In 1993, the Massachusetts Education Reform Act passed. The framework for the MCAS science and technology curriculum was introduced by the Department of Education in 1996. By 1998, the first MCAS tests were introduced to fulfill requirements in the new law. The initial tests included English, math, science and technology testing for students in grades 4, 8 and 10. The first class of students to earn competency determinations through MCAS in science and technology graduated in 2010.
According to the Massachusetts Department of Education, the MCAS science and technology/ engineering tests serve three purposes. The tests provide information for improvement on the science curriculum and instruction received by the student. They aid in the evaluation of the student, school and district according to MCAS performance standards. The results of the tests are used to determine eligibility for a high school diploma, also referred to as a competency determination.
Testing occurs at the end of the courses offered in grades 9 and 10 that cover biology, chemistry, introductory physics and technology/ engineering. All students are required to pass one of the four tests to earn a competency determination, a prerequisite to high school graduation.
Each of the four tests includes 40 multiple-choice questions and 5 open-response questions. There are a total of 60 raw points for each test. Scores are scaled, with a failed scores of 200 to 220 and passing scores of 220 to 280.
Twenty-five percent of the questions on the MCAS biology test refer to biochemistry and cell biology. Genetics questions, ecology questions and evolution/biodiversity questions each make up 20 percent of the test. Anatomy and physiology comprise the remaining 15 percent of questions.
Thirty percent of the chemistry MCAS test includes questions on bonding and reactions. Properties of matter and thermochemistry comprise 25 percent of the questions. Atomic structure and periodicity make up an additional 25 percent of the questions. The remaining 20 percent of questions are based on solutions, equilibrium and acid-base theory.
Forty percent of the introductory physics MCAS test revolves around motion and forces. Waves and radiation questions comprise 25 percent of the test. Electromagnetism is addressed in 20 percent of the questions, with heat and heat transfer addressed in the remaining 15 percent.
The technology/engineering MCAS test features 30 percent electrical and communication system questions, 30 percent fluid and thermal systems questions, 20 percent construction and manufacturing questions and 20 percent engineering design questions.