SBA is the Smarter Balance Assessment. This is the new state testing program that begins this year—well, the field test is this year. All 3rd through 5th grade students will be testing but it’s a “test of the test.” The purpose of the SBA this year is to evaluate the testing software, ensure the quality of test questions, establish scoring and reporting levels, and familiarize participants with online testing and correlation to the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). This dress rehearsal also gives us an opportunity to figure out schedules, computer needs, and any other issues that may arise. We will not get the results of the tests. Oxford students will take the test on April 7, 8, 9, and 14, right after spring break. There are four 45-minute tests, and then one 30-minute performance task. There will be some video embedded in the test, so if your child would like to bring his/her own earphones or ear buds on the testing dates, s/he is welcome to do so. We will also provide earphones. Some computer tools that students will need to use on the computer are:
highlight text in passages and test questions
zoom in and out of test pages
mark specific items for review
strikethrough (cross out answer options)
use the calculator
use the [Expand] button to display a reading passage or a science simulation
If you would like to have your child do some practice tests, go to the SBA website. We are very fortunate to have Robin Harley, our computer teacher, here to help us with the process, as well as BUSD staff. We are confident that the testing will go well! There will be state testing for only 5th grade in science. I’m not sure of the dates yet but I believe it’s in late April. Dr. Tibbot will be reviewing science prep questions in class to help prepare the students for testing. If you are interested in seeing the science release questions, take a look at this California Department of Education handout, or just Google “Science Test Release Questions Grade 5” and you’ll get some information. This testing will be done the regular old-fashioned way, with paper and pencil. Thanks, Beth
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