How to prepare for and administer the Combined Science test

Information for Proctors

The test includes two parts: Concepts and Processes and General Science. Concepts and Processes covers scientific inquiry and the “big ideas” of science that give students a better understanding of the world and the way things work. General Science covers areas of life science, Earth and space sciences, and physical sciences.

Both parts of the science test will be combined into a single assessment in MAP TestTaker. Proctors will only select the appropriate Science test for the grade in the Test Selection Window. The score at the end of the test will include two RIT scores, one for each part of the test.

Each part of the test contains 32 items, for a total of 64 items. At the end of the first part, the second part will begin automatically. Students may experience a slight pause at the end of part one as the second part loads.

Setting up the Lab

• Verify that each computer is set to the correct date and time. The reports are dependent on correct dates. A wrong date can seriously compromise testing data.
• Select the correct test to administer to each individual student. See Guidelines for Choosing the Correct Test document.
• Select each student by ID number and/or name. You should search on the broadest criteria possible, for example, the first two or three letters in the student’s last name. This will allow you to find students who may have been previously entered with a misspelled name, a nickname, etc. and reduce the chance of you adding duplicate students.
• Verify correct test is assigned to the student. The test name is listed at the top of the screen.
• Bring screens to the Start Test position. If you used the index cards, lay the student’s name card on the keyboard so they can easily see it.
• Close the blinds as necessary to eliminate glare on the screens.
• Ensure that the lab remains secure upon the completion of setup to prevent student access.
• Refer to the script for the Student Directions for the Combined Science Test.
• Ask teachers to remind students to take a bathroom break and get a drink of water prior to testing.
• Ask teachers to have students bring a book to read when they are finished with their test.

Getting Started

• Have the teacher use the completed chart or numbered list to ensure proper placement of each student at the computer preloaded with his or her information. A good way to do this is to have the teacher hand out sticky notes or laminated cards to their students with their assigned computer numbers.
• When students have located their testing stations, advise them that they must wait for instructions to begin the test.
• Hang the “Do Not Disturb” sign on the lab door(s).
• Read Student Student Directions for the Combined Science Test to the students and have them begin.
• Remind students it may take a minute or two for the test to load before the first question appears.