1. Attached are the Continuous Assessment (CASS) Guidelines for Grades 7, 8 and 9 (see Circular 0155/2002). The guidelines, which are in line with those of the national Department of Education, serve to bring continuity into assessment within the Senior Phase of the General Education and Training Band.
2. EMDC curriculum staff will support schools with these guidelines which must be implemented this year (2003).
3. The documents are bound in such a way that each booklet contains generic guidelines (Section A) as well as learning area specific guidelines (Section B). Principals and educators are requested to familiarise themselves with the guidelines, and especially with the generic section.
4. Important elements to remember are the following:
4.1 Planning must begin with the outcomes of the learning area. Attention must also be given to the forms of assessment and assessment tools to be used in a specific learning programme.
4.2 Forms of assessment: All learners must be assessed in at least five different forms of assessment in each learning area. Educators must ascertain which forms of assessment are required by their learning areas. One best example of each form of assessment must be used for recording and moderation purposes. However, educators must ensure that assessment takes place continuously and appropriately throughout the year as it will inform and support teaching and learning.
4.3 Recording: in marks and percentages
4.4 Reporting: in level descriptor codes according to the following national coding system: 
LEVEL CODE     LEVEL DESCRIPTOR         PERCENTAGES

     1            Not achieved                0% to 34%

     2            Partially achieved         35% to 39%

     3            Achieved                   40% to 69%

     4            Outstanding or
                  excellent achievement      70% and higher










4.5 

The recording and reporting scales of NY-5 and 1-10 (see Circular 136/2000) will be discontinued in Grades 7 and 8 as from January 2003.








5. 
Please bring the contents of this circular to the attention of all concerned, including educators, parents and learners.








6. 
Enquiries regarding the contents of this circular may be directed to directors and chief curriculum advisors attached to EMDCs.









SIGNED: P.A. VINJEVOLD

HEAD: EDUCATION

DATE: 2003:01:13

















The documents, which are referred to as annexures to the circular, are not attached but are available as hard copies.