Question Level Analysis (QLA)

 

We’ve explored the art of questioning and how the right questions can unlock a deeper understanding for your students. Now, we’re taking things one step further with Question Level Analysis (QLA) - a practical tool to help you dig even deeper into your student’s performance. 

QLA isn’t just about identifying what’s right or wrong; it’s about understanding the why behind it. Let’s dive into what a QLA is, the benefits, and how you can start using it to transform your tutoring sessions.

What is QLA?

At its core, a QLA sheet breaks down a student’s performance, highlighting strengths and gaps. Think of it as a roadmap, showing which areas they've mastered and which need more attention, with a clear visual summary of each test question alongside the skills it assesses.

It’s all about breaking down questions to understand:

  • What’s being asked: What skill or knowledge is the question testing?

  • How your student responds: Where are they strong, and where do they struggle?

By analysing patterns in their answers, you can pinpoint areas that need a little extra TLC and adjust your approach accordingly.

Why does it matter?

Imagine you’re helping a student revise for a maths test. You notice they’re great at solving equations but consistently stumble when faced with word problems. Without QLA, you might only spot this pattern after weeks of trial and error. With QLA? You’ll spot it immediately and can focus on exactly what they need.

It’s like having a cheat sheet for their brain - you’re not just teaching, you’re targeting.

How to use QLA in your tutoring

Creating a QLA sheet doesn’t require fancy software or hours of work - it can be done in a notebook, spreadsheet, or even on a printed table. Here’s how to get started:

1. Break down the questions
Take a set of questions (from classwork, homework, or past papers) and group them by topic or skill. For example, in English, group by grammar, comprehension, or vocabulary. In maths, group by fractions, equations, or problem-solving.

2. Track responses
Mark whether the student got each question right or wrong.

3. Spot the patterns
Track where your student excels and where they need more support. For example, are they losing marks because they don’t understand the wording, or because they’re making simple calculation errors?

4. Plan your sessions
Use this insight to focus your teaching. Reinforce weak areas and build on their strengths. Once you know their level, ask questions that are just beyond their comfort zone. Not too easy, not too hard - just right for growth.

The Beauty of QLA

The beauty of a QLA sheet is that it takes the guesswork out of planning. Instead of a generic review, you’re targeting exactly what your student needs. This means faster progress, more confidence, and better outcomes - not to mention it saves you time by making your sessions laser-focused.

Here’s a quick example of QLA in action:

You’re working on percentages with a student, and they can calculate simple ones (e.g., 10% of 50) but struggle with trickier multi-step problems.

Using QLA, you notice:

  • They understand percentages conceptually.

  • The issue arises when calculations involve multiple operations.

Solution? Spend a session focusing on breaking problems into manageable steps.

A Challenge For You!

Try creating a QLA sheet for a student you’re working with. It doesn’t have to be complicated - just pick a recent test or worksheet and break it down into questions, skills, and outcomes. Look for patterns: are there particular skills or topics that need extra focus? Share the sheet with your student and use it to guide your next session. Not only will this help them see their progress, but it’ll also encourage them to take ownership of their learning.

As always, we’d love to hear how you’re finding these strategies. Have a go at this challenge and let us know how it works for you!

 
PedagogyJennifer Haynes