LET’S TALK MAPMEASURES OF ACADEMIC SUCCESS

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September, 2015

What are standardized tests?

What are standardized tests used for at ISB?

How do teachers use test results to improve learning?

How do parents interpret scores? How can students learn from their scores?

TODAY’S AGENDA10:00-11:00

›What are standardized tests and common assessments?

›What is MAP? How do I read my child’s progress report/scores?

›An overview of MAP testing- MAP measures growth over time.

›“Everyone gets what they need”

Standardized Testing

›A test administered and scored in a consistent manner (MAP,SAT, GRE, IBDP, IOWA Tests, ACER, MAT 8, GMAT, PSAT, PRAXIS)

›One way to measure how your child is doing in school

›A way to objectively compare a child to other children at the same grade level, in the same district, or with a group of similar students

›A way to determine what a child has mastered and what they still need to learn

What is the MAP test?

›Developed by the Northwest Evaluation Association (Located in Oregon, USA)

›Accurately measures student academic performance (Reading, Language Use, Science, and Math) – ISB tests only Reading, Math, and Language Use.

›Computerized adaptive test (no students take the same test!)

›Data gathered gives you growth and achievement information over time

MAP at ISB

›Tests administered two times a year (if needed in January)

›Tests administered to students in grades 2-10 (grade two students, reading and math only as base-line data)

›Tests take roughly sixty minutes to complete

›Students tested in Language Use, Reading, and Mathematics (3-10)

›LS students take the tests in the Library

›US students take the tests in subject specific classes

Benefits of MAP testing

›Limits the numbers of questions to those that efficiently measure a student’s achievement level (Math, and Language Usage 52, Reading 42)

›Triangulation of data, one form of assessment for evaluation (formative, summative, and external testing data)

›Tests adapt to the test taker’s proficiency level

›Lessens frustrations - gives students confidence

›Tests are not timed, but most students finish tests in about an hour

›Normative testing refers to the process of comparing one test-taker to another, not whether the test taker knows more or less material than the others

MAP test V. Traditional

standardized tests

Things to keep in mind as parents

›Standardized testing is only one way to measure student academic achievement

›Assessment is a collection of evidence of student achievement, MAP test scores are a piece of this evidence we use to improve instruction and student learning

›Tests are only a single snap shot in time, it is part of overall assessment (gathering of evidence) MAP tests are not used for evaluative purposes

›How the student is feeling (rushed, tired, hungry, sick) and their attitude toward the test can change or alter their results

›Comfort level with computerized tests can also impact results (first time/grade two/ESOL/new students)

SAMPLE TEST SCORES

What do teachers do with all this data?

›Meet in teams to look for emerging patterns or trends

›Use testing software to identify what we need to improve upon

›Modify or adjust teaching strategies to improve student learning

›Differentiate future lessons (remember the cartoon!) “You get what you need”

Ways to help your child

›Make sure your child is well-rested on the day of the test -One hour per day; three days during the testing window

›See that your child eats a well-rounded and healthful diet. Consider including some protein in your child’s breakfast on the day of the test and packing fresh fruits for breaks!

›Some students will test in the afternoon. Send a healthy lunch and a healthful extra snack

›As a parent, you play a critical role in promoting your child’s academic growth and overall wellbeing

›Parents and teachers can work together to improve student learning

Questions?

Mr. Lettinga, Ms. Elena (LS), Ms. Betsy (MS), Ms. Stafford(HS), Mr. Jose Acevedo(LS), Mr. Coskinas (US), and all teachers are available to help interpret scores – Just ask!