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California Alternate Assessments for ELA and Math

California’s statewide alternate assessments for English language arts/literacy (ELA) and mathematics for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities.

Program Overview

The California Alternate Assessments (CAAs) for ELA and mathematics are part of the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) System. The purpose of the CAAs is to measure what students know and can do. These measures help identify and address gaps in knowledge or skills early so students can receive the support they need.

The CAAs are aligned with alternate achievement standards—called the Core Content Connectors—and linked to the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for ELA and mathematics.

The following links provide additional information about the program:

  • CAASPP – CalEdFacts web page provides a more detailed overview of the tests.
  • Assessment System Chart webpage lists the tests of the California Assessment System by subject, content, test name, test type, student participant groups, grade levels, and testing window timeframe.
  • California Assessment Timeline (PDF) California Assessment Timeline shows the test windows for each assessment throughout the year.

Resources and Communication Material

Talking to Parents About the CAA (PPTX; 15MB)

Resources for Communicating with Parents

CAA for ELA/Math Fact Sheet (PDF)

Guidance for individualized education program (IEP) teams

Alternate Assessment Decision Confirmation Worksheet (PDF)

Accessibility Resources External link opens in new window or tab.

Prioritized ELA Connectors and Essential Understandings: Reading (DOC)

Prioritized ELA Connectors and Essential Understandings: Writing (DOC)

Prioritized Mathematics Connectors and Essential Understandings (DOC)

Test Administration

Test Administration Coordination Site External link opens in new window or tab.

Student Accessibility Resources

Talking to Educators About the CAA (PPTX; 35MB)

Scores and Results Reporting

CAASPP Student Score Report Options External link opens in new window or tab.

Test Results for California's Assessments Website External link opens in new window or tab. – For directions on how to view results, go to Quick Reference Guides.

Laws, Regulations, and Requirements

California Education Code Section 60640 External link opens in new window or tab.

Federal Listening/Speaking Waiver (PDF)

CAASPP RegulationsExternal link opens in new window or tab.

The 1.0 Percent Threshold on Alternate Assessments

Technical Documents

CAA Blueprint for ELA (DOC)

CAA Blueprint for Mathematics, revised November 2016 (DOC)

Questions:   California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress Office | CalAlt@cde.ca.gov | 916-445-8765
Last Reviewed: Tuesday, October 10, 2023
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