Smarter Balanced Assessments

  • Introduction

    The Smarter Balanced Assessment System utilizes computer-adaptive tests and performance tasks that allow students to show what they know and are able to do. This system is based on the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English language arts/literacy (ELA) and mathematics.

    The Smarter Balanced Assessment System has three components designed to support teaching and learning throughout the year: the Summative Assessments, the Interim Assessments, and the Digital Library. The Smarter Balanced Assessment System Graphic (PDF) and video display the relationship between these components, the CCSS, and college and career readiness.

    CAASPP Starting Smarter for Families
    (Starting Smarter Be a Partner - SBAC (CA Dept of Education) - PDF)
    (Starting Smarter Parent Informational Flyer, Spanish version(PDF))

    The California Department of Education (CDE), in collaboration with the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium and Educational Testing Service, launched a website to help empower parents/guardians and families to become partners in their children’s academic success:
     
    The family-focused website provides resources to facilitate parents’/guardians’ understanding of the scores presented on their child’s Student Score Reports. Using these websites, families can become involved in their child’s educational progress and:

    ·         Learn more about the performance areas in each subject and grade.

    ·         See sample test questions.

    ·         Prepare for parent-teacher conferences with a useful downloadable guide.

    ·         Access high-quality resources to support learning at home.

    A Parent Guide to Understanding: The Smarter Balanced Summative Assessments

    The Smarter Balanced Summative Assessments are part of the state testing system called the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress or CAASPP. The CAASPP System is designed to give information to teachers, students, and their families about what students know and are able to do and whether they are on track to be ready for success in college or career when they graduate from high school.
     
    A PARENT GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING The Smarter Balanced Summative Assessments
     
    Smarter Balanced Assessments Information
    This video provides information to students about the Smarter Balanced Summative Assessments.  The video introduces students to the summative assessments and explains the purpose of these assessments.
     
    (Click here to access the video in Spanish.)
     
    Smarter Balanced Parents Factsheet
    This document describes how new tests based on the Common Core State Standards can help prepare students to graduate high school ready for college and the workplace.

  • Smarter Balanced Assessment Sample Items
    CLICK HERE to access sample SBAC test questions.