The TAKS was created in 2003 to show how well a student is able to use the skills taught throughout the year, in accordance with the statewide educational standards. Third- through 11th-graders are tested annually in reading and math, and students in the fifth and eighth grades cannot be promoted to the next grade if they do not pass both subjects. Additional subjects are tested in certain grades: writing in fourth and seventh grades; science in fifth, 10th and 11th grades; and social studies in eighth, 10th and 11th grades. The 11th-grade TAKS tests are treated as exit exams and students must earn a passing score to graduate. Those who don't meet the standards for graduation the first time are given opportunities to retake the test.
The SDAA is an alternative assessment designed for special education students so that school performance scores wouldn't be affected by learners who wouldn't be able to pass the TAKS. The test has been phased out by the SDAA-II, which was updated to more closely align with TAKS. The SDAA II tests students at their instructional level, rather than based on their enrolled grade level to work with their individual education plan, IEP.
Parents can help prepare children for the TAKS test by creating a study schedule for the subjects being tested. Previous versions of the test, along with answer keys, are available online from the Texas Education Agency. Teachers and parents can use these released tests as study guides to help students become familiar with the TAKS format for each subject.
Each test is graded and scored by the percentage of correct answers. The results for each school district are evaluated by the state to measure performance levels. Schools with a history of poor performance must take steps to improve or face sanctions that can include closing the school.