Statewide Assessments
In 2014, the California Department of Education introduced CAASPP, which stands for California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress. CAASPP is California's statewide student assessment system. The purpose of CAASPP is to assist teachers, administrators, students, and parents by promoting high-quality teaching and learning through the use of a variety of assessment approaches and item types. High school students take assessments in 11th grade, and results provide students, parents, and schools valuable information about student performance related to the California Standards.
The ELPAC, which stands for English Language Proficiency Assessment for California, is an annual assessment for students classified as multilingual learners.
Assessment Types
The English Language Arts assessment is part of the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) tests, and includes two district parts: the computer adaptive test and the performance task. The computer adaptive test is a combination of multiple choice and short answer questions. The performance task contains questions which require a thorough and detailed response. Each part of the ELA SBAC is expected to take around two hours to complete. This assessment measures knowledge and skills through 11th grade English.
The mathematics assessment is part of the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) tests, and includes two district parts: the computer adaptive test and the performance task. The computer adaptive test is a combination of multiple choice and short answer questions. The performance task contains questions which require a thorough and detailed response. Each part of the Mathematics SBAC is expected to take around two hours to complete. This assessment measures knowledge and skills through Integrated Math III.
The science assessment is titled the California Science Test, or CAST. The CAST is a single assessment that measures knowledge and skills in the areas of physics, biology, and chemistry. The CAST is expected to take around two hours to complete.
The California Alternate Assessments, or CAA, are designed for students with significant cognitive disabilities. The CAA includes assessments in ELA, mathematics, and science, and is typically delivered in a one to one setting. Student eligibility for the CAA is determined by the students IEP team.
The English Language Proficiency Assessment for California, or ELPAC, is an annual assessment for students classified as multilingual learners. The ELPAC contains four domains: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.