Although test scores are only one measure of student achievement, they have become increasingly important in assessing student learning. The Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS), a state standards-based test, is used to track how well students are performing compared to state standards. Students are tested in reading in grades 3 through 9; in writing in grades 4 and 7; in English language arts in grades 10 and 11; in mathematics in grades 3 through 11; in science in grades 5, 10 and 11; and in social studies in grades 8, 10 and 11.
How are the tests scored?
TAKS results show the level of proficiency a student demonstrates in each of the subject areas tested. Students receive one of two ratings: met standard or commended performance. The goal is for all students to meet or exceed the state standard.
Which scores are included in GreatSchools profiles?
The scores for reading, math, writing, English language arts and science for the English version of the TAKS are included in GreatSchools profiles. Scores for the Spanish version of the TAKS are not included.
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 Texas Education Agency; if there are a small number of students in a particular group in a school, data is not reported for that group.
Why do the test scores matter?
TAKS test scores provide an indication of whether students are making progress toward mastery of state content standards. All students must pass the grade 3 TAKS in reading in order to be promoted to grade 4. Grade 5 students are required to pass both the reading and math TAKS tests in order to be promoted to grade 6. Students are given three chances to pass the tests and are given additional help if they do not pass. Starting in 2007-2008, students must also pass the grade 8 TAKS reading and math exams to be promoted to grade 9. Students must pass the grade 11 Exit Level TAKS in all four subjects tested - English language arts, math, science and social studies - in order to graduate from high school. Students who do not pass the test in grade 11 will have several opportunities to retake the test.
It is important to be aware of both your child's score on the assessments and the overall score for her school. If your child scores below the standards, contact the 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. If your child is in a failing school, ask what your options are for transferring and obtaining supplemental services.
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 school. Always look at more than one measure when judging school performance and visit in person before making any final determination.
Source: TX Education Agency, 2005-2006