1. Criterion Referenced Competency Test What is it? How can we support our children?

2. What is the purpose of the CRCT?  Measure how well students acquire the skills and knowledge described in the Georgia Performance Standards (GPS).  Schools, school systems, and the state use the results to gauge the quality of education in Georgia.

3. When was the CRCT implemented?  It was first implemented in 2000 when tests in reading, English/language arts, and math in grades 4, 6, and 8 were given.  In 2002, assessments were given in grades 1-8.

4. What content areas are tested?  Grades 1 – 8: Reading English/Language Arts Mathematics  Grades 3 – 8: Science Social Studies

5. How does the CRCT differ from the ITBS?  The ITBS measures the achievement level based on standards commonly taught throughout the country. Scores are normed on a sample of students throughout the country.  The CRCT is based on Georgia Performance Standards only. A level of proficiency is set to measure adequate learning of those state standards.

6. How are students tested?  Multiple-choice questions  One content area each day. All classes test the same content area.  Two 45-minute sections each day with a break between them

7. Is the test for younger students developmentally appropriate?  The test in first and second grades is paced by the teacher rather than timed. Students have a test booklet where answers are bubbled.  The teacher in first and second grades reads questions and answer choices to students. Students read reading passages independently.

8. How does the test differ in 3 rd, 4 th, and 5 th grades?  Students are given general directions. They then complete the test independently, reading and selecting the answer.  Students may underline important information in the test booklet. All answers to questions must be bubbled-in on a separate answer document.

9. Testing Schedule  Tuesday, April 21 Reading CRCT  Wednesday, April 22 English/LA  Thursday, April 23 Math CRCT  Friday, April 24 Science CRCT  Monday, April 27 Social Studies  April 28 – May 1 Make-Up Tests

10. Promotion, Placement, Retention Rule  Since 2003-2004, Third Grade students must meet proficiency in Reading for promotion to fourth grade.  Since 2004-2005, Fifth Grade students must meet proficiency in Reading AND Math for promotion to sixth grade.  Summer School in June and a Retest will be available to students who do not meet this criteria

11. Reading CRCT Scores  Score of 800 Meets Standard  Score Below 800 Does Not Meet Standard Level 1  Score 800 – 849 Meets Standard Level 2 Level 2  Score 850 And Above Exceeds Standard Level 3 Level 3

12. Preparation for the Test at School  Student instruction based on Georgia Performance Standards  Emphasis on Reading Comprehension  Emphasis on Math Facts  Practice following directions--- Are you answering the question that is asked? Are you answering the question that is asked?

13. Preparation for the Test at School  Incorporating timed activities and independent work habits--- Do your best and move on to the next item. Do your best and move on to the next item.  Some tests have multiple-choice format and/or answer document— First thoughts about the correct answer are usually accurate. First thoughts about the correct answer are usually accurate.

14. Preparation for the Test at School  Discussion of “why” with answer choices— Read all answer choices before selecting one. Read all answer choices before selecting one.  Ruling out obviously wrong answers in multiple-choice  Keep trying even when learning is difficult  Always stay positive and focused

15. How can I help my child at home?  Read, Read, Read and discuss your child’s reading  Keep practicing math facts  Give your child a place and time for completing homework, but allow him/her to complete the assignment

16. How can I help my child?  Complete some practice items at www.georgiaoas.org www.georgiaoas.org  Additional information such as study guides are at www.gadoe.org the Georgia Department of Education website www.gadoe.org

17. How can I help on the day of the test?  Plan for a smooth morning  Have a good night’s rest before testing  Eat a nutritious breakfast  Please get to school on time  Bring two Number Two pencils with erasers

18. How can I help on the day of the test?  Please allow your child to stay home if he/she is sick that morning---there will be make-up tests  Encourage, encourage, encourage

19. Things to Remember  This is not a time to “cram for the test.”  Your child has been learning throughout the school year. This test should reflect that learning.  This test measures minimal competency. Most instruction in school carries higher expectations than can easily be tested through a multiple-choice format.