The Broader the Better
Michael Buckingham Gray • November 17, 2023
Essential to Read Widely
When parents ask what the reading comprehension component of the GATE test is like, I reply that it is broad. Very broad!
The Department of Education in its official GATE Parent Presentation indicates that students may be tested on their ability to “understand and interpret a range of texts, which may include fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and drama, together with diagrams, tables, charts or maps.”
Compare this to what the government post on their website of what Year Sevens may be tested on for NAPLAN - just non-fiction – and the difference could not be starker.
The message, then, is clear. The earlier GATE students interact with a wide range of texts, the better.
Parents can assist their children by buying poetry, or by discussing tables and charts the next time they appear in the newspaper. Parents can also help their children by booking them into Intuition’s GATE preparation classes - classes that will give an overview of all these texts and broaden their comprehension skills.

Choosing the right tutor for your child can be challenging due to the industry's lack of regulation. This blog post provides essential tips for parents, emphasizing the importance of selecting tutors from reputable tutoring centres. It highlights key factors to consider, such as a tutor's qualifications, accreditation from the Australian Tutoring Association (ATA), and industry experience. The post also addresses budget concerns and offers practical advice for ensuring your child receives effective tutoring support.