CAASPP Practice Tests & Sample Items
Practice tests simulate what it’s like to take assessments in the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) systems, giving educators, students, and parents an early look at assessment questions that are aligned to current standards in English language arts, mathematics, science, and English language development.
The California Department of Education has provided a matrix of Smarter Balanced Question Types. The matrix offers examples of question types that students may encounter on the English language arts and mathematics tests.
Simulated Exam Environments
Sample Items Website
This resource allows users to explore and interact with sample questions just as students encounter them on the Smarter Balanced Summative Assessments. Users can filter their search by grade, subject, claim, or item type to quickly find a needed resource.
Student Training & Practice Tests
This link provides access to the CAASPP Practice and Training Test Portal offering access to two different options that simulate the SBAC assessment. The first option is a “Training Test.” It was developed so students could become familiar with the testing software and interface. The Training Tests are in grade bands and do not include performance tasks. Universal tools, designated supports, and accommodations are included.
The second option is a “Practice Test.” This set of examples offers grade-specific testing experiences similar to CAASPP assessments. English language arts and mathematics assessments include one performance task per grade level. Some, but not all, supports and accommodations are included.
Using Practice Tests
SCOE encourages individuals and groups to examine the CAASPP simulated exam environments. Districts should look for opportunities to share with trustees, leadership teams, faculty groups, parents, school site councils, and community stakeholder groups. Students should also be given opportunities to explore assessment tasks.
Suggestions for using the practice tests:
- View test items for ideas on how to create similar items for use with students so they are comfortable working online.
- Take a practice test to experience the features of online testing and gain insight into how Smarter Balanced will assess students’ mastery of the Common Core.
- Using an LCD projector, do short overviews of questions. Demonstrate operations and universal access features. Discuss response options and model metacognitive processes.
- Look at assessment items to help inform common formative assessments in a district/school.
Resources
Innovative Item Types
This website provides a taxonomy of innovative item types that might be found in computer-delivered assessments.
