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Table of Contents: April 2001


Link to: April 2001 Issue pdf. file format (best for printing)

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Arizona Arizona’s Instrument to Measure Standards (AIMS) is given to students in grades 3, 5, and 8. The state’s standards and tests were revised in 1996. Beginning last year, 10th grade students were required to take reading and writing tests. By 2004, students will be required to pass a reading, writing and math test to graduate. California In grades 2-11, students take the norm-based Stanford 9 and a state standards-based test as part of the Standardized Testing and Reporting (STAR) program. The California High School Exit Exam in language arts and math is being phased in and will be required for graduation in 2004. Colorado While the state has tested in some grades in the past, this year Colorado began annual standards- based testing of student in grades 3-10. There are no high school exit exams. Massachusetts Statewide standards-based testing began here in 1998 in grades 4, 8 and 10. This spring, the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System will be administered in grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8. By 2003, students will be required to pass the 10th grade state test to receive a high school diploma. However, several proposals are before the legisla- ture to postpone, revise or cancel the high-stakes high school requirement. New York In the past two years, standards-based testing has been administered to students in 4th and 8th grades, in addition to those in the 5th grade. New testing requirements are being phased in at the high school level. In 2000, students were required to pass the Regents English Exam to receive a Regents diploma. This year, they must also meet the minimum requirements of Regents Math Exam. By 2005, student must master five exams to graduate. Pennsylvania In 1999, new education standards were adopted and standards–based testing aligned with the curriculum. Tests are given in the 5th, 8th and 11th grades. By 2003, graduating students will receive proficiency seals in reading, writing and math. Virginia Standards of Learning Tests have been given in the 3rd, 5th and 8th grades since 1998.  Schools can lose their accredita- tion by 2007 if minimum student performance is not met. By 2004, high school students will be required to pass the SOL test or equivalent to receive a diploma. States leading the charge on testing