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 (PDF) 2022–23 California assessment system listed by subject content, test name, test type, student participant groups, grade levels, and testing window time frame.
- 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)
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
Student Accessibility Resources
Talking to Educators About the CAA (PPTX; 35MB)
Scores and Results Reporting
CAASPP Student Score Report Options
Test Results for California's Assessments Website
– For directions on how to view results, go to Quick Reference Guides.
Laws, Regulations, and Requirements
California Education Code Section 60640
Federal Listening/Speaking Waiver (PDF)
The 1.0 Percent Threshold on Alternate Assessments
Technical Documents
CAA Blueprint for Mathematics, revised November 2016 (DOC)
