Testing Season
by Greg Adams
February 08, 2010
As you hear about testing going on at MPS, I thought some of you might appreciate a glossary to have a better understanding of what we are expecting from your student:
NWEA – This is a national test that replaces the “Terra Nova” test we have taken in the past. This test gives us national percentile rankings that we use as part of our state reporting. It also gives us important data regarding grade level performance and individual skills for each student. The best part about this test is because we give the test 3 times a year (fall, winter, spring) we can measure growth for each individual as the year progresses. Winter tests have just been completed, and the spring test is scheduled for late April and early May.
State Writing (Feb. 1st – 19th) This test measures students writing ability using a number of different writing styles. Students are given two days to complete the test. Day 1 is spent organizing thoughts ideas, while day 2 is for the final draft. This is a one time test for each student, so it is important they concentrate and do their best over the course of those two days. Students in grades 4, 8, & 11 have their scores reported to the state. Students in grades 1- 11 take the test and it are scored locally as well.
NeSA reading (March 29th – April 30th) This is a new test. It is a state test that will measure students reading ability. The test is computerized and is a one time test. Students in grades 4, 8, & 11 have their scores reported to the state. Students in grades 1- 11 take the test and it is scored locally as well.
NeSA math (March 29th – April 30th) This test is a practice test for the following year when students will take their math assessment test just like they are taking the reading test this year.
As you and your student discuss these tests, I encourage you to point out how important these tests are to your student and the district. The results of these tests will be used to make educational decisions that will affect your student’s education here at MPS. We expect all students to give their best effort on each test. Once we get the results, we will form a plan to meet the needs of every student at MPS.
As we near the testing dates here are a few helpful hints to ensure our students get the optimal results:
1. Get plenty of sleep. Being drowsy can cause headaches and affect performance. Try to encourage your student to get 8-9 hours of sleep each night.
2. Read each question of the test and all the possible answers carefully. Take your time! All of the tests are untimed, so rushing through the test is a huge disadvantage.
3. Answer the easiest question first, mark the questions that are skipped and come back to them later.
Good luck to all of us!!!
