Dear Parents and Guardians
I am pleased to announce the availability of the Smarter Balanced Practice Tests. Smarter Balanced is the system of academic tests that will replace the Standardized Testing and Reporting (STAR) Program tests in English-language arts and math beginning in the 2014-15 school year. The Smarter Balanced tests are based on the Common Core State Standards adopted by California in August 2010.
The Smarter Balanced tests will generally be taken on computers, and the Practice Tests provide a good idea of what the new tests will look like. The Practice Tests are available for everyone to use at http://www.sde.ca.gov/ta/tg/sa/practicetest.asp. There is a Practice Test for each of grades 3 through 8 and grade 11 in both English-language arts and math. Each Practice Test has about 30 questions, as well as an answer key.
I encourage you to explore the Practice Tests with your child and discuss them with each other. Your child will also be able to use the Practice Tests on our school computers. The Smarter Balanced Practice Tests will be available through the 2013-14 school year.
Sincerely,
David Crum
Principal
Washington STEAM Manget