Georgia Milestones Assessment System – End of Course Exam (EOC) 2017-18 Sadia Khan Assistant Principal - Assessment

At Discovery High School, we will…. ¨ Conduct workshops to teach parents strategies for writing constructed and extended responses, with emphasis on citing evidence in text, so that they are able to practice with students at home. ¨ Teach parents to locate practice exercises on eCLASS and other web- based academic resources, that can be used at home to improve students’ writing of constructed and extended responses, citing evidence in text.. Post educational links and resources on teachers’ web pages that parents can use to help students practice writing content specific constructed and extended responses at home.

As students of Discovery High School we will… ¨ Attend workshops with my parent or work with my parent at home to use writing strategies taught during parent workshops. ¨ Utilize eCLASS and other educational resources on a daily basis to practice citing text when writing constructed and extended responses, and discuss my responses with my parent. ¨ Visit teachers’ web pages to locate content specific exercises, to use as practice for writing constructed and extended responses, specifically linked to Social Studies and Science.

As parents of Discovery High School, we will…. ¨ Attend workshops to learn strategies for writing constructed and extended responses, with emphasis on citing evidence in text, to practice with my student at home. ¨ Work with my student to locate and use exercises from eCLASS and other educational resources each day, to practice writing responses supported by evidence in text. ¨ Visit teachers’ web pages to locate content specific exercises, to use with my student as practice for writing constructed and extended responses, specifically linked to Social Studies and Science.

Goals for this Session: By the end of this session, participants will be able to: Explain the composition and purpose of the Georgia Milestone Assessment System; Outline the specific types of items that students can expect on the exam; Identify ways to find resources to support and prepare students for the Georgia Milestone Assessment System; Give updates from the Georgia Department of Education regarding these assessments. The goals of this session are to ensure that participants can explain the new Georgia Milestone Assessment System, explain the types of questions that students will see on the new assessment, understand how the new assessment is different from CRCT and EOCT and identify ways to support students.

Georgia Milestones Video

What is the Georgia Milestones Assessment System? The Georgia Milestone Assessment System known as Georgia Milestones replaced the CRCT, EOCT and Writing Assessment, beginning in the 2014-15 school year. This test offers consistent expectations and rigor to position Georgia students to compete with peers nationally and internationally. The Georgia Milestones Assessment System will be a single comprehensive assessment system to replace the CRCT in Reading, ELA, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies, the grades 3,5 and 8 Writing Assessments, CRCT-M and the EOCT assessments in 2014-2015. GHSWT will remain as a separate administration in September 2014. Reading, Language Arts and Writing will be combined into a single measure as students will respond to passages in both multiple choice, constructed response and extended response test items. Georgia Milestones will offer increased rigor in all content areas including ELA, Mathematics, Science And Social Studies. The increased rigor will allow our assessments to match the rigor of national assessments such as NAEP, SAT, and ACT

Georgia Milestones Assessment System Increase expectations for student learning and achievement; Embed norm-referenced items to provide a national comparison; Align expectations with other external measures to send consistent signal of how Georgia students are doing compared to their peers; and Involve University System of Georgia (USG) and Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) in the development to ensure the assessments signal college and career readiness. These new assessments raise the level of expectations for students and for teachers. They will re-define teaching and learning. These new assessments will also give us the information that we need to compare GA students to students from around the country. In order to ensure that we are truly preparing our students for college and career readiness, we engaged with our post-secondary schools, as the assessments were being developed.

Students at the high school level will take an end-of-course assessment in the following ten courses: English Language Arts Ninth Grade Literature and Composition American Literature and Composition Mathematics Algebra I or Coordinate Algebra Geometry or Analytic Geometry Science Biology Physical Science​​ Social Studies United States History Economics/Business/Free Enterprise

How will the Georgia Milestones be Administered? The 2017-2018 Georgia Milestones End of Grade and End of Course assessments will be administered using online computer access at Gwinnett County Public Schools.

DHS EOC – When is the Test? State Schedule 4/25 – 5/11

Georgia Milestones: General Test Parameters

General Test Parameters Georgia Milestones General Test Parameters ELA will consists of 3 sections, 1 of which will focus mainly on writing Mathematics will consist of 2 sections Science will consist of 2 sections Social Studies will consist of 2 sections

General Test Parameters: ELA Georgia Milestones General Test Parameters: ELA Criterion-Referenced Total Number of Items: 44 / Total Number of Points: 55 Breakdown by Item Type: 40 Selected Response (worth 1 point each; 10 of which are aligned NRT) 2 Constructed Response (2 points each) 1 Constructed Response (worth 4 points) 1 Extended Response (worth 7 points) Norm-Referenced Total Number of Items: 20 (10 of which contribute to CR score) Embedded Field Test Total field test items: 6 Total number of items taken by each student: 60

Georgia Milestones Writing at Every Grade All students will encounter a constructed-response item allowing for narrative prose, in response to text, within first or second section of the test. Within the writing section of the test, students will read a pair of passages and complete a series of “warm-up” items: 3 selected-response items asking about the salient features of each passage and comparing/contrasting between the two passages 1 constructed-response item requiring linking the two passages 1 writing prompt in which students must cite evidence to support their conclusions, claims, etc. Genres Writing prompts will be informative/explanatory or opinion/argumentative depending on the grade level. Students could encounter either genre. Warning: Students who simply rewrite excerpts from the passage(s) to illustrate their point(s) will not receive favorable scores.

General Test Parameters: Mathematics Georgia Milestones General Test Parameters: Mathematics Criterion-Referenced Total Number of Items: 53 / Total Number of Points: 58 Breakdown by Item Type: 50 Selected Response (worth 1 point each; 10 of which are aligned NRT) 2 Constructed Response (worth 2 points each) 1 Constructed Response (worth 4 points) Norm-Referenced Total Number of Items: 20 (10 of which contribute to CR score) Embedded Field Test Total field test items: 10 Total number of items taken by each student: 73

General Test Parameters: Science Georgia Milestones General Test Parameters: Science Criterion-Referenced Total Number of Items: 55 / Total Number of Points: 55 Breakdown by Item Type: 55 Selected Response (worth 1 point each; approximately 10 of which are aligned NRT) Norm-Referenced Total Number of Items: 20 (approximately 10 of which contribute to CR score) Embedded Field Test Total field test items: 10 Total number of items taken by each student: 75

General Test Parameters: Social Studies Georgia Milestones General Test Parameters: Social Studies Criterion-Referenced Total Number of Items: 55 / Total Number of Points: 55 Breakdown by Item Type: 55 Selected Response (worth 1 point each; approximately 10 of which are aligned NRT) Norm-Referenced Total Number of Items: 20 (approximately 10 of which contribute to CR score) Embedded Field Test Total field test items: 10 Total number of items taken by each student: 75

What Types of Test Items Will be on the Georgia Milestones? Constructed-response in ELA and mathematics Selected response items in all content areas Evidence-based selected response in ELA Extended response in ELA and Mathematics A writing component (in response to text) at every grade level and course within the ELA assessments Norm-referenced items in every grade and content area to complement the criterion-referenced information and to provide a national comparison Technology-enhanced items, beginning 2016-17. English Language Arts [CC Georgia Performance Standards will require close analytic reading to construct meaning, make inferences, draw conclusions, compare and contrast ideas, themes, etc., as well as synthesize ideas and concepts across multiple texts –will require students to develop informative/explanatory responses or narratives, produce opinions/arguments – citing evidence from text(s) and using standard language conventions, etc. Mathematics [CC Georgia Performance Standards] will require demonstration of conceptual understanding of concepts, procedural skills and fluency, problem solving, modeling, and mathematical reasoning All content areas will utilize selected response items (multiple choice).

Reading/ELA – Assessment Item Multiple-Parts Text Dependent Questions Deeper Understanding This sample item shows that the next generation of test items will have multiple parts. Students are required to show deeper understanding and use details directly from the story to support their explanations.

Mathematics – Assessment Item Students explain their responses Scaffolded Constructed Response Students explain their responses Students show work Here is an example of a new item types. The items are scaffolded in that they have multiple parts with increased complexity. Students will need to both show and explain their work for Mathematics problems.

Multiple Choice Which fraction is largest? A B C D   A Click to answer the item. Click to transition to CR item. B C D The content and presentation of these items are for illustrative purposes only.

Constructed Response > George and Ana each had a 12-inch pizza. Both pizzas were split into 8 equal pieces. The shaded pieces are the portion of their pizzas that George and Ana ate. Express in fractions how much pizza George and Ana ate. Use the symbol <, =, or > to show who ate more pizza. George Ana Click to answer the item. Click to transition to CR item. George Ana     > The content and presentation of these items are for illustrative purposes only.

Constructed Response George Ana 12 inches 9 inches   George Ana 12 inches 9 inches   Click to answer the item. Click to transition to CR item. George Carlos 12 inches 12 inches The content and presentation of these items are for illustrative purposes only.  

Key Points to Consider Calculators will be allowed on certain assessments and at certain grade levels Key Points Impact of the review of content standards that the governor has requested is unknown would not introduce completely new content standards might be some shifts in grade levels assessment will reflect any changes Calculators will be allowed on certain assessments and at certain grade levels; policy will be shared once it has been finalized Scores will be delayed the first year Funds are being allocated to address the infrastructure from the state level; districts will be responsible for the devices for assessment purposes

Georgia Milestones Calculator Policy Content Area Grade Level/Course Type of Calculator Mathematics Grades 3 – 5 EOG Not Allowed Grade 6 EOG Basic1 Grades 7 – 8 EOG Scientific or Basic1 Coordinate Algebra EOC Graphing2 or Scientific Analytic Geometry EOC Science Physical Science EOC Social Studies Economics EOC 1Basic four-function calculator with square root and percentage functions. 2Graphing calculator with functionalities consistent with TI-84 or similar models. Note: Calculators are not permitted on certain designated sections of each mathematics test. Schools should review the state calculator policy to determine preparedness for testing. Students can bring handheld calculators into online testing in 2014-2015.

What can I do to help my child? Have him/her write, write, and write some more! Read, read, and read some more! Always ask “why” and expect complete sentence answers. Always prompt him/her to explain his/her thinking with pictures, words, and numbers. Keep in contact with your child’s teacher.

What is school system doing to prepare your child? Evidence-based writing focus (across content areas) Using curriculum and planning resources provided by the GA Department of Education Using sample items in instruction and on assessments Participating in Practice Assessments beginning next month modeled after the Georgia Milestones sample assessment items Practice EXTENDED Constructed Response prompts Practice using Online assessments to mirror GMAS

Test Preparation/Study & Test Taking Strategies Wilkinson Gardens Test Preparation/Study & Test Taking Strategies

Topics Test Anxiety Study Strategies Test Taking Strategies Self-Care

Reducing Test Anxiety Mental Preparation Physical Preparation Relaxation Techniques

Mental Preparation What to do before your exam: Be prepared Don’t Cram Arrive on time for school Eat BREAKFAST Get a good night’s sleep! What to do during your exam: Be test wise and have a plan

Physical Preparation What to do before your exam: Food – Eat Rest - Relax What to do during your exam: Be comfortable Be aware of environment

Relaxation Techniques Music Breathing Moment of Silence

Tips for Terrific Test Taking

Analyze how you did on a similar test in the past Review your previous tests, and sample tests. Each test prepares you for the next.

Be on Time! Before a test, list everything you need for it that is allowed Know the schools current policies and expectations.

Be comfortable but alert Choose a good spot in the room and make sure you have enough space to work. Maintain a comfortable posture in your seat and don’t “slouch”.

Stay relaxed and confident Keep a good attitude. Remind yourself that you are well prepared and are going to do well. If you find yourself anxious, take several slow, deep breaths to relax. Don’t talk about the test to other students just before entering the room; anxiety is contagious.

Read the directions carefully This may be obvious, but it will help you avoid careless errors. READ CAREFULLY

Answer questions in a strategic order: Answer easy questions first. Then answer difficult questions or those with the most point value. With multiple choice first eliminate those answers you know to be wrong, or are likely to be wrong, don’t seem to fit, or where two options are so similar as to be both incorrect. With essay/subjective questions, broadly outline your answer and sequence the order of your points.

Review Resist the urge to leave as soon as you have completed the test. Review and make sure that you: Have answered all the questions Did not mis-mark answers Did not make simple mistakes Proofread spelling, grammar, punctuation, decimal points, etc.

1. ORGANIZE YOURSELF – Have a Plan

2. Do Not Procrastinate to Study - Watching TV - Hanging Out - On the Phone - Social Media Time waits for NO ONE!

3. Use Online Resources

4. Complete Study Guides and Do Practice Exams

Assessment Results

Georgia Milestones and Lexiles GDOE issues Lexile measures Students receive a Lexile measure along with their regular scale score for a Georgia Milestones End-of-Grade (EOG) or End-of- Course (EOC) English Language Arts (ELA) assessment. A student’s Lexile measure is a score• for teachers to use in targeting reading material for students and for parents to use in selecting reading material for their children.

Lexile Scores Required Lexile Score on grade level proficiency: It is important that as a parent you know your child’s lexile level. These “stretch” Lexile bands are the basis for determining at what text complexity level students should be reading—and at which grades—to make sure they are ultimately prepared for the reading demands of college and career readiness

Individual Assessment Results – Beginning Learners – Developing Learners – Proficient Learners – Distinguished Learners Beginning Learners These students do not yet demonstrate proficiency (skills & abilities) in the knowledge and skills necessary as described in Georgia’s content standards (what students need to know & be able to do). Substantial academic support is needed for these students to be prepared for the next grade level. Developing Learners Students demonstrate partial proficiency in the knowledge and skills necessary. These students need additional academic support to ensure success in the next grade. Proficient Learners These students demonstrate proficiency (meet expectations) in knowledge and skills expected at their grade level. Distinguished Learners These students demonstrate advanced proficiency in the knowledge & skills expected at their grade level. They are well prepared for their next grade!

Individual Assessment Results - EOC – Beginning Learners (67% and Below) – Developing Learners (79% to 68%) – Proficient Learners (80% to 91%) – Distinguished Learners (92% to 100%) Beginning Learners These students do not yet demonstrate proficiency (skills & abilities) in the knowledge and skills necessary as described in Georgia’s content standards (what students need to know & be able to do). Substantial academic support is needed for these students to be prepared for the next grade level. Developing Learners Students demonstrate partial proficiency in the knowledge and skills necessary. These students need additional academic support to ensure success in the next grade. Proficient Learners These students demonstrate proficiency (meet expectations) in knowledge and skills expected at their grade level. Distinguished Learners These students demonstrate advanced proficiency in the knowledge & skills expected at their grade level. They are well prepared for their next grade!

What’s at stake this year?? The End of Course (EOC) measures serve as the final exam and comprise 20% of a student’s final course grade. Students can not receive a credit for a course without taking the EOC.

Helpful Resources http://www.gadoe.org/Curriculum-Instruction-and- Assessment/Assessment/Pages/Georgia-Milestones- Assessment-System.aspx

T. W. Josey TEST PRACTICE

Sample Online Assessment Use the following link to access the site:   https://wbte.drcedirect.com/GA/portals/ga Note that no login is required.  All you need to do to access a test is to click on the login button to begin your experience.

**Make sure to use Google Chrome ONLY! www.gaexperienceonline.com

Resources Georgia Department of Education: http://www.gadoe.org/Curriculum- Instruction-and- Assessment/Assessment/Pages/Georgi a-Milestones-Assessment-System.aspx Assessment Guides Test Blueprints Video and other informational documents