CAASPP
California state testing program, the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress, or CAASPP. Students in grades 3-6 will take tests in English-Language Arts and Mathematics online, using a computer. These tests are also known as the Smarter Balanced Assessments. Students in grades 5 will also take the science test.
The CAASPP program is designed to give information to teachers, students, and families about their student’s knowledge and skills, in addition to whether they are on track for success, in college or career, when they graduate from high school. Test results will help identify and address gaps in knowledge or skills early on, so students can receive the support they need to be ready for success in higher grades.
Students in the Robla School District will take the CAASPP assessments beginning the last week of April running through the last week of May.
More About the Smarter Balanced Tests
The CAASPP Smarter Balanced Assessment is divided into multiple subject areas and tasks. These areas include:
- Computer-adaptive items
- English-Language Arts (40-45 items)
- Math (30-35 items)
- Performance Task
- Designed to show how students can integrate knowledge and skills across multiple areas
- English-Language Arts (3 questions)
- Math (6 questions)
Computer-Adaptive Items
The CAASPP testing system selects questions that are appropriately challenging for students based on student answers to previous questions. When a student gets an answer correct, the next question is more difficult. When a student get an answer wrong, the next question is slightly easier.
As a result:
- Tests are tailored or customized to the student’s ability level (computer-adaptive)
- No two students will receive the same test
- Tests help keep students more engaged
- There are often fewer questions, and less time needed to identify student skills
Performance Task
A Performance Task is an activity that requires students to use multiple pieces of information to respond to a series of questions on their own (i.e. not multiple choice where the student selects an answer from a set of choices)
The performance task is administered in three steps:
- Classroom activity delivered by the teacher
- Independent work
- Development of response
The performance tasks are given via the computer, but they are not computer-adaptive; all students in a given grade get the same performance task.
How can you help your child?
To prepare your child for the CAASPP, here are some helpful tips:
- Take a practice test
- Discuss the tests with your child and make sure they are not anxious about the tests
- Make sure your child gets a good night’s sleep and a nutritious breakfast before testing
- Remain positive
