A Quick Key to Testing for Grades 9-12

Measures of Academic Progress (MAP)
MAP is given in grades 2 - 10 for reading, language, and math.  Students take the test on a computer. The test adjusts to the student, based on how well the student performs. If the student is having difficulty, the test will become easier. If the student is answering all the questions correctly, the test will become more difficult. The tests are electronically scored and measure performance on an individual, classroom, school, and district level.  The tests provide accurate and immediate scores to help teachers plan instructional programs, place students in appropriate classes, and screen students for special programs.  

High School Assessment Program (HSAP)
Given near the end of the second year of high school, HSAP is most often referred to as the exit exam and is required for graduation. The HSAP is based on state curriculum standards for English language arts and math. Students must pass all parts to receive a state high school diploma. Students who do not pass HSAP on their first attempt will have multiple opportunities to retake test(s) prior to the end of the senior year.  The ELA test has multiple-choice questions, constructed-response items, and an extended-writing exercise.  Students may use dictionaries during the extended-response writing portion of the test. The math test has multiple-choice questions and three integrated-response items where students must show their work to support how they got their answer. Students may use calculators while taking
any part of the math test. 

End-Of-Course (EOC) Tests
Students in grades 9-12 take state End-Of-Course tests in these courses: Algebra 1/Math for the Technologies 2; English I; Physical Science; and United States History and Constitution. These tests are given at the end of a semester or course and the results count 20 percent of a student's final grade.

Preliminary SAT (PSAT)
The preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Test helps to predict how a student may perform on the SAT. Scores also may be used to enter the National Merit Scholarship Program. Students take the PSAT in grade 10. The PSAT is not a college entrance exam.

Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)
The SAT measures math reasoning, critical reading, and writing skills. SAT scores are determining factors for college admission and scholarship eligibility.

Preliminary American College Test (PLAN)
This test, the preliminary ACT, provides students with the information needed to prepare for future academic and career success, as well as providing an estimated range of their ACT composite scores. The PLAN is not a college entrance exam.

American College Test (ACT)
Another indicator for admission to college and for eligibility for certain scholarships, this assessment consists of tests in English, math, reading, and science reasoning.

English Language Development Assessment (ELDA)
ELDA is used to determine how well students, who are identified as Limited English Proficient (LEP), can read, write, comprehend, and communicate in their first year in a United States school.

National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP)
NAEP is a test given randomly to students in grades 4, 8, and 12.  Scores are not provided for individual students or schools. Information from the test is used at the national and state level to determine student achievement in various subject areas.

Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT)
CogAT measures students’ general abstract reasoning abilities and capacity to apply these abilities to cognitive tasks in three batteries--verbal, quantitative and nonverbal.

Final Examinations
Final examinations are given for all courses for which high school credit is received. Exemptions from final examinations are not permitted.