The International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS) is an internationally recognised skills-based assessment run by UNSW Global. Each year, students from primary to secondary levels take part in ICAS across English, Mathematics, Science, Writing, and Digital Technologies.
Unlike school exams that test curriculum content, ICAS is designed to assess higher-order thinking, application of knowledge, and problem-solving skills. This makes it both challenging and rewarding—it highlights not just what students know, but also how they think.
With the results released this week, here’s a closer look at what each subject involves and how students can improve their performance.
English
What ICAS tests:
ICAS English assesses reading and language skills. Students face multiple-choice questions on comprehension, interpretation, vocabulary, and textual analysis. The exam goes beyond simple recall—it tests whether students can understand implied meaning, identify tone, and evaluate the effectiveness of language.
How to improve:
- Daily reading habit: Encourage exposure to novels, articles, essays, and poetry.
- Active reading strategies: Summarise each paragraph, highlight arguments, and discuss the author’s purpose.
- Expand vocabulary: Keep a word journal and practice contextual usage.
- Practice inference: Go beyond literal meanings to detect themes, mood, and intention.
- Timed comprehension drills: Build exam stamina with 20–30 minute practice sessions.
Mathematics
What ICAS tests:
ICAS Mathematics evaluates logical reasoning and problem-solving across number, algebra, geometry, statistics, and probability. Rather than repeating schoolwork, it often presents unfamiliar, puzzle-like problems that require creativity and persistence.
How to improve:
- Master the basics: Ensure fluency in arithmetic, fractions, ratios, and algebra.
- Problem-solving focus: Tackle puzzles and word problems that involve multiple steps.
- Error analysis: After each test, ask whether mistakes came from misreading, calculation slips, or conceptual gaps.
- Practice under time limits: Sharpen speed and accuracy.
- Apply maths to life: Estimate shopping discounts, interpret graphs in the news, or calculate travel times.
Science
What ICAS tests:
ICAS Science assesses scientific reasoning, not just memorisation. Students interpret experiments, analyse data, and apply concepts from biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences to new situations. Many questions involve diagrams, charts, or case studies.
How to improve:
- Understand key principles: Focus on “why and how” rather than rote definitions.
- Data interpretation practice: Work with graphs, charts, and scientific experiments.
- Hands-on exploration: Conduct small at-home experiments to reinforce theory.
- Ask critical questions: Develop inquiry skills by asking “What would happen if…?”
- Review past ICAS questions: Get familiar with applied science scenarios.
Writing
What ICAS tests:
ICAS Writing is a timed assessment where students must produce a written response based on a given prompt. Depending on the year level, the task may be narrative (storytelling) or persuasive (argument-based). The test evaluates structure, creativity, clarity, grammar, and style.
How to improve:
- Know different text types: Learn the features of narrative, persuasive, and informative writing.
- Plan before writing: Use a quick outline to organise thoughts.
- Strong introductions and conclusions: Engage the reader early and wrap up effectively.
- Work on grammar and flow: Edit drafts for clarity and precision.
- Timed practice: Write short pieces within 20–30 minutes.
Digital Technologies
What ICAS tests:
ICAS Digital Technologies assesses computational thinking, algorithms, data representation, and logical problem-solving. Students may face scenarios involving coding principles, pattern recognition, and information systems.
How to improve:
- Learn basic coding: Practice with Scratch, Python, or other beginner platforms.
- Understand data structures: Convert between binary, text, and visual data.
- Break problems into steps: Practice decomposition and sequencing.
- Logical games: Solve puzzles like Sudoku or logic grids to strengthen reasoning.
- Stay curious about tech: Read about AI, cybersecurity, or robotics to connect learning with real life.
Final Thoughts
ICAS results should be seen as a diagnostic tool, not just a score. They show where students excel and where they need extra support. With consistent practice, targeted strategies, and the right guidance, every student can make significant progress before the next ICAS sitting.
At RL Education, we specialise in helping students improve across ICAS subjects. Our tutors provide tailored programs that strengthen core knowledge, sharpen problem-solving skills, and build exam confidence.
👉 Find out more about how RL Education can support your child’s success at RL Education.
