Understand the specific tests for grade level (mathematics, reading, writing and science) as well as the concept of "performance level." The PSSA tests measure students' performance level at "advanced," "proficient," "basic" and "below basic" levels. The performance level cut scores are the numbers that schools and teachers use to measure a student's specific level.
Read the cut scores for performance level. Each student is given a numeric score based on how he performed on the test. The PSSA scorers provide ranges for each performance level: falling below the lowest number allowed is the cut off and moves the student down to the next lowest level. Performance level ranges are slightly different for each grade. For example, a grade 3 mathematics score in the "proficient" level must fall between 1180 and 1369. If the student scores above 1370, she will be in the "advanced" level, but below an 1180 to a 1044 is a "basic" score. Any score below 1044 is the "below basic" level.
Understand what each level means. The state of Pennsylvania provides performance level descriptors for each PSSA level. Knowing what the descriptors are can help you to determine a student's score level beyond the numeric value and general term (e.g., "basic" or "advanced"). The "advanced" level refers to a score that demonstrates superior performance with in-depth understanding. The "proficient" level includes scores that are satisfactory with understanding and a display of some skills. The "basic" score indicates a marginal performance level with a limited amount of understanding. "Below basic" scores show insufficient or inadequate skill levels.