The Portuguese assessment tests for the elementary level were held for the first time in the Azores, replacing the external summative assessment test. The tests were carried out normally at 36 schools from the regional educational system, including 6 private schools.

A total of 2761 students from the 4th grade took the Portuguese Assessment Test whilst the Math Assessment Test was taken by a total of 2756 4th grade students. The tests were graded by 142 elementary school teachers.

The Portuguese Assessment Test registered an average score of 65% in the Azores, hence converging to the national average - 66%. The statistical distribution of the results registered 27% at level B - Good/Level 4 and 33% at level C - Fair/Level 3.

In turn, the Math Assessment Test, which evaluated the contents of the new programme introduced this year, registered an average score of 37%; levels B and C registered a lower percentage - 35%.

The analysis of the results of the Portuguese and Math Assessment Tests, now released, is important for promoting teaching practices that might contribute to a gradual improvement of quality.