California Science Test Update

This Spring, all California 5^th, 8^th & selected high school students will take a pilot of the new NGSS-based test, called California Science Test (CAST).

This Spring, all California 5^th, 8^th and selected high school level students will be taking a pilot of the new Next Generation Science Standards-based test, called California Science Test (CAST). This replaces the old California science standards test, which will no longer be administered.

The one-hour, computer-based test this Spring is a pilot, so individual student test score results will not be provided. It is a chance for students, teachers, schools and the state to get familiar with the test, and the logistics involved in implementing a new, computer-based test in science. The CAST is scheduled to be fully operation in spring 2019.

You can find sample tests at www.caaspp.org/practice-and-training/index.html
Find more information about this test and general NGSS implementation resources at: www.classroomscience.org/new-ca-science-test-what-you-should-know
CRS NGSS web pages www.crscience.org/educators/standardssupport
This site has a communications toolkit resource with easy-to-use “talking points” for sharing information with teachers, parents, and the community about the important transitions taking place in science teaching. http://cdefoundation.org/steam/ca4ngss/
To help teachers and parents advocate for science funding at your school through state-provided “local control funds,” the Lawrence Hall of Science has assembled a very informative and helpful “LCAP toolkit”. www.lawrencehallofscience.org/programs_for_schools/lcap_toolkit

The mission of CRS is to empower teachers and STEM professionals serving schools in historically marginalized communities to activate TK-8 students’ curiosity about the world, foster critical thinking, and inspire children to imagine future career pathways. We envision a community of educators, scientists, families and partners working together to build school cultures that equip all children to explore the world around them and build the skills needed to become innovators, problem solvers, environmental stewards, life-long learners and leaders. CRS leads a dynamic network, fostering relationships and collaborations that leverage expertise and resources to transform science teaching and learning toward greater equity, opportunity, and success for all students.

Our goal is simple: help teachers give students more opportunities to “do science” – to ask questions, test ideas, get their hands on real science activities. We need to inspire the next generation of thinkers, makers, problem solvers, and leaders!

California Science Test Update

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