How are the tests scored?
NDSA results show the level of proficiency a student demonstrates in each of the subject areas tested. Students are rated at one of four performance levels: novice, partially proficient, proficient or advanced. The goal is for all students to score at or above the proficient level.
Which scores are included on GreatSchools profiles?
For each subject on the NDSA, the combined percentage of students scoring at or above the proficient level is displayed.
GreatSchools also displays subgroup results to show how different groups of students are scoring in comparison to the overall student population in a given grade and subject. These subgroups are identified by the North Dakota Department of Education; if there are fewer than 10 students in a particular group, the state doesn't report data for that group.
Why do the test matter?
North Dakota test scores provide an indication of whether students are making progress toward mastery of state content standards. Under the federal No Child Left Behind Act, schools with poor test scores are required to enact strategies to raise the achievement level of their students.
It is important to be aware of both your child's score on the assessments and the overall score for his school. If your child scores below the standards, contact his teacher to discuss getting additional assistance, and to find out how you can support your child's learning at home. If the school's overall scores are low, ask what steps the school is taking to raise achievement levels for all students, and what you can do to help.
What changes to the tests are planned for the future?
In 2006-2007 students in grades 4, 8 and 11 will be tested in science.
A few parting words
Although test scores can be an indicator of what's happening in the classroom, they don't tell you everything about the
quality of a particular school. Always look at more than one measure when judging school performance and visit in person
before making any final assessment.
Source: ND Dept. of Education, 2005-2006