SBAC Parent Resources

• CDE Smarter Balanced Test (SBAC) Information

• Online Practice and Training Test Portal 

HELPFUL TIPS FOR PREPARING FOR AND TAKING THE SBAC

BEFORE THE TEST

Students feel more at ease with assessments when they have been exposed to and practiced the mechanics of the test beforehand. Have your student try taking a practice assessment to familiarize themselves with the layout and tools of the test. Discuss strategies for test taking, such as taking notes, using scratch paper, eliminating incorrect answers, and checking their work. It would also be good preparation to have your student practice typing and utilizing a mouse or trackpad if they are not used to this. 

DURING THE TEST

Students are not timed and many take a full two-three half days to complete their assessments. Students may take breaks between sessions to use the restroom or have a light snack or drink. Let your student know they may ask questions during the test if they are struggling with navigating the test, but the proctor may not help answer any questions related to the assessment content. Encourage your child to try their best, show what they know, and to not stress if they come across difficult or new concepts to which they have not yet been introduced. 

AFTER THE TEST

Let your student know you are proud of them! Trying and doing new things can be intimidating, but this is all part of the learning process. When you receive your student's scores, you can choose to share them with your child or use them for your own instructional guidance or curriculum planning. You may want to work with your student to set new goals for the year based on the scores, such as concentrating on writing or specific math skills, or improving their reading comprehension or vocabulary. The scores are for you to use to help support your learner and are one of many tools we use to help create a truly individualized education for all students. You can watch this video to help you better read an SBAC score report. 

Students with the most significant cognitive disabilities may qualify to take the alternate SBAC known as the CAA. This would be written into the student's IEP with their IEP team.