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

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. Georgia Milestones Video

7. 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 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 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

8. 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.

9. 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

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

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

12. Georgia Milestones: General Test Parameters

13. 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

14. 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

15. 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.

16. 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

17. 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

18. 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

19. 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
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).

20. 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.

21. 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.

22. 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.

23. 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.

24. 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.

25. 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

26. 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

27. 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.

28. 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

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

30. Topics
Test Anxiety
Study Strategies
Test Taking Strategies
Self-Care

32. Reducing Test Anxiety Mental Preparation Physical Preparation
Relaxation Techniques

33. 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

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

35. Relaxation Techniques
Music
Breathing
Moment of Silence

36. Tips for Terrific Test Taking

37. 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.

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

39. 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”.

40. 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.

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

42. 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.

43. 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.

44. 1. ORGANIZE YOURSELF – Have a Plan

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

46. 3. Use Online Resources

47. 4. Complete Study Guides and Do Practice Exams

48. Assessment Results

49. 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.

50. 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

51. 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!

52. 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!

53. 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.

54. Helpful Resources
Assessment/Assessment/Pages/Georgia-Milestones- Assessment-System.aspx

55. T. W. Josey
TEST PRACTICE

56. Sample Online Assessment
Use the following link to access the site:  
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.

57. **Make sure to use Google Chrome ONLY!

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