What is SBAC testing?

SBAC stands for Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium. It's a large-scale assessment system used primarily in the United States to measure student achievement in English language arts/literacy (ELA) and mathematics. These tests are aligned with the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), meaning they're designed to assess students' understanding of the specific skills and knowledge outlined in those standards.

Key features of SBAC testing include:

* Computer-based: Tests are administered online.

* Adaptive testing: The difficulty of questions adjusts based on the student's responses. This means a student might get easier or harder questions depending on how they're performing.

* Emphasis on higher-order thinking skills: Tests go beyond simple recall and focus on problem-solving, critical thinking, and application of knowledge.

* Performance tasks: In addition to multiple-choice questions, SBAC tests often include performance tasks that require students to demonstrate their skills through extended writing, research, or problem-solving activities.

* Reporting comprehensive data: SBAC provides detailed information about student strengths and weaknesses, helping educators tailor instruction.

It's important to note that not all states use SBAC. Different states utilize various assessment systems, though many have adopted assessments aligned with the Common Core State Standards.