Smarter Balanced Assessment System – Testing (CA Dept of Education)

Program Overview

The Smarter Balanced Assessment System utilizes computer-based tests and performance tasks that allow students to show what they know and are able to do. It is based on the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English language arts/literacy (ELA) and mathematics and has three components designed to support teaching and learning throughout the year: the summative assessments, the interim assessments, and the Tools for Teachers formative assessment resources.

The following links provide additional information about the program:

CAASPP – CalEdFacts web page provides a more detailed overview of the tests.

Assessment System Chart (PDF) lists the tests of the 2022–23 California assessment system by subject content, test name, test type, student participant groups, grade levels, and testing window timeframe.

California Assessment Timeline (PDF) presents the assessment administration timeline.

Assessment Spotlight web page contains archives of all previous Assessment Spotlight emails. Send a blank email to [email protected] to receive regular updates on the latest information about the statewide assessment system.

The Smarter Balanced Assessment System

Summative Assessments

Interim Assessments

Tools for Teachers

Resources and Communication Materials

Smarter Balanced Resources

Summative Assessments Educator Resource List (PDF)

Individualized Education Program (IEP) Resource List (PDF)

Resources for Communicating with Parents

Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium

The Smarter Content Explorer

Early Assessment Program

Test Administration

CAASPP Administration Website

CAASPP Coordinator Checklists

CAASPP and ELPAC Manuals Library

Practice and Training Tests

Student Accessibility Resources

Scores and Results Reporting

Electronic Student Score Reports Communications Toolkit

Test Results for California’s Assessments Website
– For directions on how to view results, go to Quick Reference Guides.

Smarter Balanced Scoring Specifications

Lexile® and Quantile® Measures

Laws, Regulations, and Requirements

California Education Code Section 60640

Federal Listening/Speaking Waiver (PDF)

CAASPP Regulations

Technical Documents

Common Core State Standards

Smarter Balanced Achievement Level Setting

CAASPP Technical Reports and Studies

Implementation of CAASPP

Questions: California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress Office | [email protected] | 916-445-8765

Last Reviewed: Friday, April 7, 2023