STAAR Test: Your Questions – Our Answers

• Test Format: Primarily online assessment 

• Duration: Approximately three hours 

• Scoring: Four performance levels from "Did Not Meet" to "Masters Grade Level" 

• Passing Threshold: "Approaches Grade Level" or higher 

The STAAR test has evolved to include more interactive and engaging question types

Here's a summary of each new question type:

1. Equation Editor
   • Allows students to write mathematical responses using fractions, expressions, equations, or inequalities
   • Used in Math for Grades 3-8 and End of Course (EOC) exams
2. Text Entry
   • Students type a brief response like a number, word, or phrase
   • Used across various subjects and grade levels
3. Graphing
   • Students create graphs by selecting points, drawing lines, or dragging bar graphs
   • Primarily used in Math for Grades 3-8 and EOC exams
4. Number Line
   • Students demonstrate solution sets by selecting points, circles, and direction arrows
   • Used in Math for Grades 6-8 and EOC exams
5. Inline Choice
   • Students select correct answer(s) from one or more drop-down menus
   • Used in multiple subjects across different grade levels
6. Hot Spot
   • Students respond by selecting specific areas of a graphic
   • Used in various subjects for different grades
7. Hot Text
   • Students cite evidence by selecting highlighted text in reading passages
   • Primarily used in Reading for Grades 3-5, 8, and EOC
8. Fraction Model
   • Students represent fractions by dividing and shading sections of an object
   • Used in early Math grades (3-5)
9. Drag and Drop
   • Students evaluate and move options to specific areas like diagrams or charts
   • Used across multiple subjects and grades
10. Multipart
    • Two-part questions where parts A and B are scored separately
    • Often requires students to explain their thinking
    • Used across various subjects and grades
11. Match Table Grid
    • Students match statements or objects to categories in a table
    • Used in several subjects for middle and high school grades
12. Multiselect
    • Students can select multiple correct answers from a set of options
    • Used across different subjects and grades
13. Short Constructed Response
    • Students provide brief explanations or correct writing errors
    • Used in multiple subjects and grades
14. Extended Constructed Response
    • Students write in-depth responses analyzing or evaluating information
    • Used in the RLA test 

These new question types are designed to provide more comprehensive assessment of student learning and better align with classroom instruction.

Students' performance is categorized into four levels: 

• Masters Grade Level: Indicates exceptional understanding and application of knowledge, ready for advanced coursework or next steps in education or career.

• Meets Grade Level: Demonstrates solid understanding, with students likely to succeed in subsequent courses with minimal intervention.

• Approaches Grade Level: Shows partial understanding, requiring some targeted academic support to ensure success in future learning or professional environments.

• Did Not Meet Grade Level: Indicates significant gaps in understanding, necessitating substantial intervention for academic success.

To pass the test, students must achieve at least the "Approaches Grade Level" performance level. 

• Timing: STAAR tests for grades 3-8 are typically given in spring (April/May) 

• High School End-of-Course (EOC) Exams: Administered in June and December 

• Test Duration: Most students complete the test in about three hours 

• Format: Online assessment 

There is a STAAR Test Calendar available on the Texas Government Webpage. 

If you don't pass the STAAR test, you will usually receive extra help to improve in the subject areas where you did not pass. You will usually still be able to move on to the next grade level, and failing the test does not automatically mean repeating a grade unless there are other significant academic concerns. The school is expected to provide help for students who do not meet grade level.

• Grades 3, 4, 6, 7: 2 testing days 

• Grade 5: 3 testing days 

• Grade 8: 4 testing days 

• High School: Approximately 5 testing days total across 9th-11th grades 

New Flexible Testing Policy 

Test Duration 

• Designed to take about 3 hours 

• Test sessions scheduled for 3-4 hours 

• Important Change: No strict maximum time limit this school year 

• Students who need more time can continue testing until the end of the school day 

• For individual students with special circumstances:  

• Districts may allow a few extra minutes 

• Parents must be notified and agree 

• Transportation arrangements must be made 

• Not intended for extending test sessions beyond the school day 

• Check your school district's specific testing calendar 

• Ensure your child is well-rested and prepared 

• Communicate with teachers about any potential accommodation needs 

• Be flexible and supportive during testing periods 

• Student Assessment Testing Calendar 

• School district's testing coordinator 

• Texas Education Agency (TEA) website 

Remember: These guidelines are designed to support student success and provide flexibility in testing.