Indian Creek School Admission Testing Overview for Students Applying to Grades 2-6

What will the testing consist of?

At the beginning of the screening session, applicants will participate in a small group icebreaker session with our Lower School Learning Specialist. This activity will help the students to relax and feel more comfortable before the testing begins, and will also allow us to observe the student in a group environment. Following this, students will take a computer-based Reading Assessment. This assessment is untimed, but typically takes about 30-45 minutes to complete. After the Reading Assessment, the students will be asked to complete a short writing sample. The children will be given a choice to either type their sample or write it by hand. After the Writing Sample is complete, we will take a short break. During this break, the children will have an opportunity to have a snack and use the restroom. We will also take them on a quick school tour and get some much-needed movement. The final piece of the test will be a computer based Math Assessment. This Math assessment is simply a survey that will give us information about what Math skills the student has mastered, and just as importantly, what he or she is ready to learn next. The Math test is untimed, but typically takes about 30-45 minutes to complete.

What type of Reading and Math Assessments will be given?

Indian Creek School uses the Measures of Academic Progress® (MAP®) tests in the areas of Reading Comprehension and Mathematics to determine each student’s instructional level in comparison to our current population, and to ensure that our program is a good fit. The MAP test is given to our current students to measure academic growth throughout the school year, and from year to year. MAP tests are unique in that they adapt to be appropriate for each child’s level of learning. If a student answers a question correctly, the test increases the difficulty in the next question given. Conversely, if a student answers a question incorrectly, a less-difficult problem will be offered next. This fine-tuning continues until a student reaches a baseline of a 50% success rate, and we have an indication of exactly where that student is in a variety of academic areas. As a result, each student has the same opportunity to succeed and maintain a positive attitude toward testing. And with MAP tests, we can administer shorter tests for admission placement, while still receiving detailed, accurate information about your child’s abilities. We are truly excited to have this tool which will allow us to hone in on every child’s individual growth and achievement. If you are interested in learning more about this test, you can find detailed information at www.nwea.org.

Should I be worried if my child has never taken a test like this before?

We realize that this type of testing (and sometimes any testing at all) is a new experience for most children. Our screening session is structured to ensure that we have a number of educators working with our applicants. We have activities in place to help the children to feel comfortable and alleviate any anxiety. Before the testing begins, the students are given a very detailed overview about what to expect, and even show them a “practice” video. While the testing session is taking place, our teachers are working closely with the students to make sure that they are progressing as they should be. If a child typically receives accommodations during testing, please let us know. These supports can also be provided during the MAP screening upon request.