Enrollment options

The Smarter Balanced Assessment was first piloted as a standardized state test in 2013 in the fifteen member states in the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC). Previous standardized tests were deemed to lack validity and reliability, especially for students not represented by traditional, mainstream cultural paradigms. The good news is that the Smarter Balanced Assessment is a far more authentic assessment of students’ math, literacy, and science knowledge and skills, and the preparation students need to be successful on the assessment is relevant to their academic, personal, and eventually professional lives. As opposed to previous standardized tests, the Smarter Balanced Assessment is designed for all students, including students with disabilities and English language learners. The challenge presented by the Smarter Balanced Assessment is that students must do things they were never expected to do on previous tests, or in their regular school day. They must explain their reasoning for the answers they give. Problem-solving and critical thinking skills are measured. They must cite sources for the ideas they express. Students must type, sometimes short answers, sometimes full paragraphs, including students in third grade when the Smarter Balanced Assessment is first administered. In order for students to be successful on the Smarter Balanced Assessment, teachers must be informed and armed with tools and strategies to prepare them to show their full potential. This course provides these critical tools and strategies, along with anecdotal information about previous Smarter Balanced Test administrations that point out possible pitfalls and handy tips. 

Guests can not access this course, please try to log in.