Science Interims
Performance Expectation Item Clusters
Interim assessments are one kind of formative assessment, intended to inform classroom instruction. Results are not reported at the state or federal level, and there are no statutory requirements that teachers use them. Instead, they are one tool students and teachers can use to measure progress in their science-learning journey.
Montana's science interims reflect the structure of the Next Generation Science Standards, to which the Montana Content Standards for Science are very similar. Each online interim "testlet" addresses one Performance Expectation, using a cluster of items focused on a particular scientific phenomenon. Within each cluster, students will use a variety of technology tools and interaction types which providing an engaging way for students to learn science and become familiar with the online science assessment platform. (See the Practice Test page for information about MSA and AMSA technology tools and interactions.)
Each grade-band set of interims can by used by any Montana students within that band (3-5, 6-8, or 9-12). Even if your students don't take the MSA, AMSA, or ACT, you can use the science interims to gauge progress toward specific grade-level standards. You might also use these tests as models to create your own three-dimensional classroom activities and assessments!
Science Interims Overview
The Overview document lists the Performance Expectations for which interims are currently available. All the items were developed using the same process and criteria that are used to create items for the summative MSA. If students log in through the secure browser to take interims, they can access all designated supports and accommodations allowed in their IEPs.
The science interims are fixed-form (not computer-adaptive) tests. There is only one version of each. Students may take the interims multiple times, but the questions will not vary.
Quick Start Guide
VIDEO: Getting Started with Interims
Science Interim
Looking for information on Smarter Balanced ICAs, IABs, and FIABs? Check out the ELA and Math Interim Quick Start Video.
Other Formative Resources
The SCILLSS project has created series of professional learning and formative assessment materials that teachers can use to support classroom instructions. These materials include a Digital Workbook on Assessment Literacy and a Teacher's Toolkit for creating high-quality 3-D science assessments. You can check out all of these research-based materials at www.scillsspartners.org.