January 18, 2012
Dear Parents of Students in Grades 2 through 8:
Within the next few weeks, our students will be piloting a new standardized testing system. This system will be implemented in all Archdiocesan schools during the 2012-2013 school year.
This testing system will replace the eight-day Terra Nova test, which was previously administered. The Performance program is very different from the Terra Nova test.
Students will take three versions of the Performance Series test. Performance Series is computer-based and adaptive. For example, if a child answers the first question correctly it moves him or her to a more difficult question. Conversely, if the child answers it incorrectly, it moves him or her to an easier question. This process is intended to provide each child with a focused assessment. Students will be assessed in Reading and Mathematics, and each test takes approximately one hour. Results will be immediately available to classroom teachers and administrators. Results will be used to provide targeted instruction for students who struggle in certain areas, and extension lessons for students who excel in particular areas.
Next year the benchmark Performance Series tests will be administered three times; at the end of the first, second and third quarters. Each test will be cumulative, covering the material from previous quarters. At the end of the year, the students will take the Achievement Series test, which is summative and covers teaching objectives for the entire year. Growth scores will indicate each student’s progress in Reading and Mathematics. Parents will receive reports for the benchmarks and the year-end test.
We are fortunate to pilot the test this year. Our students and teachers will have some exposure to this testing format before it is instituted throughout the Archdiocese. Our students will still take the Terra Nova test this year, however, it will be a shortened version.
After we have completed the Pilot, we will have much more information to share with you about this exciting new initiative in assessment.
Patricia McGann
Principal