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Smarter Balanced Assessment System

Information about the state assessments in English language arts/literacy and mathematics.

Program Overview

The Smarter Balanced Assessment System utilizes computer-based tests and performance tasks that allow students to show what they know and are able to do. It is based on the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English language arts/literacy (ELA) and mathematics and has three components designed to support teaching and learning throughout the year: the summative assessments, the interim assessments, and the Tools for Teachers formative assessment resources.

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) lists the tests of the 2022–23 California assessment system by subject content, test name, test type, student participant groups, grade levels, and testing window timeframe.

California Assessment Timeline (PDF) presents the assessment administration timeline.

Assessment Spotlight web page contains archives of all previous Assessment Spotlight emails. Send a blank email to subscribe-caaspp@mlist.cde.ca.gov to receive regular updates on the latest information about the statewide assessment system.

The Smarter Balanced Assessment System

Summative Assessments

Interim Assessments

Tools for Teachers

Resources and Communication Materials

Smarter Balanced Resources

Summative Assessments Educator Resource List (PDF)

Individualized Education Program (IEP) Resource List (PDF)

Resources for Communicating with Parents

Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium External link opens in new window or tab.

The Smarter Content Explorer External link opens in new window or tab.

Early Assessment Program

Test Administration

CAASPP Administration Website External link opens in new window or tab.

CAASPP Coordinator Checklists External link opens in new window or tab.

CAASPP and ELPAC Manuals Library External link opens in new window or tab.

Practice and Training Tests External link opens in new window or tab.

Student Accessibility Resources

Scores and Results Reporting

Electronic Student Score Reports Communications Toolkit 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.

Smarter Balanced Scoring Specifications External link opens in new window or tab.

Laws, Regulations, and Requirements

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

Federal Listening/Speaking Waiver (PDF)

CAASPP Regulations External link opens in new window or tab.

Technical Documents

Common Core State Standards

Smarter Balanced Achievement Level Setting External link opens in new window or tab.

CAASPP Technical Reports and Studies

Implementation of CAASPP

Questions:   California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress Office | caaspp@cde.ca.gov | 916-445-8765
Last Reviewed: Wednesday, August 3, 2022
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