Methodology

Traceable assessment evidence from response to placement conclusion.

The Alinha Placement Tool is designed around a core principle: placement decisions should be supported by evidence that is transparent, reviewable, and explicitly aligned with the curriculum framework in which it is applied.

1. Assess demonstrated competencies

The assessment evaluates demonstrated competencies across relevant domains and records structured item level evidence that remains available for subsequent review.

2. Structure evidence by competency

Response evidence is associated with the competencies it is intended to measure, enabling identification of consistently demonstrated attainment, mixed evidence, and areas requiring further assessment or instruction.

3. Align evidence with Portugal's National Curriculum

Demonstrated competencies are aligned with the relevant Aprendizagens Essenciais by year and subject. The broader Perfil dos Alunos à Saída da Escolaridade Obrigatória provides additional context for interpreting attainment within Portugal's National Curriculum.

4. Preserve evidence traceability

Families can review assessment items and response outcomes. Evaluators can inspect questions, response options, designated correct answers, and associated competencies, preserving traceability from source evidence to reported conclusion.

5. Inform professional judgment

The Alinha Placement Tool supports professional decision making; it does not replace the statutory authority of schools or the professional judgment of qualified evaluators. Its purpose is to provide a transparent and structured evidence base for those decisions.