Facts & Figures
Improvement Plan
Other Links
Frequently Asked Questions about Testing
Why is there so much testing?
The answer can be found in several laws that have been passed at the state
and national level. In Ohio the law requires a combination of diagnostic
assessment and achievement testing in all grades up to 8th grade. At the
fedral level, the Leave No Child Behind law requires annual achievement
testing in reading and math from grades 3 through 8.
How will these tests be used?
The diagnostic assessments are intended to help identify students needing
extra help in reading, math, social studies, science and writing. The
achievement tests are supposed to determine whether students have met
pre-established standards in each subject area. Statewide standards,
indicators and benchmarks are being developed to guide the school
curriculum and the content of the tests.
School Accountability
Ohio's report cards include the results of student performance on the
achievement tests. Federal law requires that schools test all children and
that the results be reported not only for the school as a whole, but also
by gender and race/ethnicity and also for children who are economically
disadvantaged and who need special education.
What Can Parents Do?
1) Learn about the test
*go to Ohio Department of Education's (ODE) website to access practice tests
2) Encourage good test-taking skills
*understanding & following directions
* budgeting time
* read the whole question and answer choices
* check work
* reduce stress
3) Show your confidence in your child
* reassure your child
* strategies that work during the test
breathe deeply & slowly. Tighten up your whole body &
then let go.
* Think and tell yourself "I Can Do This!"
4) Activities to support tests
Reading:
reading fiction and non fiction
Writing:
write and talk
Math:
Use everyday activities as opportunities to do math
Science:
Collect data, organize it & think about what it means
Social Studies:
Read the news
Use maps
Be ready on test day:
get plenty of rest
have a healthy breakfast
dress for comfort