Preparing Your Student for the AIMS Test Debra L. Cunningham, Ph.D January 25, 2011

The AIMS Test: Why is it important? Graduation requirement Goes on transcript Ensures that students are receiving a quality education Makes students responsible for not just passing classes but really learning! Scholarships linked to those who exceed the standards

What is the AIMS Test Arizona’s Instrument to Measure Standards –Standards based assessment –Developed by Arizona teachers to fulfill a federal requirement –Owned by Arizona –Measures student proficiency of Arizona academic content standards in writing, reading, math, and science –Required by state and federal law

When and How Assessed Grades 3 – 8 and high school Some students may receive accommodations (SpEd, 504, & ELL) Some special education students may qualify for an alternate assessment

Accessing Information on the Internet Arizona Department of Education Tucson Unified School District Various websites specializing in test preparation

Arizona Department of Education AIMS Information Center Information for Parents & Students: –Testing Results for Entire Schools –Tutoring Information –Information on Ordering Study Guides –Sample Tests

Tucson Unified School District For Parents TUSD STATS/parent account: provides information on grades, attendance, and AIMS test scores for individual students Parent Tips Supporting Your Children During Test Week Parent Links

Preparing for Tests Ask your school for test- taking skill information Utilize online test prep Mark the dates on your calendar in advance Make sure students rest well the night before and eat a good breakfast If students are nervous, they can write out their fears in advance and “pack up their troubles”!

A well-rounded education... According to research, a well-rounded education is best preparation. Provide and insist on a quiet place for academic work/reading every evening. Communicate regularly with teachers and school. Be sure students attend regularly!

Think-Pair-Share Think of three reasons why the AIMS test is important. What are some resources available to parents, teachers, and students?

AIMS Scholarship, Current Requirements Requires an exceeds on all 3 HS AIMS tests (current 10 th -gr students, only one chance) or exceed on two and a score of 3 or better on an AP exam or a good score on IB test 3.5 GPA or better and/or in top 5% of class Nothing below a B in any of your 16 core courses in English, math, social studies, science, and modern languages May retake courses to improve your grade; may use a high AP or an IB score to replace a course grade

AIMS Test Dates: Varies by level Grades 3 – 8: month of April High school level: –Writing: March 1 st –Reading: March 2 nd –Math: April 5 th –Science: April 6 th

Questions?

Closure The AIMS test is a tough reality we all have to face and take on as a challenge. Multiple resources are available for students, parents, and teachers to assist in mastery of each test. Using test-taking strategies, preparing with practice tests, and getting a well-rounded education are some of the best ways to get ready.