California Science Test
Since the adoption of the Next Generation Science Standards for California Public Schools, Kindergarten through Grade Twelve (CA NGSS), the California Department of Education has been developing a new science assessment based on the CA NGSS. The statewide California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) System includes federally required science assessments in grades five and eight and once in high school (i.e., grade ten, eleven, or twelve). This science assessment is the new California Science Test (CAST), which is based on the CA NGSS.
CAST Timeline
Implementation of the CAST is under way, as shown below:
| School Year | CAST Development | Available Testing Window |
|---|---|---|
| 2017–18 | Field test | From April 2, 2018, to within the LEA’s selected testing window, last day of instruction, or July 16, 2018 whichever comes first. |
| 2018–19 | Operational test | To be determined |
Eligible Students
The CAST is for eligible students in grades five and eight and one time in high school. All grade twelve students will take the CAST field test. In addition, LEAs have the option to test any or all students in grades ten or eleven; however, it is recommended that LEAs select grade ten or eleven students who are enrolled in their last high school science course. Once a student takes the CAST, that student is ineligible to take the test again. Refer to the High School Test Administration Flowchart (PDF) for additional information.
CAST Blueprint
On November 8, 2017, the SBE approved the CAST blueprint (PDF). The blueprint outlines how the CAST is constructed and documents the alignment of the CAST with the CA NGSS.
Administration of the CAST Field Test
The CAST field test consists of 32 to 48 items, two or three performance tasks, and a short survey. It takes approximately two hours to complete. For more information, refer to the CAST Available Resources Guide (PDF).
Preparing for the Field and Operational Tests
CAST Accessibility Supports for Operational Testing (PDF)
This report establishes the accessibility guidelines used during the development of the CAST operational test.
CAST Field Test Accessibility Resources (PDF)
This graphic displays the universal tools, designated supports, and accommodations (embedded and non-embedded) allowed as part of the CAST Field Test for 2017–18.
CAST Training Test and Scoring Guide
This training test provides sample CAST items for grades five and eight and high school, while the scoring guide provides answers and scoring rubrics. A third-generation training test will be available in March 2018.
Science Reference Tools for Students in Grade Eight and High School
Students can access CAST reference tools during online testing. The tools, which include a periodic table and a reference sheet of formulas and scientific constants, are made available to signal that students are not expected to memorize this information. They are not required to be used during classroom instruction and are not meant to guide instruction.
CAST Resources
- 2017 CAST Field Test Fact Sheet (PDF)
The who, what, when, why, and how of the CAST field test.
- Parent Guide to Understanding the CAST (PDF)
Provides answers to key questions, such as who takes the assessment and why, when, and how they are administered, and other questions parents and guardians might have.
- Quick Reference Guide: How to Start a Test Session (PDF)
Gives step-by-step instructions for how to start a test session for the CAST administration.
- Quick Reference Guide: How to Start a Training Test (PDF)
Gives step-by-step instructions for educators, parents, and students to access the training test for the CAST.
- CAST Training Tests Now Available (PDF)
Provides information about the purpose and importance of trying out the CAST Training Tests.
- At Which Grade Level in High School Do We Administer the 2017–18 Science Tests? (PDF)
Illustrates the requirement that all grade twelve students take the science test in 2017–18 and how LEAs have flexibility in deciding when to test their grade ten or eleven students.
- CAST video
Provides information about the CAST and the CA NGSS.
Related Resources
The following Web pages and sites include numerous resources for the NGSS.
- California Science Curriculum Framework
- California Science Teachers Association
- National Science Teachers Association
- California Science Project
- National Academy of Sciences
- Next Generation Science Standards
- Achieve NGSS Resource Page