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Frequently Asked Questions
Do we really need a test for children?
STYLE looks great but is it a serious test?
Our school has its own progress test. Why do we need STYLE?
If no-one fails, how can we tell if a student has done well?
What text books do I have to buy to prepare for STYLE?
Testing is frightening and puts children under pressure, doesn't it?
Who else is using STYLE?
Can we compare STYLE tests to adult tests such as TOEFL and IELTS?
Do we really need a test for children?
Teachers test their students in the classroom all the time, always checking that the lessons they teach have succeeded in their purpose. STYLE uses task-based testing methods, which means that it tests children through the normal classroom activities that teachers set every day.
STYLE looks great but is it a serious test?
Learning doesn't have to be boring. Young children learn through play. STYLE recognizes this, creating a fun environment while at the same time providing an objective means of measuring progress.
Our school has its own progress test. Why do we need STYLE?
STYLE gives you an independent assessment of your students that relieves some of the pressure on your teachers. In addition, schools can use STYLE tests to encourage students to re-enroll for a further course of English. Schools also make a commission on STYLE tests they sell.
If no-one fails, how can we tell if a student has done well?
Students' results are shown in two different ways - a number indicating their total score, and a 'lion' rating showing their achievement within a level. In addition, schools receive a breakdown of the listening and reading scores.
What text books do I have to buy to prepare for STYLE?
You don't. The STYLE syllabus draws from the syllabi of many current popular children's text books, so you can continue to use the materials you are familiar with. A comparison between the syllabus for your course and the STYLE syllabus for each level will let you see any additional topics that may need to be covered.
Testing is frightening and puts children under pressure, doesn't it?
Yes, we agree, it can be. Saxoncourt knows that tests can make students nervous, so we designed STYLE to be colorful and fun to do, reducing the chances of nerves. The language is natural and realistic, just like the English used in your classrooms. In addition, the test takes place in the familiar surroundings of the students' own classroom and school. Finally, there is no oral interview. We know how frightening that can be for children (and adults)!
Who else is using STYLE?
STYLE is used by 12,000+ students in Japan, 15,000 students in Taiwan and by schools elsewhere in Asia, Europe and South America.
Can we compare STYLE tests to adult tests such as TOEFL and IELTS?
No, those tests fulfill a totally different purpose. Their roles are to objectively assess English ability for purposes of employment, study or immigration. They are serious, challenging tests. On the other hand, the role of STYLE is to motivate children to further study of English and to provide their parents with an objective assessment of their progress. STYLE is a motivating and fun test.
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