The state tests explained for Alabama parents
Alabama students take the Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program (ACAP) Summative each spring: English language arts and math in grades 2 to 8, and science in grades 4, 6 and 8. The tests are separate from the report card. Under the Alabama Literacy Act, 3rd grade reading results also help decide whether a child moves on to 4th grade.
The state tests at a glance
- Who takes them
- English language arts and math: grades 2 to 8. Science: grades 4, 6 and 8. Students with the most significant cognitive disabilities may take ACAP Alternate instead.
- What they cover
- ACAP checks the Alabama Course of Study for the grade: reading, writing and language, math, and science, including questions that ask students to explain and use evidence.
- When
- Students test online in the spring. ALSDE sets the testing window each year, and districts choose dates within it.
- How results are described
- Scores are reported in four achievement levels, from Level 1 to Level 4. Levels 3 and 4 count as proficient. Your school shares a score report for your child.
- The 3rd grade reading rule
- Under the Alabama Literacy Act, 3rd graders need to show grade-level reading to move on to 4th grade, most often through the ACAP reading score. There are other ways to show it, such as a reading portfolio or a summer reading camp, and some good-cause exemptions. Ask your school early if you have questions.
- Report card link
- State test scores don't change your child's report card grades. They are one more snapshot for families, teachers and schools.
Dates and details change from year to year. Your school and the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) have the current information.
How to help your child feel ready
- Keep routines simple: regular sleep, a good breakfast and a calm morning.
- Read together often, then ask your child to retell what happened and explain why.
- Encourage short daily writing: a journal entry, a note or a list with reasons.
- Practice math with real problems (shopping, cooking, travel times) as well as math facts.
- Tell your child the tests show what they know. They are not something to fail.
Practice the grade-level skills with Gradelings: 2nd grade, 3rd grade, 4th grade, 5th grade, 6th grade, 7th grade and 8th grade.
Common questions
The Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program is Alabama's set of state tests. ACAP Summative covers English language arts and math in grades 2 to 8 and science in grades 4, 6 and 8, and ACAP Alternate is for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities.
Under the Alabama Literacy Act, 3rd graders need to show they can read at grade level, and the ACAP reading score is the usual way. Students who don't reach it can show it in other ways, such as a portfolio or a summer reading camp, and some are exempt for good cause. Your school will tell you early if your child needs extra reading help.
State tests are required in Alabama, and the state doesn't offer an opt-out like some states do. If you have concerns, talk with your child's school about accommodations and what the results are used for.
No. They are separate. Your child's report card describes learning in class through the year, using the grades your district chooses.
Gradelings practices the math, reading, science and social studies skills in the Alabama Course of Study with kind feedback and no timers unless you want them. It isn't a copy of the state tests and doesn't predict a score.
Also see: Alabama report cards explained and Learning practices.
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