What is MAP testing?
The Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) tests are a series of academic tests used to measure and track students’ learning in specific subject areas. At WYIS, students are tested in the following subjects according to grade level:
| Grade Level | Subject | Testing Times |
|---|---|---|
| EC5 & Grade 1 | Math, Reading | Fall, Winter, Spring |
| Grade 2 | Math, Reading, Language Use | Fall, Winter, Spring |
| Grades 3-5 | Math, Reading, Language Use, Science | Fall, Winter, Spring |
| Grades 6-10 | Math, Reading. Language Use, Science | Fall, Spring |
What is the purpose of MAP testing?
MAP testing provides teachers with valuable information about a student’s learning. By analyzing the data from MAP
testing, teachers gain a better understanding of each student’s strengths and weaknesses across subject areas. Then, the teacher uses this information to design individualized instruction to help students continue to grow. For example, teachers can use MAP data to create Individualized Study Plans in IXL so that students can practice those skills they have not yet mastered. This is just one of the ways teachers use data from MAP testing to enhance instruction for our students.
Data from MAP testing is also used to track students’ learning growth over time. Fall MAP testing scores are used as baseline data to help teachers understand what students know and can do at the beginning of each school year. Data from the winter and spring administrations of the MAP test is compared to the baseline data from the fall administration, providing a picture of how each student’s knowledge and skills are growing throughout the year. This helps teachers and school leaders identify students who need additional learning support or intervention.
Winter testing dates
The winter dates for MAP testing are located below:
| Date | Grades |
|---|---|
| May 2-5 | Grades 4 & 5 |
| May 8-12 | Grades 2 & 3 |
| May 15-19 | EC5 & Grade 1 |
| May 22-26 | Grades 6-8 |
What can parents do to help their child prepare for MAP testing?
- Ensure that your child is present for school and arrives on time during the MAP testing window.
- Ensure that your child eats healthy, balanced meals.
- Ensure that your child gets at least 8-9 hours of sleep each night.
- Communicate to your child that they should do their best on the MAP tests but should not feel worried or stressed about testing.
Frequently asked questions:
-
Who will see my child’s MAP data?
MAP data is confidential. The data is only shared with the student’s parents, teachers, and school leaders. -
Will my child’s scores on the MAP tests affect his/her grades?
No, MAP scores do not affect a student’s grades in PowerSchool. -
If MAP scores do not affect grades, why are they important?
MAP data helps us to create a more individualized learning experience for your child and provides information that teachers need to ensure that every student continues to grow as a learner. -
Do MAP scores determine my child’s eligibility to move to the next grade?
No, MAP scores do not determine a student’s eligibility for the next grade. However, in high school, MAP data may be used to assess students’ readiness for Advanced Placement (AP) courses. -
Does my child need to study for the MAP tests?
No, students do not need to study or take additional classes to prepare for MAP testing. -
Does MAP testing take away instruction time?
Students will lose some instruction time when MAP tests are being taken. However, the information gained from MAP testing will help teachers create higher-quality instruction, which benefits students in the end. -
Can MAP testing help my child get into a better university?
MAP testing scores are not reported to universities; however, MAP data can help us improve our instruction and enhance learning for your child so that we can better prepare them for success in university.