Interim
Content: Math and Writing
Dates: October, December, May
Format: Written assessment, Multiple Choice and Constructed Response
Purpose: The Interim assessments measure students’ achievement of key Essential Learning Goals and Common Core State Standards. It is designed to inform teachers’ instruction by assessing important learning goals throughout a grade level and measuring content in alignment with the district Scope and Sequence time frames. It also provides summative information at the end of the year.
The Colorado legislature passed the Colorado Reading to Ensure Academic Development Act (READ Act) in 2012 and it went into effect on July 1, 2013. This law focuses on K-3 literacy development and includes requirements for assessment, individualized READ plans for students who have been identified as having a significant reading deficiency, and specifics around parent communication and involvement. The READ Act requires all K-3 students to be tested using a CDE approved assessment three times a year. DPS policy is to assess all students in grades K-5 three times a year, regardless of READ Act status.
DPS currently supports DIBELS 8 and mCLASS Lectura as its READ Act assessment in grades K-5.
CMAS
Content: Reading, Writing, Math for (3rd-5th), Social Studies (4th), Science (5th)
Dates: April 2-25
Format: Written assessment, Multiple Choice and Constructed Response (R, W, M)
Computer assessment (SS, S)
Purpose: The CMAS is designed to determine the level at which students meet the Colorado Model Content Standards, which describe what students should know and be able to do at specific grade levels. This assessment gives a snapshot of where your child stands in relation to these educational standards. It also measures the progress of Colorado students over time.