  We exploit a multivariate multilevel model for the analysis of the Italian
sample of the TIMSS\&PIRLS 2011 Combined International Database on fourth grade
students. The multivariate approach jointly considers educational achievement
on Reading, Mathematics and Science, thus allowing us to test for differential
associations of the covariates with the three outcomes, and to estimate the
residual correlations between pairs of outcomes at student and class levels.
Multilevel modelling allows us to disentangle student and contextual factors
affecting achievement. We also account for territorial differences in wealth by
means of an index from an external source. The model residuals point out
classes with high or low performance. As educational achievement is measured by
plausible values, the estimates are obtained through multiple imputation
formulas. The results, while confirming the role of traditional student and
contextual factors, reveal interesting patterns of achievement in Italian
primary schools.
