Helping African Kids in Italy Pass Their INVALSI: Essential Tips for Success

For many African immigrant children in Italy, the INVALSI exams can be challenging, especially if Italian is not their first language. These standardised tests assess students’ skills in mathematics, Italian, and English and are an essential part of their academic journey. However, with the right preparation, any child can succeed!

This guide offers practical tips to help African kids in Italy confidently prepare for and pass their INVALSI exams.

Understanding the INVALSI Exam

Before diving into preparation, it's important to know what the INVALSI tests include:

• Italian Language: Reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary

• Mathematics: problem-solving, calculations, and logical reasoning

• English (for higher grades): Reading and listening comprehension

The tests are computer-based for some grades and are compulsory in Grades 2, 5, 8, and high school.

1. Strengthening Italian Language Skills

Many African children face difficulties with Italian, especially if they speak another language at home. Here’s how to improve their skills:

📚 Encourage Daily Reading: Short stories, newspapers, and online articles in Italian can help expand vocabulary.

🎧 Practice Listening Skills Watching Italian cartoons, TV shows, and YouTube videos with subtitles makes learning fun.

✍🏾 Improve Writing and Speaking Keeping a daily journal in Italian and engaging in conversations with native speakers builds confidence.

📖 Use Language Apps: Free apps like Duolingo, Babbel, and Rai Scuola can make learning interactive and enjoyable.

💡 Parental Tip: Even if parents are not fluent in Italian, they should try learning basic phrases to support their children.

2. Mastering Mathematics with Practice

Math can be tricky, especially when children are still adapting to the Italian education system. Here’s how to make it easier:

➗ Focus on Word Problems: Many INVALSI math questions require understanding written problems before solving them.

📝 Use Past INVALSI Papers: Practicing previous exams helps students get familiar with question formats.

🧩 Make Learning Fun: Math games, puzzles, and educational apps like Khan Academy, Matematica.it, or Redooc make learning engaging.

💡 Parental Tip: Relating math to daily life activities like shopping or cooking can make concepts more relatable for kids.

3. Preparing for the English Section (Higher Grades)

Many African children already speak English, but the exam format can still be tricky.

📖 Read English Books & Articles: Simple stories, magazines, and online blogs improve comprehension.

🎧 Practice Listening: Watching movies or listening to English podcasts with subtitles enhances understanding.

✍🏾 Do Online Exercises: Websites like British Council Learn English and Cambridge English provide free resources tailored for students.

4. Getting Familiar with Online Testing (For Older Grades)

INVALSI tests are computer-based for some grades, so children should practice:

🖥️ Typing answers on a computer
⌨️ Navigating digital test formats
⏳ Managing time effectively during exams

💡 Tip: The official INVALSI website (INVALSIopen.it) has free practice tests for students to try!

5. Reducing Test Anxiety and Staying Motivated

Exams can be stressful, but confidence is key!

😌 Stay Calm: Teach children relaxation techniques like deep breathing before the test.
🕑 Practice time management: encourage students to pace themselves and avoid rushing.
🎯 Set small goals and celebrate progress to keep motivation high.

💡 Parental Tip: Remind kids that INVALSI is just one step in their education—doing their best is what matters!

6. Parental Support: The Key to Success

Parents play a big role in their children’s academic success. Here’s how they can help:

✅ Create a Study Routine: A structured schedule ensures kids have enough time to prepare.
✅ Join a Study Group: Connecting with other African families offers a support system.
✅ Encourage and Praise: Celebrating small improvements builds confidence.

💡 Tip: Parents should attend school meetings to understand their children’s progress and how best to support them.

Conclusion: Success is Possible!

With proper preparation, practice, and confidence, African children in Italy can excel in the INVALSI exams. By improving Italian, practicing math, and using the right study resources, they can perform well and thrive in school.

👨‍👩‍👧 Do you have questions or need support? Join our African Parents in Italy Community for resources, advice, and encouragement! 💬😊