FCAT Update

Dear Parents,

A letter was sent home last week about FCAT with useful websites and information. Here is a copy of what you need to know...

Third Grade FCAT TEST DATES:

• Monday, April 11th- Tuesday, April 12th: Reading


• Wednesday April 13th- Thursday, April 14th: Math

Beginning in the 2010-2011 school year, there will be several changes to the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT). This change occurred in response to what are called the “Next Generation Sunshine State Standards or NGSS that were adopted state-wide in 2007.

Online Resources:
o https://app1.fldoe.org/SuccessMeasures/Default.aspx
“The Success Measures application allows users to learn about the Florida standards, also referred to as the Next Generation Sunshine State Standards, and the specific assessments that will be testing that particular standard. Please choose the anticipated school year, along with the grade level and the courses you wish to research. The results will display when you select ‘Go.’”

o http://www.floridastandards.org/homepage/index.aspx
This webpage provides detailed information on each standard and benchmark tested in each subject and grade level. The “standards” tab will explain each standard and benchmark, while the “resource” tab give examples of lessons/activities for particular grade levels and subjects.

o http://fcat.fldoe.org/fcat2/
This webpage provides a general overview explaining reasons behind the changes for the 2010-2011 school year. A link titled “Test Item Specifications” gives detailed examples of what questions will look like. Another link, titled “Sample Questions and Answer Key Booklets” provides a sample FCAT for your student.

Before The Test:

1.Make sure your child attends school regularly. Remember that tests reflect the overall achievement of your child. The more often the child is in a learning situation, the more likely he/she will do well on tests.

2. Give your child encouragement. Praise him/her for the things done well throughout the year. A child who is afraid of failing is more likely to make a mistake.

3. See that your child has a well-rounded diet. A healthy body leads to a healthy, active mind.

4. See that your child completes homework assignments. Homework supports classroom instruction and can help your child increase his/her comprehension of the classroom work.

5. Meet with your child’s teacher(s) as often as possible to discuss your child’s progress. Parents and teachers should work together to benefit the child.

6. Ask the teacher(s) to suggest activities for you to do at home with your child. Such activities can help your child improve his/her understanding of school work.

7. Make sure your child is well rested on school days. Children who are tired are less likely to pay attention in class or to handle the demands of class work and tests.

8. Try not to be overly anxious about test scores. Too much emphasis on test scores can be upsetting to children.