English Language Arts/Literacy

Grades 3-8, and 11

Includes two components per content area: CAT* and PT** (see below)

Mathematics

Grades 3-8, and 11

Includes two components per content area: CAT* and PT** (see below)

SCIENCE (CAST: California Science Test)

Grades 5,8, and 11 (or 12th if student has not yet taken CAST)

This test is not computer adaptive, is untimed, and takes from one to two hours to complete

*CAT: The computer adaptive portion (CAT) of the online test includes a wide variety of item types. It adjusts the difficulty of questions on the basis of the answers students give. As students answer correctly, they receive more challenging questions. Incorrect answers trigger easier questions. This approach helps keep students engaged, shortens testing time for many students, and provides more accurate results, especially for low- or high achieving students.

**PT: The performance task portion (PT) is designed to provide students with an opportunity to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge and high-order thinking skills to explore and analyze a complex, real world scenario.