Continuous assessment, or CA, is the part of a pupil's term score that is earned during the term, before the exam. It rewards steady work. But many schools struggle with it: how many tests should teachers set, what counts as CA, and how do you keep the marks fair?
This guide gives a simple structure you can adopt.
What counts as continuous assessment
CA is any assessment of a pupil's work during the term. Common types:
- Class tests and quizzes, written in class.
- Assignments and homework, done at home or in class.
- Projects and practical work, such as a science practical or a short research task.
- Class participation and attendance, if your school chooses to score them.
Use the types that suit the subject. Mathematics may lean on tests, while Agricultural Science may include a project.
How many CA items per term?
A common pattern is two tests and one assignment or project in each subject, spread across the term. This gives you enough marks to be fair without overloading teachers or pupils.
| Week | CA item | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | First class test | 10 |
| 7 | Assignment or project | 10 |
| 9 | Second class test | 10 |
| Total CA | 30 |
If your CA is out of 40, adjust the marks for each item. Read how to choose a CA and exam score split to decide the split.
Rules to keep CA fair
- Tell pupils the dates and marks at the start of the term. Surprises make parents suspicious.
- Use the same number of CA items for every class in the same subject.
- Mark and return scripts quickly, so pupils learn from mistakes.
- Keep a record sheet with the date, the maximum mark and each pupil's score.
- Decide what happens to a missed test. Allow a make-up with a good reason, and record zero without one.
- Do not let CA hide a weak exam. A very high CA with a poor exam may need a conversation, but changing marks to "balance" them is not allowed.
Sharing CA with parents early
Many parents want to see progress before the final exam. Releasing CA marks around the middle of the term lets them help their child while there is still time. It also reduces surprises on result day.
Common mistakes
- Putting everything in one test. One bad day then decides the whole CA.
- Marks that do not add up to the CA maximum. Check the total before the term begins.
- Teachers using different rules for the same subject in different arms.
- Entering CA late, so the broadsheet is delayed.
Frequently asked questions
What is continuous assessment in school?
It is the assessment of a pupil's work during the term, such as tests, assignments and projects. The marks earned are added to the exam mark to give the final score for each subject.
How many CA tests should a teacher give in a term?
Two tests and one assignment or project is a common and manageable pattern. Spread them across the term and tell pupils the dates at the start.
How many marks should CA carry?
Many schools use 30 or 40 out of 100, with the exam carrying the rest. Choose a split, put it in your policy, and use it for every class.
Can parents see CA scores before the exam?
Yes, if your school chooses to release them. Many schools do this around the middle of the term so parents can support their child.
How StudyPat helps
In StudyPat you set up CA and Examination as separate score columns, and teachers enter the marks for each. CA scores can be shown to parents on a separate CA report, before the final result, if CA publishing is switched on for your school. Once a CA is published, its scores are locked so they cannot be changed quietly. See how the broadsheet brings the scores together.