Idaho Standards Achievement Tests

• Cut scores for science in grades 5, 7, and 10 were set by Idaho teachers in May.

• Science tests will be scored for the first time this year.

• Scores will be reported June 20.

• NCLB requires that science be tested once in each grade span: elementary, middle, and high school. Idaho has chosen grades 5, 7, and 10.

• The expectation with this sample format is that the science content tested is cumulative.

• Reporting of science proficiency is not required by NCLB for AYP at this time.

• Science is an integral part of the ISAT test at all grades tested.

• At this time there is no plan to expand science testing to other grades. (Watch NCLB.)

• The Idaho Legislature has approved the State Board of Education’s enhanced the focus on science education with increased requirements in the high school redesign, requiring six credits of science credits in high school for students entering 9th grade in fall 2009 and thereafter.