The ISAT Countdown Begins

From March 1-12th, Illinois children in grades 3-8 will be administered the Illinois Standards Achievement Test (ISAT). Academic areas assessed are reading, math, science (grades 4 and 7 only), and writing (grades 3, 5, 6, and 8 only). The purpose of the test is to measure student learning relative to Illinois academic goals, standards, and indicators.

From March 1-12th, Illinois children in grades 3-8 will be administered the Illinois Standards Achievement Test (ISAT). Academic areas assessed are reading, math, science (grades 4 and 7 only), and writing (grades 3, 5, 6, and 8 only). The purpose of the test is to measure student learning relative to Illinois academic goals, standards, and indicators.
The ISAT is a complex test requiring takers to utilize multiple strategies rooted in high-order thinking. The reading test is composed of comprehension, short answer, and extended response components. Students are expected to read lengthy passages (usually non-fiction), answer several multiple choice questions, and express their ideas/thoughts in words. The short answer and extended response components are assessed using a rubric.
In math, students are expected to solve multiple step word problems and complete extended response problems that require a strategy, solution, and explanation. Students in grade 3-8 are expected to use a ruler. In grades 4-8, calculators are to be used. Also, formula cards will be made available for children in grades 7 and 8.
Smyser teachers are working extremely hard addressing Illinois and CPS learning standards. Through daily instruction and Benchmark assessment data, we are constantly seeking ways to make sure 100% of our student meet/exceed state standards. Please support us by monitoring your child’s daily homework. Also, practice ISAT questions and booklets can be downloaded from the Illinois State Board of Education website at www.isbe.state.il.us.