Choose NAPLAN practice for their year
Year level gives practice its context. A Year 3 learner getting used to an online question has different needs from a Year 9 learner explaining an algebraic solution. Use the year guides below for original questions with worked answers and a practical focus for each domain.
If a question is too difficult, look at the underlying skill before moving to another full paper. If it is comfortable, ask the learner to explain their reasoning. Correct answers with a clear explanation are more useful than fast guesses.
Where to find free NAPLAN practice
“Free NAPLAN practice test” can describe several different resources. Check whether you need an account, whether answers are included, and whether the resource is a short sample or a complete paper.
| Resource | Useful for | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Official public demonstration site | Trying the online question types and controls | Free familiarisation; answers are not supplied. |
| ACARA past papers | Reading printed questions and checking published answers | Released papers from 2012–2016; the format is historical. |
| Examples in these TestHero guides | Discussing a few questions and worked solutions | Free to read here, with no account needed. |
| TestHero readiness check | Getting a first indication of practice strengths and a focus area | One free reduced-scope check per learner; a parent account is required. |
Official guidance: NAP: Public demonstration tests · ACARA: Past test papers and answers, 2012–2016
Choose the subject that needs attention
Reading practice should lead back to the passage: which words support the answer? Numeracy practice should make the strategy visible: why did the learner choose that operation? For Writing, read the whole response before focusing on a sentence. For Conventions of Language, ask the learner to explain the rule in context.
You do not need to practise every domain in one sitting. Pick a purpose, try a manageable amount of work, and leave time to review. The domain guides include examples and questions adults can use to start that conversation.
Online tests, sample papers and past papers
Use a paper resource to slow down and discuss a method. Use an online resource to practise reading instructions, selecting an answer and moving between questions. These are different learning purposes, so one resource does not need to do everything.
NAPLAN’s online tests include a tailored design. A fixed set of practice questions cannot reproduce every pathway or convert a percentage into an official result. TestHero provides independent NAPLAN-style practice with original material.
Official guidance: NAP: How tailored tests work
How to use a practice test well
Full TestHero papers and detailed reports require paid home access or a school licence. Check the paper and your access before starting. A form entitlement or assignment allows one attempt at that form; further practice uses another available paper.
- Before starting, choose one purpose: format familiarity, independent work or a particular skill.
- Let the learner attempt the work before discussing answers. Record any help given.
- Review one secure answer and one uncertain answer. Ask what made each one different.
- Choose a follow-up activity: reread a paragraph, model a calculation or revise a piece of writing.
- Return to a different example later to see whether the idea transfers.
Frequently asked questions
Are NAPLAN practice tests free?
The official demonstration site and ACARA’s released past papers are free resources. Our guide examples are also free to read. TestHero offers one free reduced-scope readiness check per learner; full papers and detailed reports require access.
Where can I find NAPLAN practice tests with answers?
The year and domain guides here include original examples with explained answers. ACARA’s 2012–2016 past-paper collection includes published answer sheets. The official online demonstration tests do not provide answers.
Should we use Year 3, 5, 7 or 9 practice?
Begin with the learner’s current NAPLAN year. If a skill needs more support, work on that skill directly and discuss suitable next steps with the teacher.
Does a practice percentage predict a NAPLAN proficiency level?
No. An independent practice score describes that practice attempt. It is not an official NAPLAN scale score or a reliable conversion to a proficiency level.
Check the official guidance.
Reviewed by TestHero on . Official facts are drawn from the sources below. Examples, prompts and learning suggestions are original TestHero material.
- NAP: Public demonstration tests
- ACARA: Past test papers and answers, 2012–2016
- NAP: How tailored tests work
TestHero is an independent practice product. Practice results are not official NAPLAN scores. Check the school and current official guidance for administration details.