What is the PARCC Math test? How can I help my child prepare for it?

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The PARCC Math assessment focuses on assessing students in applying skills, concepts, and understanding. Students will be asked to demonstrate a deeper understanding of multi-step and real-world problems involving abstract reasoning, strategic use of math tools, precision, and perseverance.

A lot of practice is required to excel in MATH. However, many books and online resources are available that help learns the concept and provide training in online workbooks, Apps, and videos.

Before using these resources, it is necessary to know the structure of the test, i.e., the question types and the time allowed for each session. This will help students prepare for the right questions and how to answer within the stipulated period.



Question Types:

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For math, PARCC differentiates three different types of questions: Type 1:
  • Tasks assessing concepts, skills, procedures (machine scorable only)
  • Balance of conceptual understanding, fluency, and application
  • Can involve any or all mathematical practice standards
  • Machine scorable including innovative, computer-based formats
  • Will appear on the End of Year and Performance Based Assessment components
  • Type 2:
  • Tasks assessing expressing mathematical reasoning
  • Each task calls for written arguments/justifications, critique of reasoning, or precision in mathematical statements
  • Can involve other mathematical practice standards
  • May include a mix of machine-scored and hand-scored responses
  • Included on the Performance Based Assessment component
  • Type 3:
  • Tasks assessing modeling/applications
  • Each task calls for modeling/application in a real-world context or scenario
  • Can involve other mathematical practice standards
  • May include a mix of machine-scored and hand-scored responses
  • Included on the Performance Based Assessment component
  • Performance-Based Assessment (PBA) will be administered, once 75% of the school year is complete. It will consist of Type I, Type II, and Type III questions. In the PBA, students will be given a set amount of time to complete their tasks.



    Test Timing for EOY

    It is crucial to ensure that even for practice tests, the time allotted is maintained. Not only answering correctly but answering within the stipulated time is also very important to score well in any exam.

    > Grade 3 to 5 has 4 units of 60 minutes each

    > Grade 6 to 8 has 3 units of 80 minutes each



    Test preparation Tips:

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    Yearlong learning and fair practice are the keys to success in standardized tests. A wide range of books, apps, videos, and online workbooks are available, which help the student prepare for the tests, recognize areas for improvement and work on them. As parents and teachers, it would be good to use these resources and support the child’s learning and preparation.

    The online resources available will help you:

  • Understanding the standards and associated lingo
  • Know the tools used in exams (Blue arrows, review button, flag, highlighter tool, etc.)
  • Knowing and getting to practice tech-enhanced question types like drag and drop, highlight text, etc.
  • Preparation is the key to success. Unfortunately, today’s tech-savvy world has no shortage of resources that support this.

    Back-to-School Computer-based PARCC Practice Program for Schools

    Online PARCC Practice for Students

    The above article is an excerpt from PARCC Guidebook: Success Strategies for Teachers: Professional Development.

    To learn more about the book, click here.

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