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Annual state assessments will be underway in all Newberg schools this month. This year, students will apply and use what they have learned using the new Smarter Balanced assessments, which replace the OAKS assessments. The new test measures how well students have learned more rigorous state standards and how they are progressing toward college and career readiness.

Who is taking the test?
Students in grades 3-8 and grade 11 take annual state-mandated assessment tests.

What is tested?
English language arts (reading and writing) and mathematics.

What is the purpose of the test?
Test results provide an indication about student's progress toward college and career readiness relative to their current grade level. Test results, combined with district assessments, provide educators an indication of strengths and areas of need in instructional programs.

How does the new Smarter Balanced assessment compare to the OAKS tests?

• Content in both tests is based directly on the student’s grade-level standards.
• Both are computer-based tests that adapt to each student’s ability level by basing the difficulty of future questions on previous answers.
• Both tests provide all students, regardless of disability or language, supports they need to demonstrate what they know and can do.
• Questions on the Smarter Balanced test go beyond multiple choice. Students will need to demonstrate their ability to analyze and apply their knowledge in a given a reading passage or a mathematical task.

What is a performance task?
Performance tasks are a collection of questions and activities connected to a single theme or scenario. These tasks are used to measure depth of understanding, research skills and complex analysis that can’t be adequately assessed with traditional multiple choice questions.

How much time does the test take?
Test sessions are typically 30-60 minutes depending on the age and needs of the student. Students take the test at their own pace - there is no time limit. Schools schedule multiple sessions, usually during a two-week period, to complete the test items and performance tasks.

Most students spend less than five percent of the school year on district and state assessments.

How can I prepare my child to take the state assessment?