Standardized Assessments
Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) Testing
Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) is a computer-adaptive assessment used to measure student growth and achievement in key subject areas, including Reading, Mathematics, and Language Usage. Developed by NWEA (Northwest Evaluation Association), MAP tests are administered multiple times a year to provide real-time data that supports personalized instruction and tracks academic progress over time.
Unlike traditional standardized tests, MAP adjusts the difficulty of questions based on each student’s responses, offering a more accurate picture of individual skill levels. The results help educators tailor instruction to meet students’ unique needs, set academic goals, and monitor growth throughout the school year.
MAP testing is widely used in schools across the country to support data-driven decision-making and promote student success at every grade level.
Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS)
The Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) is a statewide standardized testing program designed to measure student achievement in relation to the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks. Administered annually in grades 3–8 and high school, MCAS assesses student proficiency in core subjects such as English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science and Technology/Engineering.
MCAS plays a critical role in evaluating both individual student progress and overall school performance. The results help educators identify strengths and areas for improvement, inform instruction, and ensure that all students are on track for college and career readiness. Participation in MCAS is required for all public school students in Massachusetts, and high school students must meet the MCAS graduation requirements to earn a diploma.
This is an online test administered in English and Math. Tests are aligned with the MA English Language Arts and Math Frameworks, which were both revised in 2017.
Here is a link for test preparation resources:
The Science MCAS will remain the legacy tests. These are a pencil and paper administration. The tests are aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards adopted by MA in 2016.
This is a link to the TestNAV8 Tutorial for students to provide practice with the live Computer Based Testing Platform: