
Leaving the test roomA student must not leave a test room in the
first 40 minutes (after the start of perusal time) or within 10
minutes of the end of the test session, except in the case of
illness or emergency. If a student happens to leave a test room in
the first 40 minutes, the chief supervisor must take all reasonable
precautions to make sure that no communication occurs between the
student and any other student sitting the test at the test centre
or at any other test centre.
The chief supervisor may decide to allow students to hand in
their responses and testpapers and leave the test room 40 minutes
after the start of perusal time and up to 10 minutes before the end
of the test session. These students must not return to the test
room during the test session. However, once the test session has
ended, they may return to collect the relevant testpaper.
A student who has permission to leave the test room or leave
their seat temporarily must be supervised while out of the test
room or away from their seat. If a student does temporarily leave
the test room or their seat, the chief supervisor is to make sure
that a record is provided on the Form QCS 11 Register of temporary
absence by students (see pages 69 and 70).
The QSA may withhold the test results of a student who leaves a
test room before the finishing time without the permission of the
supervisor.
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Student conductTest conditions begin when the chief supervisor
instructs students to enter the test room and end when the chief
supervisor instructs all students to leave the test room.
A student must obey all reasonable directions given by a
supervisor.
A student must sit at the desk allocated for the test and may
not leave that desk except with the permission of a supervisor, or
at the direction of a supervisor.
A supervisor may ask a student to move and sit in another
place.
A student who wishes to speak with a supervisor must raise
his/her hand and wait quietly.
During any test session, a student must not: communicate with
anyone except a supervisor help anyone else to communicate with
another person willingly receive a communication from anyone
(except a supervisor) ask for help with the test, in whole or in
part cheat or attempt to cheat.
Student equipment and materialsUnless given written permission
by the QSA, a student must not bring into a test room any
unauthorised equipment. This includes writing paper, blotting
paper, book or manuscript, any equipment other than the equipment
listed as essential or optional for that test session (see page
11), or food. It is immaterial that the unauthorised equipment is
unrelated to the test.
The Writing Task test session is the only session in which
students will be supplied with loose sheets of paper.
Do not supply students with loose sheets of paper in either of
the Multiple Choice sessions or the Short Response session.
Students may not lend to or borrow from another student any
equipment or materials.
In response to requests from students, the chief supervisor may
allow the following materials to be brought into a test room by
students: reading glasses, tinted prescription glasses, low vision
aids plain folded tissues unwrapped cough lollies (barley sugar and
other sweets are not allowed) spare batteries for calculators,
hearing aids, etc. plain hand towel heat/cold pack earplugs water
in a plain unlabelled container (must be kept on the floor).
| DFA 2012 QCS Test Rules for conducting the test
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Duties of the chief supervisorThe following instructions are
provided for the chief supervisor.
Before the days of the test
Organising chief community representativesCheck with the
appointed chief community representatives and community
representatives (if applicable) to confirm their availability for
the test sessions. Arrange for replacements if necessary and access
the QCS Test administration database on the QSA secure website to
submit the changes electronically.
Receiving non-secure (Group A) support materialsWear the Chief
supervisors ID card for the receipt of materials.
About two weeks before the test, the cartons containing the
Group A materials will be delivered to the test centre. We will
tell you and both chief community representatives of the date and
time of delivery of the materials. We will ask the chief community
representatives to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled delivery
time.
The courier service will deliver the cartons to the
administration area of the school. If the courier has not arrived
within 20 minutes of the scheduled time, phone the Operations
Assistant (courier service), on (07) 3635 4915.
You are to sign for and accept delivery of the cartons in the
presence of both of your chief community representatives.
In the first carton will be a satchel addressed to the chief
community representatives of your test centre. Open this carton and
give the satchel to the chief community representatives.
Checking supply of materialsOpen the envelope containing the
Materials supply lists. Keep the Materials supply list Group B in a
safe place, until the later delivery of the Group B materials.
Use the Materials supply list Group A (see page 55) to check
that you have received all your materials. Record the time of
delivery on the supply list.
Open the bags and boxes and count the contents to verify that
the quantities received agree with the quantities indicated on the
supply list.
When the quantities agree, indicate () on the supply list.
If any materials are short-supplied, circle and indicate on the
supply list the extra quantities needed.
If the quantity of materials supplied is not enough to cater for
the number of students expected to sit the test, phone the
Assistant Assessment Operations Officer on (07) 3864 0448
immediately.
Store cartons in a safe place.
Complete and fax a verified Materials supply list Group A to the
Assessment Operations Unit on (07) 3864 0213 immediately.
Receive a completed Acknowledgment of receipt of key and ID card
form from each of your chief community representatives. Fax both
forms to the Assessment Operations Unit on (07) 3864 0213
immediately.
Receiving secure (Group B) materialsWear the Chief supervisors
ID card for the receipt of materials.
Within one week of the test, the cases containing the secure
Group B materials will be delivered to the test centre. We will
tell you and both chief community representatives of the date and
time of delivery of the cases. We will ask the chief community
representatives to arrive 20 minutes before the scheduled delivery
time.
The courier service will deliver the cases to the administration
area of the school. If the courier has not arrived within 20
minutes of the scheduled time, phone the Operations Assistant
(courier service), on (07) 3635 4915.
The chief community representatives are to accept delivery of
the cases in your presence. Do not move the cases to another area
for checking until the delivery process has been completed with the
courier.
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Checking supply of materialsThe materials will be packed in
locked, colour-coded metal cases:
Blue WTGreen MC IRed SR and SR miniature paperPurple MC II.
Retrieve the Materials supply list Group B that you received
earlier with the Group A materials.
After the delivery process has been completed, ask the chief
community representatives to unlock the cases in your presence and
then help you verify that the number of coloured plastic bags
received agrees with the quantities indicated on the Materials
supply list Group B (see page 56). Record the number of bags
received and the time of delivery on the supply list.
Make sure that each chief community representative opens at
least one case to verify that both keys work satisfactorily.
Do not open the bags containing the testpapers at this time for
any reason.
If the number of testpapers indicated on the labels attached to
the bags is not enough to cater for the number of students sitting
the test, phone the Assistant Assessment Operations Officer on (07)
3864 0448 immediately.
Ask the chief community representatives to lock all the
cases.
Store the cases in a secure place and maintain security of the
cases.
Complete and fax a verified Materials supply list Group B to the
Assessment Operations Unit on (07) 3864 0213 immediately.
Distributing Instructions to students handoutAs soon as possible
after the multiple copies of the handout arrive at your school (see
pages 71 and 72), distribute the Instructions to students to all
Year 12 students who may sit the test.
When distributing the handout, tell students that: they must
bring all of the essential equipment for each paper, and any of the
optional equipment they think
necessary (see page 11) coloured pencils are essential for the
Short Response testpaper supervisors do not supply equipment other
than pens, pencils, coloured pencils, erasers or calculators during
a
test session to students who do not have their own the
calculators for use in the test will be checked by the chief
supervisor to make sure they meet the
requirements for approval. See Note on the handout for the
requirements. Each student is required to sign the Form QCS 10
Calculator declaration to certify that they agree to use an
approved calculator only, and to show recognition that the use of
any other calculator is an act of cheating in terms of sitting the
QCS Test (see pages 67 and 68)
a student who is unable, for medical reasons, to sit all or part
of the test must submit a medical certificate as part of the
special provision process in order to remain eligible for an OP. A
medical certificate acceptable to the QSA is one where a registered
medical practitioner certifies to the existence of a medical
condition preventing the student from sitting all or part of the
test.
Checking and updating the attendance rollTwo copies of the QCS
Test Attendance roll are provided to each test centre. The roll is
printed from the data provided by schools in July (SDCS Data
Submission 2 version 2) and from nominations received from
private-entry candidates.
Students who enrol at the school after the submission of the
SDCS data will not be listed on the attendance roll. You will need
to add the details for these students to the roll manually. Before
you do this, enter their details on the SDCS.
Students transferring from other Queensland schools already have
student numbers. You must use these numbers for the transferred
students. Do not give new numbers to students who transferred from
other Queensland schools. Obtain confirmation of a transferred
students details, number, etc. from the previous school by way of
Form S1 Student transfer report generated from that schools
SDCS.
| DFA 2012 QCS Test Duties of the chief supervisor
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The QCS Test Attendance roll shows the student number, surname,
given names, gender, date of birth and OP-eligibility status for
each Year 12 student enrolled at the school and for each student in
the following categories, if applicable: other Year 12 students
(students enrolled at other Year 12 schools who are unable to sit
the QCS Test at their
home test centre) School of Distance Education students
(students enrolled at a School of Distance Education centre who
are
unable to sit the QCS Test at their home test centre)
private-entry candidates.
Amend the roll, if necessary: for each additional Year 12
student enrolled at the school add the student number, surname,
given names,
gender, date of birth and OP-eligibility status for any student
who is no longer enrolled in Year 12 at the school rule a line
through the number, name,
gender, date of birth and OP-eligibility status. Across the
attendance field, print LEFT SCHOOL.
Make sure both copies of the attendance roll are updated. Retain
one copy for your records. Return the other copy to the QSA after
the last test session.
Preparing place cardsWe print place cards from the data provided
by schools in July (SDCS Data Submission 2 version 2) and from
nominations received from private-entry candidates (see page
53).
Students who enrol at a school after the submission of the SDCS
data or who, for some other reason, have not been included in the
submission, will not have place cards. Prepare place cards for
these students before the test. We provide blank place cards for
this purpose (see page 54).
When preparing a place card ensure that: only the student number
is entered on each of the adhesive labels the format for the
student name is the same as that used for other students, that is,
surname followed by given
names the information is printed clearly in black ballpoint
pen.
We supply sufficient blank place cards to cater, where
necessary, for students in the categories below who have not been
provided with a place card: other Year 12 students School of
Distance Education students private-entry candidates.
We will provide the information to you to prepare a place card
for any students or candidates you might have in these
categories.
Allocating place cardsTo identify the place where each student
must sit during the test (as per the seating plan), place on or
attach to the top of each desk a place card. There is one place
card for each student for the four test sessions. The place card
contains the barcode ID labels for WT, MC I, SR and MC II (see
pages 53 and 54).On the back of each place card is an adhesive
strip along the top to prevent it from being moved, blown away or
accidentally taken out of the test room by a student during the two
days of the test. You decide if you wish to use this strip.
Discard place cards for students who have definitely left school
or who have transferred to other schools. Do not return these place
cards to the QSA. Do not forward a place card for a student who has
transferred from the school to the students new school. Do not
attach the barcode ID labels for any of these students to any
absentee sheet.
Schools who enrol transferred students after the submission of
SDCS Data Submission 2 version 2 will have sufficient blank place
cards to prepare personalised place cards for these students.
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Preparing the test roomPlan to conduct the test under favourable
conditions, free from interruptions, noise and other
distractions.
Make sure there is adequate lighting.
Place clock/s in prominent position/s, visible to all
students.
Make sure that clocks are synchronised.
Remove, reverse or cover all wall charts, maps, posters,
artwork, etc.
Clean blackboards and whiteboards.
Prepare blackboards/whiteboards to record the starting, warning
and finishing times during the test sessions(see pages 33, 41 and
49).
Clear desks ready for distributing test materials (reverse desks
with shelves).
Arranging seatingUse the QCS Test Attendance roll and your
knowledge about how many of your students are expected to sit the
test to work out the number of seats you need to provide in your
test room/s. If you know that particular OP-ineligible students are
not going to sit the test, do not provide seats for these students.
Do not leave a seat for a student who has left school or who has
transferred to another school.
Seat students so that they all face the same way (normally the
front of the test room).
Seat students at least 1.5 metres apart in each direction (from
head to head).
Seat students so that supervisors have direct and easy access to
and around every student and can observe all students at all times.
Do not seat students against a wall or such structure. Supervisors
must be able to move around every student.
Seat each category of student separately, that is, Year 12
students from your school, Year 12 students from other schools,
School of Distance Education students, private-entry
candidates.
Starting from the front of the room, seat all students within a
category in alphabetical order across the room (and from room to
room, if multiple rooms are used).
Seat students who have approval for separate supervision in
another room or section. All students who have been given the same
amount of extra time may be seated in the same section (away from
the rest of the students) and may be supervised by the same
supervisor.
Complete the Form QCS 9 Seating plan (see pages 64–66), to
identify where each student is sitting in the testroom/s. Copy and
attach extra copies of the form according to the layout of test
rooms if necessary.
The seating plan and the seating arrangements must be the same
for all four test sessions. Sign the seating plan and return it to
the QSA after the last test session.
Checking student equipmentEnsure that students have signed and
that you have signed the Form QCS 10 Calculator declaration to
certify that the students calculators have been checked and that
they meet the requirements for approval (see pages 67 and 68).
QCS Test items are developed on the basis that the type of
calculator used should not constitute an advantage or disadvantage
for a student. The calculator should be able to perform the basic
functions of addition, subtraction, multiplication, division,
square roots and powers. The calculator is to be hand-held, solar
or battery-operated, noiseless and not attached to a printer. The
calculator must not have a computer algebra system (CAS),
spell-checker, dictionary, thesaurus, or translator as these
functions could prohibit the proper testing of some common
curriculum elements (CCEs). Graphing calculators without CAS
functionality may be used.
Mobile phones are not permitted, so students will not be able to
use the calculator functions of a mobile phone during the test.
Electronic devices such as iPods or translators are not
permitted. No form of personal computer is permitted, e.g. laptop,
notebook, hand-held organiser, pocket PC. Having such devices may
be considered as cheating.
Remind students of the equipment they are to bring to the test
(see page 11).
Check that all students have all their essential equipment.
Decide whether students are allowed to bring other materials
into the test room (see page 6). Tell your supervisors and chief
community representatives about your decision to allow or not allow
students to bring other materials into the test room.
| DFA 2012 QCS Test Duties of the chief supervisor
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Equipment that students provide for themselves
Providing equipmentHave on hand, in a central location in each
test room, a small supply of black ballpoint pens, pencils,
coloured pencils, erasers, calculators and tissues.
Do not allow students to lend to or borrow from other students
any equipment.
Arranging supervisionSelect teachers from your staff to be
supervisors of the test.
When you accommodate students in class rooms, allocate
supervisors in a ratio of one supervisor per maximum of 25
students, excluding the chief community representatives, community
representatives and yourself. You may change the ratio to one
supervisor per maximum of 35 students if you accommodate more than
75 students in a single, separate area such as a school hall.
Brief supervisors on their responsibilities and duties at least
a week before the test (see page 24).
Make sure each supervisor has access to a copy of this
handbook.
Arranging variations to test conditions for students who have
been approved special provisionSpecial provision (variations to
test conditions and exemption) can only be approved by the QSA.
Written notification of the outcome of applications for special
provision will be sent to students and the principal throughout the
year. Two weeks before the test we will send advice about all
approved applications to the chief supervisor in a report that
provides a summary of the applications. Chief supervisors should
refer to the copies of notifications sent to the principal for
details of variations to test conditions.
Variations to test conditions approved by the QSA must be
implemented by the test centre, unless a student decides they do
not wish to use the variation. At least one week before the test,
the chief supervisor must speak with each student who has been
approved variations to determine which of the approved variations
they wish to use.
Test sessionPermitted
Not permittedEssential Optional
Writing Task pens (black ink) pencilspencil
sharpenererasercorrecting fluid/tapehighlightertransparent
container to carry equipmentother approved items as permitted by
the chief supervisor (see page 6)
own paperdictionarythesauruselectronic devicesany other
items
Multiple Choice IandMultiple Choice II
2B pencilspencil sharpenereraserrulerapproved calculator
highlightertransparent container to carry equipmentother
approved items as permitted by the chief supervisor (see page
6)
own paperdictionarythesaurusprotractordrawing compasselectronic
devicesany other items
Short Response pens (black ink)pencilsprotractordrawing
compasserasercoloured pencilsrulerapproved calculatortransparent
container to carry equipment
highlighterpencil sharpenercorrecting fluid/tapeother approved
items as permitted by the chief supervisor (see page 6)
own paperdictionarythesauruselectronic devicesany other
items
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Some variations to test conditions may require preparation by
the chief supervisor, e.g. additional supervisor/s (if separate
supervision is approved), computer, special seating.
See page 73 for instructions on administering variations to test
conditions.
Corrections instructionsDetails of any corrections to the
testpapers or changes to the administration of the test will be
available to you from 7:00 am on Monday the day before the first
test day. You must access the QCS Test administration database on
the QSA website to print these instructions.
Even if there are no corrections to be made, you must access and
print the instructions.
At the very least, the instructions will provide essential
information about the SR test session (see page 46).
Make sufficient copies of the Corrections instructions for all
your supervisors and the chief community representatives.
Phone the Assessment Operations Unit on (07) 3864 0394 before
12:30 pm on Monday the day before the first test day if you have
any problems accessing these instructions.
On the days of the testWear the Chief supervisors ID card.
Retrieve the following items from the Group A support materials:
absentee sheets for the particular test session envelope containing
the security seals envelope containing consignment notes for the
particular test session.
Make sure that: supervisors and chief community representatives
receive a copy of the Corrections instructions chief community
representatives receive their copy of the letter approving
variations to conditions to sit the test
for a particular student (if applicable).
Ask a chief community representative to open the appropriate
cases approximately 2540 minutes before the start of each test
session. Depending on the number of students sitting and the number
of test rooms being used, this procedure may take longer. Consider
how much time you will need. Open the bags, check and distribute
the testpapers from one room in the presence of a chief community
representative. Make sure security is maintained once the bags are
opened.
Count the number of testpapers taken from each bag and check
that this number is the same as the number of testpapers shown on
the label as being enclosed in the bag. If there is a discrepancy,
make sure that a record is provided on the Form QCS 2 Report from
the chief supervisor (see pages 58 and 59).
During each test sessionPlace testpapers and response
books/sheets on those desks that have place cards. Keep surplus
materials in each test room during the test session. Make sure
that: supervisors and students follow the rules and directions for
administering and sitting the test the Corrections instructions are
acted upon, as necessary supervisors supervise actively, that is,
constantly moving quietly around and between students (see page 24)
temporary absences of students are recorded by supervisors only
students read or work through testpapers no test materials are left
on unoccupied desks for more than 40 minutes after the start of
perusal time the QCS Test Attendance roll is marked 40 minutes
after the start of perusal time the test is not suspended or
interrupted (see page 15).
Make sure that the chief community representatives: remove the
relevant barcode ID label from the place card for each absent
student and attach it to the Absentee
sheet. Do not forget the labels for OP-ineligible students who
were not expected to sit the test.
Record any unusual circumstances reported by supervisors, chief
community representatives or community representatives. Phone the
Manager, QCS Test, on (07) 3864 0270 for urgent enquiries about the
testpaper.
| DFA 2012 QCS Test Duties of the chief supervisor
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Admitting students to the test roomMake sure that supervisors:
admit students to the test room only after the testpapers and
response books/sheets have been distributed check that students
bring into the test room only the equipment permitted for that
session place any unauthorised materials in a safe place.
You may ask any student present in the test room to show proof
of identity. If a student has failed to prove identity, make a
report in writing to the Manager, Assessment Operations. The QSA
may, after appropriate investigation, withhold the students test
result.
Private-entry candidatesCheck that each private-entry candidate
has: this years candidate identification form suitable photographic
identification.
If a candidate cannot provide both forms of identification, you
are to: tell the candidate that he or she will be allowed to sit
the test, but a ruling will be made later by the QSA on the
candidates eligibility have the candidate provide in writing,
before sitting the test, sufficient details to satisfy the QSA of
his or her
identity, for example date of birth, school last attended ask
the candidate to explain in writing, before sitting the test, why
he or she is unable to provide suitable
identification and inform the candidate that, if this causes a
delay in the candidates starting time, no extra time will be
granted to complete the test
report in writing to the Manager, Assessment Operations after
the last test session.
If a private-entry candidate presents at the wrong test centre:
follow the procedure above for checking the candidates
identification tell the candidate that he or she will be allowed to
sit the test, but a QSA ruling will be made later on the
candidates eligibility report in writing to the Manager,
Assessment Operations after the last test session.
Marking the attendance rollUse the QCS Test Attendance roll (in
duplicate) for all four test sessions. You need only record
absences for each test session by entering A in the appropriate
column. You do not need to make any mark beside the names of
students who are present for the test session. Do not forget to
record the absences of your OP-ineligible students.
The name of any student who has left school or transferred to
another school should have been deleted from the roll in the
process of checking and updating the attendance roll (see page
8).
Complete the absence summary for each category of students on
the last page of the QCS Test Attendance roll by recording the
number of students absent for each test session. These numbers must
agree with the number of ID labels attached to the relevant
absentee sheets.
Calculate and record the revised total number of students at the
end of the QCS Test Attendance roll.
For each student marked absent for one or more sessions, clearly
indicate in the space provided the reason for the absence. To save
time, use the codes listed below to indicate particular reasons. If
the reason is not listed, indicate the reason with a brief
description.
In previous years, medical certificates, etc. for absent
students have been sent to us in either a purple case or in a
provided envelope. This year we have changed the process. If an
OP-eligible student is unavoidably absent from all
Reason for absence Code
Medical/sick/illness M
Bereavement/funeral B
Sports representation S
Transport problems T
Weather problems W
Ineligible student I
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or part of the test and wants to remain eligible for an OP, a
teacher or guidance officer should help the student to complete an
Application for exemption for unexpected absence, available from
http://www.qsa.qld.edu.au/1102.html from 4 September 2012. The form
must be faxed to 3221 2930 with supporting documentation by 3
October 2012. Medical certificates must cover the days of the test
and provide details of the medical condition (e.g. chicken pox) and
not simply say "a medical condition". Do not put application forms
or supporting documentation in the metal cases.
Regulating student conductCarry out random checks for possession
of unauthorised equipment by students. Confiscate any unauthorised
equipment found. Allow the student to complete the test after
appropriate but minimal intervention, and tell the student at the
end of the test session that they have breached the rules for
sitting the test and that the QSA will rule on any punitive
measures. Do not pre-empt any judgment of a case of cheating. Only
the QSA has punitive powers for the test. Report such incidents in
writing to the Manager, QCS Test.
During the WT and SR sessions, students must cover their work
when possible. During the MC sessions students must turn their
response sheets face down or cover them when possible.
Cheating includes, but is not confined to: looking at another
students work. making it possible for another student to copy
responses deliberately or knowingly. plagiarising someone elses
work. bringing unauthorised equipment or materials into the test
room. communicating with any person other than a supervisor, e.g.
through talking or whispering, passing notes,
making gestures.
Dealing with an alleged error in the testDo not vary test
conditions in any way. After the test session, tell students that
the QSA will take corrective measures if necessary. Report the
incident in writing to the Manager, QCS Test.
| DFA 2012 QCS Test Duties of the chief supervisor
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Dealing with a disturbance to the administration of the testMake
every effort to complete the test, whatever the disturbance, even
if the test session is greatly extended. A second sitting of the
test is extraordinarily difficult to arrange, potentially traumatic
for students, and immensely inconvenient for schools. It also
presents serious technical and administrative problems.
In the event of disturbances to the total group of students in a
test centre (e.g. a bomb scare): tell students to leave all
materials in the room evacuate students make a note of the time
closely supervise students during the disturbance, making every
effort to restrict communication between
them maintain regular contact with the Manager, QCS Test,
telephone (07) 3864 0270. Decisions about modification
to the administration of the test session will be made
progressively unless otherwise determined, when the all clear is
given, tell students to return to the test room to complete
the testpaper adjust finish time appropriately keep a written
record of the incident.
After the test we will review the circumstances to determine
what action, if any, is needed to ensure fair treatment for all
concerned.
In the case of unintentional disturbances caused by a single
person within the test room (e.g. uncontrolled crying or coughing),
or from outside (e.g. jackhammers on nearby construction sites),
the chief supervisor has the right and duty to act as he or she
sees fit. The first priority must be to enable all students to
concentrate undisturbed on completing the test. For example, the
person/s in the test room causing the disturbance should be asked
to leave the test room. In the case of severe disturbances (for
example, use of force), call the police. Record the nature of the
disturbance, the period of the disturbance and your assessment of
its effect on students. Send this record to the Manager, QCS Test
after the last test session.
At the end of each test sessionCollect all student
responses.
Make sure that each student hands in only one student
response.
Check that the number of student responses collected is the same
as the number of students present for the test session. If a
student has used a second WT response book or a second SR
testpaper, staple the second one inside the back cover of the first
response book/testpaper. Do this in the presence of at least one
chief community representative.
Do not allow students to leave until the number of student
responses collected and the number of students present is the
same.
At the end of the WT, MC I and MC II test sessions, allow
students to take their testpapers from the test room.
At the end of the SR test session, students are to collect the
SR miniature testpaper to take with them from the test room (see
page 50).
Allow students to leave the test room.
If you have students who have been approved special provision,
complete the sections of the Special provision response materials
form that relate to the test session.
Packing of materialsStart packing immediately after the students
have left the test room. You and the chief community
representatives must follow the packing instructions for each
session: Writing Task (see page 35) Multiple Choice (see page 43)
Short Response (see page 51).
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Summary of what to do with test materials
Place on each desk Have on handCollect
after test session
Retain after test session
Discard Send to QSA Pack in
Writing Task1 place card
(remains on desk forall four test sessions)
3 loose sheets of paper1 testpaper1 response book
pens (black ink)pencilserasers
response books
place cardsspare testpapers
(students retain own testpapers)
loose sheets of paper
unused/spoiled response books
blue plastic bags
completed response books
(Collection 1)
envelopes inside blue case/s
Multiple Choice I1 testpaper 1 response sheet
2B pencils erasers
calculators to replace faulty ones
response sheets
place cards spare testpapers
(students retain own testpapers)
unused/spoiledresponse sheetsgreen plastic
bags
completed response sheets
(Collection 2)
cardboard boxes sealed in white envelopes inside green
case/s
Short Response1 testpaper
pens (black ink)pencilscoloured pencilseraserscalculators to
replace faulty ones
testpapers place cardsspare testpapers
and spare SR miniatures(students given SR miniatures after test
session)
spoiled testpapers
red plastic bags
completed testpapers
(Collection 2)
envelopes inside red case/s
Multiple Choice II1 testpaper1 response sheet
2B pencilseraserscalculators to
replace faulty ones
response sheets
place cards spare testpapers
(students retain own testpapers)
unused/spoiled response sheets
place cardspurple plastic
bags
completed response sheets
(Collection 3)
cardboard boxes sealed in white envelopes inside purple
case/s
attendance roll and forms,ID cards for chief supervisor and
community representatives
(Collection 3)
envelopes inside a purple case
| DFA 2012 QCS Test Duties of the chief supervisor
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Case collections after test sessionsThe courier service will
collect the cases from the administration area of the school.
The QSA will inform you, in writing, of the scheduled dates and
times that your cases will be collected by the courier service.
This information will also be available through the QCS Test
administration database on the QSA secure website.
The chief supervisor does not need to be present in the
administration area of the school when collections are made.
However, the chief supervisor must inform the appropriate school
staff of the collection details, namely the colour and number of
cases, the collection schedule and the contact number, (07) 3635
4915, to phone if the courier service does not arrive within 20
minutes of the scheduled time.
If the second collection is made between 3:15 pm and 4:00 pm on
the Wednesday, the green, red and purple cases will be collected,
making a third collection unnecessary.
Collection Area Range of collection times Cases
1
Brisbane and provincial cities
Between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm on Tuesday Blue only
Queensland country areas
Between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm on TuesdayorBetween 8:00 am and
11:00 am on Wednesday
2
Brisbane and provincial cities
Between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm on Wednesday Green and red
Queensland country areas
Between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm on WednesdayorBetween 8:00 am and
11:00 am on Thursday
3 All areas Between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm on Thursday Purple
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After the last test sessionAttend to the following: QCS Test
Attendance roll
make sure all absentees have been marked make sure the reason
for absence has been indicated for each student marked as absent
make sure chief community representatives have signed the roll sign
as correct.
Form QCS 1 Attendance report make sure the totals at A, B, C, D
and E are the same re-check the data against the absentee sheets
and the attendance roll sign the declaration.
Form QCS 2 Report from the chief supervisor make sure the form
is completed sign the declaration.
Forms QCS 3, 4, 5 and 6 Absentee sheets make sure the
information recorded on the attendance roll is the same as the
barcode ID labels attached for
each test session make sure the chief community representatives
have signed the absentee sheets sign as correct.
Form QCS 9 Seating plan make sure the form is completed make
sure the chief community representatives have signed the seating
plan sign the declaration.
Form QCS 11 Register of temporary absence by students make sure
all temporary absences are recorded sign the declaration.
Sign the Travel claim for chief community representative B (if
applicable).
Send to us, in the envelopes as indicated, in one of the purple
cases: QCS Test Attendance roll (one copy only; school retains the
second copy) Form QCS 1 Attendance report Form QCS 2 Report from
the chief supervisor Form QCS 3 Paper 1 (WT) Absentee sheet Form
QCS 4 Paper 2 (MC I) Absentee sheet Form QCS 5 Paper 3 (SR)
Absentee sheet Form QCS 6 Paper 4 (MC II) Absentee sheet Form QCS 9
Seating plan Form QCS 10 Calculator declaration Form QCS 11
Register of temporary absence by students Chief supervisor ID card
and community representative ID cards (if applicable) Travel claim
for chief community representative B (if applicable).
By Friday of the week of the test, access the QCS Test
administration database on the QSA secure website to finalise the
record of attendance of chief community representatives and
community representatives. If you do not do this, they will not be
paid.
If you have students who have been approved special provision,
fax the Special provision response materials form to 3864 0213 by
3:00 pm on Thursday 6 September.
| DFA 2012 QCS Test Duties of the chief supervisor
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Duties of chief community representativesThe following
instructions are provided for chief community representatives.
Before the days of the testWith your appointment notice, you
will receive the documents listed below. If they apply to you,
complete and return them to the QSA in the reply paid envelope by
the end of August. Tax file number declaration (if you have not
worked for the QSA previously or if you have previously worked
for
the QSA and your taxation details have changed) Electronic funds
transfer (EFT) form (if you have not worked for the QSA previously
or if you have previously
worked for the QSA and your bank and/or personal details have
changed).
Contact the chief supervisor of the school to which you have
been appointed to confirm that you accept the appointment.
If you will not be available to accept this appointment, contact
the chief supervisor of the school that nominated you immediately.
The chief supervisor will arrange for a replacement.
Become familiar with the administrative procedures for the test
as outlined in this handbook.
Receiving the keyThe non-secure (Group A) support materials will
be delivered to the school by the courier service about two weeks
before the test. You must attend the school 10 minutes before the
scheduled delivery time to receive the key for the cases. The QSA
will inform you, in writing, of the date and time of delivery.
After you receive this notice contact the chief supervisor to
confirm your availability.
The chief supervisor will sign for the receipt of the support
materials and open the first carton so that you can be given the
satchel addressed to the chief community representatives. The
satchel will contain two envelopes one for each chief community
representative (A and B). Each envelope will contain: small
cardboard box containing the key for the cases and the chief
community representatives ID card Acknowledgment of receipt of key
and ID card form Authority for transfer of key and ID card form QCS
Form 7 Report from the chief community representative labelled
white envelope (for return of QCS Form 7) reply paid postpak padded
bag.
Open your envelope immediately to check that all the listed
items are enclosed. Open the small cardboard box to check that the
code on the key and ID card matches the position code on your
appointment notice.
Complete and sign the Acknowledgment of receipt of key and ID
card form. Hand your completed form to the chief supervisor who
will fax your signed form to the QSA immediately to confirm that
you have received your key and ID card.
Keep the key and ID card secure.
Confirm with the chief supervisor that you will attend the
school to receive the secure materials. If, after the key delivery,
you become unavailable to do so, a replacement will be arranged.
Meet with your replacement to hand over the key at the school or at
an agreed place. Complete, sign and return to us the Authority for
transfer of key and ID card form.
Receiving secure (Group B) materialsThe secure (Group B)
materials will be delivered to the school by the courier service
during the week before the test. You must attend the school 20
minutes before the scheduled delivery time to receive the cases
containing the test materials. The QSA will inform you, in writing,
of the date and time of delivery. After you receive this notice,
contact the chief supervisor to confirm your availability.
Both of the chief community representatives must be present when
the materials are delivered.
The chief supervisor will be present and will be wearing a blue
ID badge. Wear the Chief community representatives ID card for the
receipt of materials. Receive all of the cases in the presence of
the chief supervisor. Sign the consignment note from each case and
give the appropriate copy to the courier.
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After the delivery process has been completed with the courier:
Ask the chief supervisor for the Materials supply list Group B (see
page 56). Record the time of delivery on the Materials supply list
Group B. Unlock the cases for the chief supervisor; each chief
community representative is to open at least one case to
make sure that both keys work satisfactorily. Assist the chief
supervisor to check the contents of each case and to check that the
quantities indicated on the
labels on the coloured plastic bags agree with the quantities
indicated on the Materials supply list Group B. Do not allow the
bags containing the secure test materials to be opened at this time
for any reason. Lock the cases after the contents have been
checked. Keep the key secure. Witness the secure storage of the
cases. Sign the Materials supply list Group B. Witness the faxing
of the completed Materials supply list Group B. Phone the Team
Leader (Senior) on (07) 3864 0344 if you have any concerns about
the actions listed here. Confirm with the chief supervisor that you
will be able to attend all four test sessions. Immediately contact
the chief supervisor of the school to which you have been appointed
and the chief
supervisor of the school that nominated you if you will be
unable to attend any of the test sessions.
On the days of the testWear your Chief community representatives
ID card.
Attend all test sessions.
Arrive at the test centre at least 40 minutes before the
starting time for each session.
Under the direction of the chief supervisor unlock the
appropriate cases.
Obtain from the chief supervisor: the envelope containing the
security seals a copy of the Corrections instructions your copy of
the letter approving variation to the conditions to sit the test
for a particular student (if applicable) the absentee sheets for
the particular test session.
Make sure that: any wall charts, maps, posters, artwork, etc. in
the test room/s have been removed, reversed or covered the test
centre environment is not unduly distracting to students students
are seated at least 1.5 metres apart in each direction (from head
to head) students are seated in alphabetical order across the room
except for students who have had variations to their
test conditions approved by the QSA the students seating
positions agree with the way the student numbers are shown on Form
QCS 9 Seating
plan. Comment in writing if necessary and sign the form/s the
cases are opened no earlier than necessary all sealed plastic bags
are opened in your presence no one other than the chief supervisor,
supervisors, chief community representatives and community
representatives has access to the materials and then only to
check contents. Record any discrepancies on the Form QCS 7 Report
from the chief community representative (see pages 61 and 62)
surplus copies of testpapers/response books/response sheets are
placed in one stack in each test room after the testpapers have
been distributed to students.
Note the number of faulty testpapers, if any, that have been
issued to students and note the nature of the faults for recording
later on the QCS Form 7 Report from the chief community
representative.
| DFA 2012 QCS Test Duties of chief community
representatives
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During each test sessionObserve, and report later to the
Assessment Operations Unit on the actual administration of the
test.
Supervise community representatives (if applicable).
Remain separate from other community representatives.
Move quietly around the test room/s.
Wear soft-soled shoes.
Do not disturb students.
Do not sit down.
Limit conversation to what is necessary for the administration
of the test session.
Forty minutes after the start of perusal time, remove the
relevant ID label from the place card for each absent student and
attach the label to the Absentee sheet. Depending on the number of
absent students, you may need to arrange for the Absentee sheet to
be photocopied before you attach any labels. Do not forget the
labels for OP-ineligible students who were not expected to sit the
test.
Do not read or work through the testpapers during the
administration of the test.
Check, and if breaches in any of the following are detected by
community representatives or by you, report immediately to the
chief supervisor: the test is administered according to directions
given by the QSA any special arrangements are made that apply to
your test centre or to students who have been approved
special provision by the QSA the test starts within the
designated times (see page 4). Phone the Team Leader (Senior) on
(07) 3864 0344 if
you become aware of any irregularity the starting and finishing
times for the test session given by the supervisor allow students
the correct amount
of time the supervisors carry out their supervision actively
there are sufficient supervisors (one supervisor per maximum of 25
students sitting the test, excluding the
chief community representatives, community representatives and
the chief supervisor, or one supervisor per maximum of 35 students
if the students are supervised in a single separate group larger
than 75 students)
the supervisors randomly check a minimum of 25% of the students
for unauthorised materials (see pages 6, 13 and 26)
the supervisors respond appropriately to alleged errors in the
testpaper, that is, that they make notes to report to the QSA
afterwards
names of students marked as absent on the QCS Test Attendance
roll report agree with the barcode ID labels you attached to the
relevant Absentee sheet/s
a supervisor accompanies any student who is given permission to
leave the test room or their seat temporarily a supervisor records
the details of the students who leave the test room or their seat
temporarily for reporting
on the QCS Form 11 Register of temporary absence by students
there is no evidence of cheating as far as you can ascertain.
Record all incidents involving possible cheating and
possession or use of unauthorised equipment for reporting
later.
At the end of each test sessionMake sure the total number of
responses collected from the students is the same as the number of
students present. If a student has used a second WT response book
or a second SR testpaper, make sure the second one is stapled
inside the back cover of the first response book/testpaper.
Check the packing of student responses.
Sign the label on each envelope/box to certify that a particular
number of completed student responses are enclosed in the
envelope/box.
Witness the chief supervisor attaching the security seals over
the end of each envelope.
Make sure that all sealed envelopes are placed in the correct
cases and that you lock each case.
Keep the key secure.
Witness the storage of the cases in a safe and secure place.
They are to be kept there until the courier service collects
them.
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After the last test sessionCounter-sign: QCS Test Attendance
roll Form QCS 3 Paper 1 (WT) Absentee sheet Form QCS 4 Paper 2 (MC
I) Absentee sheet Form QCS 5 Paper 3 (SR) Absentee sheet Form QCS 6
Paper 4 (MC II) Absentee sheet Form QCS 9 Seating plan Special
provision response materials form (only if you have students who
have been approved special
provision).
Complete and sign the Travel claim for chief community
representative B (if applicable).
Hand all the above forms and travel claim to the chief
supervisor for return with the other completed documentation.
Lock the cases.
Destroy all the unused security seals.
Complete Form QCS 7 Report from the chief community
representative. If it is necessary to make a detailed statement
about any aspect of the test, staple a signed statement to the
form. Use the small cardboard box, labelled white envelope and the
reply paid postpak padded bag provided to post the following items
to the QSA: key for the cases Chief community representatives ID
card Form QCS 7 Report from the chief community representative.
| DFA 2012 QCS Test Duties of chief community
representatives
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Queensland Studies Authority | 23
Duties of community representativesThe following instructions
are provided for community representatives.
Before the days of the testWith your appointment notice, you
will receive the documents listed below. If they apply to you,
complete and return them to the QSA in the reply paid envelope by
the end of August. Tax file number declaration (if you have not
worked for the QSA previously or if you have previously worked
for
the QSA and your taxation details have changed) Electronic funds
transfer (EFT) form (if you have not worked for the QSA previously
or if you have previously
worked for the QSA and your bank and/or personal details have
changed).
Contact the chief supervisor of the school to which you have
been appointed to confirm that you accept the appointment and to
find out the specific times and place for the test sessions.
If you will not be available for any of the test sessions,
contact the chief supervisor of the school immediately.
Become familiar with the administrative procedures for the test
as outlined in this handbook.
On the days of the testAsk the chief supervisor for your
Community representatives ID card. Wear your Community
representatives ID card.
Attend all test sessions. Arrive at the test centre at least 20
minutes before the starting time for each session.
During each test sessionObserve, and report later to a chief
community representative on the actual administration of the
test.
Tell a chief community representative immediately if you have
concerns about any aspect of the administration of the test.
Remain separate from other community representatives.
Move quietly around the test room/s.
Wear soft-soled shoes.
Do not disturb students.
Do not sit down.
Limit conversation to what is necessary for the administration
of the test session.
Do not read or work through any testpapers during the
administration of the test.
Check that: the supervisors carry out their supervision actively
the supervisors respond appropriately to alleged errors in the
testpaper, that is, they make notes and report to
the QSA afterwards. Report all such incidents to a chief
community representative, who will report to the QSA after the last
test session
a supervisor accompanies any student given permission to leave
the test room or their seat temporarily.
At the end of each test sessionReport to a chief community
representative: incidents when a supervisor did not respond
appropriately to alleged errors in the content of the testpaper
incidents of cheating or suspected cheating possession of
unauthorised equipment by students incidents that indicate that the
test is not administered according to directions given by the
QSA.
After the last test sessionHand your Community representatives
ID card to the chief supervisor for return to the QSA.
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Duties of supervisorsThe following instructions are provided for
supervisors.
Before the days of the testPrepare for your supervision of test
sessions by: attending briefing/s by the chief supervisor reading
the relevant sections of this handbook thoroughly.
On the days of the testBe on time for your supervision
duties.
Carry out duties as required by the chief supervisor.
Take into the test room only materials considered by the chief
supervisor to be necessary for the test session.
Do not read or work through any testpapers.
During each test session
Supervising the testFollow the directions for the administration
of each test session. Writing Task (see page 30) Multiple Choice
(see page 38) Short Response (see page 46).
Read the instructions to students indicated by the symbol
exactly as printed withi