MonticelloLive

Benchmark Examinations
&
Writing Prompt Field Test
April 2007

IMPORTANCE OF THE ARKANSAS COMPREHENSIVE TESTING, ASSESMENT, AND ACCOUNTABILITY PROGRAM (ACTAAP)

The Arkansas Comprehensive Testing, Assessment, and Accountability Program (ACTAAP) focuses on testing to measure application of basic skills and problem-solving skills that are essential to the success of students in school. The ACTAAP criterion-referenced tests have been developed to measure achievement of the Arkansas Curriculum Frameworks (the state-level expectations for instruction) and will identify those students who may be in need of additional instruction in language arts, mathematics, and science.

The administration of the Benchmark Examinations for grades 3-8 will be conducted April 17-19, 2007. Only students in grades 5 and 7 will participate in the Science portion of the Benchmark Examinations, which will be administered on April 20, 2007.

A field test (a tryout of new test questions) of writing prompts for grades 4 and 8 will be administered on April 20, 2007. While there will be no student results for this field test, students should be encouraged to do their best work.

It is important for parents to be aware of the purpose of the Benchmark Examinations and the Writing Prompt Field Test and the dates for testing. It is also essential that parents be involved in students’ ongoing preparation for testing, as well as preparation immediately preceding testing.

HOW PARENTS CAN HELP

When a test is to be given, you can help by making sure your student:
• Gets plenty of sleep the night before the test;
• Has breakfast on the morning of the test;
• Goes to school on the day of the test;
• Knows you think he/she will do well on the test; and
• Knows you understand that the test is important

To help your student learn at home:
• Encourage your student to read;
• Be interested in what y our student does in school (ask what happens each day);
• Ask to see your student’s school papers;
• Talk with and listen to your student (ask each other questions and share experiences);
• Visit stores, museums, festivals, etc., with your students and talk about them;
• Go to parent-teacher conferences;
• Let your student know that you think a good education is important;
• Get to know your student’s teacher;
• Tell your student that it is okay to ask the teacher questions;
• Check frequently to ensure that your student is completing all assigned work in a timely manner; and
• Urge your student to strive for excellence in all that he/she does.