Developing multi-level PISA test questions to enhance natural science literacy

Today, a functionally literate student is an indicator of the quality of education. Knowledge alone is no longer enough. The focus has shifted to the ability to use the acquired information and skills in real-life situations.

Örken East Kazakhstan Regional Scientific and Methodological Center for Informatization and Education Development of Education Administration of East Kazakhstan region, jointly with a teacher of physics Kristina A. Makashina from NIS of Chemistry and Biology of Ust-Kamenogorsk city, held a workshop as part of the vacation school program on the topic: “Developing multi-level PISA test questions to enhance natural science literacy” for teachers of physics of schools of the region with the Russian language of instruction.

The workshop focused on putting theoretical knowledge of natural science literacy (physics) into practice through PISA test questions and on developing original assignments based on the required topics.  

The goal of the workshop was to enhance the level of scientific and natural science literacy of the participants, to introduce the assessment criteria and key aspects of PISA, to develop effective teaching skills in physics by discussing tasks from 3 to 6 levels of complexity, to examine examples of standard tasks that meet international standards on the subject of Physics.  

Upon completion of the workshop, the participants will be able to analyze the different types of scientific education, types of contexts, complexity levels, competencies, examine examples of standard tasks in physics that meet international standards, and apply these tasks in their teaching practice.

By developing graded assignments based on the PISA methodology, teachers can promote the development of scientific and natural literacy, enhance students’ critical thinking skills, problem solving abilities and the application of scientific knowledge.