Smarter Balanced Assessments for ELA and Mathematics

Smarter Balanced summative assessments for English language arts/literacy (ELA) and mathematics are part of CAASPP. Find more detailed information about test administration in the CAASPP Online Test Administration Manual.

How the Smarter Balanced Assessments Work

Who takes these tests?

Students in grades three through eight and grade eleven take the Smarter Balanced Summative Assessments.

What is the test format?

The assessments in ELA and mathematics are computer adaptive with a performance task.

When is the testing window?

For information on the testing window and assessment timeline, refer to the Assessment System Chart and the California Assessment Timeline.

Which standards are tested?

Smarter Balanced Summative Assessments test the California Common Core State Standards.

What is the estimated testing time?

The content-area assessments are estimated to take approximately five to six hours; however, each is untimed.