NWEA Testing
Students will take tests called Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) developed by the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA). We give students MAP tests to determine their instructional level, reading level, and to measure academic growth throughout the school year in the areas of Reading, Language, Math, and Science. All aspects of the Cathedral 360 personalized education experience are focused on knowing our students on a deeper level in order to precisely guide and mentor them. To accomplish this task in the academic arena requires knowing where students are currently and guiding and mentoring them to the next level.
What is the NWEA MAP test?
MAP tests are unique in that they are adaptive. When taking a MAP test, the difficulty of each question is based on how well a student answers all the previous questions. As the student answers correctly, questions become more difficult. If the student answers incorrectly, the questions become easier. The tests range from 39-52 questions and vary from person to person, depending upon the responses obtained.
As a result, each student has the same opportunity to succeed and maintain a positive attitude toward testing. These tests are used to determine where the student is right now, indicating their strengths and weaknesses, and allowing for goal setting.
All questions on the NWEA test are aligned to the 2014-2015 Indiana Academic Standards
Why are we doing this?
The purpose of the assessment is to determine what a student knows and his or her level of academic knowledge. Data is gathered and can be measured to determine growth. Teachers then can use this data to adapt instruction where needed. Counselors and teachers can use it to make recommendations for levels of classes.
Through Cathedral 360, we want to serve the students more effectively and efficiently. We believe NWEA MAP testing will provide this insight.
Who will take these tests?
Math and Science are subject specific while Reading and Language are grade specific:
- Math = Students in Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II
- Reading = All students grades 9-11
- Language = All students grades 9-11
All questions in each subject are independent to Cathedral’s curriculum map and are designed to determine a student’s learning level based on Indiana Academic Standards.