Benchmark Testing

Aug 19-20, 2019

The first benchmark testing for the 2019-2020 ALVA school year is just around the corner. Regardless of how we feel about the pros and cons of testing and exams, this is a great opportunity for us to gain insight into our children’s current level of mastery in the subjects of Math and Language Arts. Our children are understandably nervous; frankly we may be anxious as well. In this post, I have gathered important information regarding the new MAP Growth testing ALVA has adopted. I do hope you find it useful.

What is MAP Growth?

MAP Growth® is an assessment tool developed by the non-profit organization NWEA(Northwest Evaluation Association). It is an adaptive computer-based testing system designed to track students’ growth throughout the year.

How is the test administered?

Students will be taking their MAP Growth assessment in their reading and math classes and will be virtually monitored by teachers and staff. Students are required to use webcams and have their microphones turned on so that staff can effectively monitor the testing environment.

What is the test like?

MAP Growth is a computer-adaptive test. If your student answers a question correctly, the next question is more challenging. If they answer incorrectly, the next one is easier. So if your child is getting frustrated because he or she does not know the answer, don’t panic! The assessment won’t stop until it has correctly gauged your children’s level of understanding in the subject. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 90 minutes for each test.

What are the dates of MAP Growth?

• Beginning of Year (BOY) Assessment – August 19 & 20
• Interim I – September 30 & October 1
• Middle of Year (MOY) Assessment – January 6 & 7
• Interim II – March 2 & 3
• End of Year (EOY) Assessment – May 11 & 12

Can I get more information?

MAP Growth parent information sessions will be held on August 14. You can find the links for the information sessions by going to “My Schedule” on the Learning Coach home page. Sessions will appear on the schedule for August 14, 2019.

• K-2 – 9:00 am and 5:00 pm
• 3-5 – 10:00 am and 6:00 pm
• 6-12 – 11:00 am and 7:00 pm

Resource links

Use these links to access informational videos about MAP growth as well as to take practice tests.

K-2 – https://studentresources.nwea.org/app/k_two/k_to_two.html

3-12 – https://studentresources.nwea.org/app/gradetwoplus/gradeTwoPlus.html

MAP Growth Accessibility Features

Here is a video explaining how to use the accessibility features.