Every year, California students take several statewide tests. When combined with other measures such as grades, class work, and teacher observations, these tests give families and teachers a more complete picture of children’s learning. 

 

Tests administered annually include:

CAASPP: Smarter Balanced Assessments for English Language Arts/Literacy (ELA) and Math

Who takes these tests? Students in grades 3–8 and grade 11.

What is the test format? The Smarter Balanced assessments are computer-based.

When will students be tested? April - May

Which standards are tested? The California Common Core State Standards.

 

CAASPP: California Science Test (CAST)

Who takes the test? Students take the CAST in grades 5 and 8 and once in high school, either in grade 10, 11, or 12.

What is the test format? The CAST is computer-based.

When will students be tested? April - May

Which standards are tested? The California Next Generation Science Standards (CA NGSS).

ELPAC

Who takes the test? Students who have a home language survey that lists a language other than English will take the Initial test, which identifies students as an English learner student or as initially fluent in English. Students who are classified as English learner students will take the Summative ELPAC every year until they are reclassified as proficient in English.

What is the test format? Both the Initial and Summative ELPAC are computer-based.

When will students be tested? March - May

Which standards are tested? The 2012 California English Language Development Standards.

 

Physical Fitness Test 

Who takes the test? Students in grades 5, 7, and 9 will take the FITNESSGRAM®, which is the test used in California.

What is the test format? The test consists of five performance components: aerobic capacity, abdominal strength, trunk strength, upper body strength, and flexibility.

When will students be tested? March - May

Which standards are tested? The Healthy Fitness Zones, which are established through the FITNESSGRAM®.