The research indicates that improving learning through assessment depends on five, deceptively simple, key factors:

·     the provision of effective feedback to pupils;

·     the active involvement of pupils in their own learning;

·     adjusting teaching to take account of the results of assessment;

·     a recognition of the profound influence assessment has on the motivation and  self-esteem of pupils,

·        the need for pupils to be able to assess themselves and understand how to improve.

                             (Beyond the Black Box.  Assessment Reform Group 1999)