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Criterion Referenced Competency Test. What is it? How can we support our children?. What is the purpose of the CRCT?. Measure how well students acquire the skills and knowledge described in the Georgia Performance Standards (GPS).
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Criterion Referenced Competency Test What is it? How can we support our children?
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.
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.
What content areas are tested? • Grades 1 – 8: Reading English/Language Arts Mathematics • Grades 3 – 8: Science Social Studies
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.
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
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.
How does the test differ in 3rd, 4th, and 5th 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.
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
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
Reading CRCT Scores • Score of 800 Meets Standard • Score Below 800 Does Not Meet Standard Level 1 • Score 800 – 849 Meets Standard Level 2 • Score 850 And Above Exceeds Standard Level 3
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?
Preparation for the Test at School • Incorporating timed activities and independent work habits--- 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.
Preparation for the Test at School • Discussion of “why” with answer choices— 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
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
How can I help my child? • Complete some practice items at www.georgiaoas.org • Additional information such as study guides are at www.gadoe.org the Georgia Department of Education website
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
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
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.