Key Stage 2 (SATs)

The SATs mathematics tests are designed to be accessible while challenging pupils to demonstrate their understanding across the full primary mathematics curriculum. They form an important transition point between primary and secondary education in the UK system.
Key Features:

• Officially called "End of Key Stage 2 Tests"

• Three separate papers

• All tests are written, with strict time limits

• Taken by Year 6 pupils (age 10-11)

• Usually administered in May

Paper Structure:

1. Arithmetic Paper (Paper 1)

• Duration: 30 minutes

• 40 marks

• Focus on numerical calculations

• No calculator allowed

• Questions test:

  • Written methods for all operations

  • Fractions, decimals, and percentages calculations

  • Order of operations

2. Mathematical Reasoning Paper 1 (Paper 2)

• Duration: 40 minutes

• 35 marks

• Calculator allowed

• Focuses on:

  • Problem-solving

  • Mathematical fluency

  • Mathematical reasoning

  • Real-world applications

3. Mathematical Reasoning Paper 2 (Paper 3)

• Duration: 40 minutes

• 35 marks

• Calculator allowed

• Similar to Paper 2 but with different questions

• Tests application of mathematical knowledge

Content Areas Tested:

1. Number and Place Value

• Understanding numbers up to 10 million

• Negative numbers

• Rounding

• Roman numerals

2. Calculations

• All four operations

• Mental methods

• Written methods

• Multi-step problems

3. Fractions, Decimals, and Percentages

• Equivalent fractions

• Adding/subtracting fractions

• Multiplying/dividing fractions

• Converting between formats

4. Ratio and Proportion

• Scaling

• Unequal sharing

• Percentage problems

5. Algebra

• Simple formulae

• Number sequences

• Missing number problems

6. Measurement

• Converting units

• Perimeter and area

• Volume

• Time

7. Geometry

• Properties of shapes

• Position and direction

• Angles

• Symmetry

8. Statistics

• Interpreting data

• Graphs and charts

• Mean averages

Scoring and Results:

• Raw marks are converted to scaled scores

• Scale runs from 80 to 120

• 100 represents the expected standard

• Results typically released in July

• Three possible outcomes:

  • Working towards the expected standard (below 100)

  • Working at the expected standard (100 or above)

  • Working at greater depth (higher scores, typically 110+)