By Arlene Laurison

The California Science Test (CAST) is the state’s summative assessment for students in grades 3-12 and is administered multiple times throughout grade school. This fall, the CAST results will be a full state indicator on the California School Dashboard. As a meaningful indicator of student achievement, this assessment prioritizes science alongside other core academic subjects. The hope is that increased visibility of state performance in science will help secure adequate funding. Additional monies are needed to train teachers in NGSS inquiry-based instruction, provide lab materials that support this instruction, and augment K-6 science education with integrated math and English curriculum.

To deepen California science teachers' understanding of the CAST assessment, a free, three-part learning series called the CAST Academy will be held multiple times this school year. These workshops cover the CAST design, universal tools and supports, and guidance for preparing students for the test.  This collaborative effort is led by the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE), California State University, Northridge (CSUN), and the California Association of Science Educators (CASE). 

In part one, participants will explore the design of the CAST. Participants will take a deep dive into the organization of the six segments of the test that include both discrete (stand-alone) items and performance tasks (PTs). The session will emphasize how performance tasks are built around a common phenomenon or science concept and require students to apply knowledge and skills rather than solely relying on recall. Attendees will also learn how to access and read the California Educator Reporting System (CERS) reports and interpret dashboard data.

In part two, participants will learn about the different types of science tests available and the tools students may access while taking the test. The session will explain the Universal Tools available to all students, the Designated Supports available to students who need them based on their individual needs, and the Accommodations for students with documented eligibility. In addition, teachers will practice using associated rubrics to grade sample performance tasks during an interactive segment.

Wrapping up the series, part three will cover how teachers may prepare their students for the CAST. Educators will learn that teaching to the test for the CAST will not be effective and may instead set students up for failure by limiting deeper learning and understanding. Instead, they will be encouraged to develop meaningful learning experiences that emphasize practices based on the Science and Engineering Practices, including but not limited to data analysis and inquiry learning, coupled with Crosscutting Concepts. The session will explore performance tasks as formative assessments and other preparation methods.

Throughout the series, educators will be given resources to expand their knowledge and ability to prepare students for the CAST. It is beneficial to attend the sessions with your team and administrator. This will encourage productive conversation and enable your site to develop effective goals. We look forward to seeing you at this free and informative series.

When registering, participants will receive resources as well as recordings of each session. Unable to attend this time? Don’t worry! The CAST Academy will also be held this winter.

Click here to register.

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