The purpose of this memo is to clarify the policies around the MCAS high school Science and Technology/Engineering (STE) tests in February and June 2020.
A legacy, paper-based Biology test based on "overlapping" standards from both the 2006 and 2016 STE frameworks will be offered to eligible students. Individuals eligible to participate include:
Schools will administer next-generation, computer-based (CBT) MCAS high school tests in Biology and Introductory Physics for the first time in June 2020. Ninth graders in school year 2019-2020 (the class of 2023) will be the first class eligible to take these new tests. A paper version (PBT) will be available for students who require this accommodation. The Department will also offer legacy, paper-based tests in Biology, Introductory Physics, Chemistry, and Technology/Engineering. Testing information about the June 2020 STE tests is provided in the table below.
The next-generation MCAS Biology and Introductory Physics tests will have different achievement levels and scores than the legacy STE tests. However, for the classes of 2023 and 2024, students will need to reach the score corresponding to 220 on the legacy Biology and Introductory Physics tests to qualify for a high school diploma. In other words, the passing standard remains the same as previous years as the state introduces these new assessments. The Chemistry, Technology/ Engineering, and February 2020 Biology tests will continue to be reported on the legacy scale.
Additional information about the MCAS STE tests, including the next-generation Biology and Introductory Physics test designs, can be found here.
Thank you for your attention to this information. Please direct questions to the Office of Student Assessment Services or 781-338-3625.
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education 135 Santilli Highway, Everett, MA 02149
Voice: (781) 338-3000 TTY: (800) 439-2370
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