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Testing - SBAC Information

Smarter Balanced Assessments

The Smarter Balanced logo features the word 'smarter' in bold, followed by 'BALANCED' in a smaller font. A stylized triangle with blue, green, and gray sections is to the right of the text.

 

The Smarter Balanced Assessment is a set of state tests given to students in grades 3–8 and 10 to measure how well they are meeting grade-level standards in English language arts (reading and writing) and math. These tests are part of the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium, a group of states that work together to develop high-quality, consistent tests aligned with the Common Core State Standards.

The SBAC assessments are designed to go beyond multiple-choice questions. They include a mix of question types—like short answers, essays, and performance tasks—that help measure critical thinking, problem-solving, and real-world application of skills. The results give families, teachers, and schools valuable information about how students are progressing and where they may need extra support.

A passing score on the ELA and Math Smarter Balanced tests is a Washington state graduation requirement. 

 

Understanding Your SBAC Score and What It Means