Your Child and the Missouri Assessment Program (MAP)
What is the Missouri Assessment Program (MAP)?
The MAP is a series of tests that measures a child's performance in school. It is mandated by the state law (in response to the federal No Child Left Behind Act) to identify the knowledge, skills and competencies that Missouri students should acquire by the time they graduate. In grades 3-8, these are called Grade-Level Expectations (GLEs).
Unlike previous years, state budget cuts have resulted in the elimination of test sections that require the most extensive writing and work-intensive problem-solving. These sections include the "performance events" related to science and math questions and writing prompts that fall under communication arts testing.
When will my child take the MAP test?
April 2 - April 27, 2012 is the Missouri Assessment Program (MAP) testing window for Rockwood elementary and middle schools. Grades 3-8 participate in MAP testing.
Your school will inform you of the exact dates your child will be tested. If you have questions about the test, please contact the building test coordinator at your school.
Why is the MAP important?
It is one way to find out if children are learning what they need to learn with respect to the state standards for each content area at each grade level. The test will show what your child knows and is able to do according to the grade level expectations for his or her grade level.
How can I help my child succeed on these tests?
- Attend - Make sure your child is in school on the testing dates.
- Rest - Have your child get a good night's sleep.
- Nutrition - Give your child a healthy breakfast to start the day.
Some children sail through test taking without much concern. For many children, test taking, especially state and national standardized tests, can create anxiety. Here are some tips for parents that can help your child feel more confident about
tests throughout the school years.
What should I tell my child about the MAP?
- Try - Do your best. Some of the questions may seem hard, but keep trying and don't give up.
- Listen - Listen to or carefully read the testing directions. If you don't understand, ask the teacher to explain them.
- Opportunity - Help your child understand that the MAP provides the chance to show what he or she knows about a subject.
- Relax - Reassure your child. Children who are calm and sure of themselves do better.