NCERT Plans Foundational Learning Assessment for Class 3 Students in Delhi, Shares Assessment Format with Schools
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) is preparing to assess the foundational learning levels of Class 3 students studying in schools across Delhi during the academic year 2025–26. As part of this initiative, NCERT has already shared sample assessment tasks with schools to help teachers and students understand the assessment format and process in advance.
According to official information, this exercise is aimed at evaluating the overall learning comprehension of students at the primary level. To ensure clarity and preparedness, NCERT has circulated these sample assessment materials in both English and Hindi. The move is intended to familiarise teachers and students with the type of activities involved, rather than to test them under exam conditions.
Foundation Learning Study planned for 2026
NCERT has announced that it will conduct a Foundation Learning Study (FLS) for students currently enrolled in Class 3. The study is expected to take place between February and March 2026 in selected sample schools in Delhi. The list of participating schools will be shared well in advance to allow adequate preparation.
Officials stated that the purpose of the Foundation Learning Study is to understand how well students have acquired basic learning skills by the end of the early years of schooling. This includes assessing whether children can read with understanding, express their thoughts in writing, and apply basic mathematical concepts confidently.
The Delhi State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) has clarified that this initiative is a joint effort between SCERT and NCERT. The findings from the study are expected to play a key role in strengthening classroom practices and improving foundational education outcomes.
Focus on reading, writing, and numeracy skills
The Foundation Learning Study has been designed as a system-level exercise rather than an individual student test. Its main focus areas include reading comprehension, writing ability, and basic numeracy skills. By evaluating these core competencies, NCERT aims to gain a clearer picture of students’ learning progress at the primary stage.
Education officials explained that the data collected through this study will help identify learning gaps at an early stage. This, in turn, will allow schools and teachers to implement targeted interventions in classrooms. The ultimate goal is to ensure that students build a strong academic foundation, which is critical for their future learning journey.
Sample assessment tasks shared with teachers
As part of the preparation process, NCERT has circulated sample assessment tasks to teachers and students. These tasks are meant to serve as practice material and are designed to boost confidence among students. Teachers are encouraged to actively engage students while practising these sample activities so that they become comfortable with the format.
School principals and heads have been instructed to ensure that Class 3 teachers use these materials effectively. Schools have also been advised to create similar practice questions and activities to strengthen students’ basic skills and reinforce conceptual understanding.
Importantly, NCERT has made it clear that the Foundation Learning Study is not an examination. There will be no grading, ranking, or certification of students based on this exercise. Additionally, the study is not intended to evaluate or rate schools in any manner.
Aligned with National Education Policy 2020
NCERT emphasised that the primary objective of the Foundation Learning Study is to support evidence-based decision-making. The insights gained will help in shaping education policies, improving teaching strategies, and aligning classroom practices with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
By focusing on foundational literacy and numeracy, the initiative seeks to strengthen early education and ensure that students develop essential skills at the right stage. Education experts believe that such assessments, when used constructively, can significantly improve learning outcomes and help build a stronger education system.
Overall, NCERT’s planned assessment reflects a shift towards understanding learning levels rather than testing rote knowledge. With early preparation, transparent communication, and a non-exam-based approach, the initiative aims to support students, teachers, and schools in strengthening foundational education across Delhi.
