Testing

Each year students at grades 3-6 are asked to complete standardized tests to measure individual progress and to gain information about the effectiveness of our curriculum programs.  The Oregon Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (OAKS) will be utilized for multiple-choice tests in reading/literature, mathematics, and science.
 
Testing serves two purposes at Forest Hills.  Group results help us gage the overall effectiveness of our programs.  We can schedule content based on demonstrated strengths and areas of concern.  For example, if the group needs help in geometry, testing gives us guidance as to content to redress these concerns.
 
Testing helps teachers gage individual student achievement.  After the first round of testing in a particular curriculum area, students who have not exceeded grade level expectations will be given additional instruction targeted to areas of concern.  This might include additional instruction and practice, help from a subject matter specialist or help from our learning support center.  When the teacher believes the student has acquired additional knowledge, the student will be tested again.  After evaluating a student’s performance, students might now exceed expectation or the process might repeat itself. While the student is working to improve performance in a specific area they are also moving ahead with their group. 

Testing occurs periodically throughout the winter and spring as students strive to meet or exceed grade level expectations.  At the same time, teachers are gathering general information at informs their curriculum choices for their groups.
 
Following is a general calendar of testing designed to give you an idea of what is tested at each grade level and general times when testing occurs.  More specific information about testing schedules will come from your students reading and math teacher throughout the year.
 
Kindergarten, First and Second Grade – no standardized testing.

Third Grade – State Reading/Literature and Math knowledge and skills test (OAKS). October through May.

Fourth Grade – State Reading/Literature and Math knowledge and skill test (OAKS). October through May.  – State Writing Assessment. Mid January through the end of February.  InView Multiple Choice cognitive test. October and November.

Fifth Grade – State Reading/Literature, Math, and Science knowledge and skills test (OAKS).  October to May.

Sixth Grade – State Reading/Literature and Math knowledge and skills test (OAKS).  October to May.