Ace the GL Assessments
Year 4 & Year 6 Guide
Report season is stressful. We explain the PTM, PTE, and PTS, and how they differ from CAT4 exams in the British Curriculum.
The "Gap" Warning
Dubai schools look for a gap between your child's CAT4 Prediction (Potential) and their GL Result (Performance). If a gap exists, the school will flag this as "underperformance."
Video Guide: Decoding PTM, PTE & The 'Academic Gap'
Quick Answer: CAT4 vs. GL Assessments
The most common confusion for parents at schools like JESS or DBS is the difference between these two acronyms. Here is the breakdown:
| Feature | CAT4 (Cognitive Abilities) | GL Assessments (PTM/PTE) |
|---|---|---|
| What it measures | Potential (IQ, Reasoning) | Attainment (Curriculum Knowledge) |
| Content | Shapes, Patterns, Analogies | Maths (Calculations), English (Spelling/Comp) |
| Preparation | Hard to "revise" facts. | Highly Revisable. Based on what was taught. |
| KHDA Impact | Sets the "Expected Target" | Shows if the student "Met the Target" |
What are PTM, PTE, and PTS?
GL Assessments (formerly NFER) are standardized tests used by British International schools to benchmark students against the UK national average. You will see these acronyms on your report:
➗ PTM (Progress Test in Maths)
Assesses fluency in calculation, reasoning, and problem-solving. In Year 6, this covers fractions, decimals, percentages, and basic algebra.
📝 PTE (Progress Test in English)
Two parts: A rigorous spelling/grammar check and a reading comprehension paper. This is often where "native speakers" lose marks due to lack of technical grammar knowledge.
🔬 PTS (Progress Test in Science)
Usually introduced in Key Stage 2. It tests Biology, Chemistry, and Physics concepts appropriate for the age group.
The Critical Years: Year 4 & Year 6
While GLs happen every year, two years carry significantly more weight in the Dubai education ecosystem.
Year 4: The "Intervention" Year
By Year 4, the curriculum shifts from "learning to read" to "reading to learn." If a student's PTE scores drop here, it indicates they are struggling with the increased complexity of texts. Schools often use Year 4 data to invite parents for "Intervention Meetings."
Year 6: The "High Stakes" Transfer
This is the most critical assessment in Primary School. Year 6 GL results directly influence:
- Secondary School Acceptance: Some competitive schools (like Dubai College or DESC) review these reports for external applicants.
- Streaming (Sets): Your child's Year 7 Math set is usually determined by their Year 6 PTM score. Being in a lower set can limit access to the "Higher Tier" IGCSE paper later on.
How to Prepare (Without Panic)
Unlike CAT4, you can and should prepare for GL assessments, as they test curriculum knowledge.
- Identify Gaps: Look at last year's report. Did they score lower in "Number" or "Geometry"? Focus there.
- Technical English: Ensure your child knows what a "subordinate clause" or "fronted adverbial" is. These technical terms appear in the PTE.
- Timed Practice: Many students fail to finish the paper. Practice working under timed conditions.
Secure Their Year 7 Math Set
Ensure your child finishes Year 6 with a "High" or "Very High" PTM score. Our tutors specialize in the GL curriculum framework.
Book a GL Assessment Tutor