The state tests explained for Maine parents
Maine students take state tests that are part of the Maine Comprehensive Assessment System (MeCAS): the Maine Through Year Assessment in mathematics and reading in grades 3 to 8 and the second year of high school, and the Maine Science Assessment in grades 5 and 8 and the third year of high school. The tests are separate from the report card and from class grades.
The state tests at a glance
- Who takes them
- Math and reading (the Maine Through Year Assessment): grades 3 to 8 and the second year of high school. Science (the Maine Science Assessment): grades 5 and 8 and the third year of high school. Students with significant cognitive disabilities may take an alternate assessment instead.
- When
- The Through Year Assessment is given more than once a year: in the fall and spring, which are required, and in the winter, which schools may choose. The science test is given in the spring. Each school sets its dates within the windows the Maine Department of Education announces each year.
- What they cover
- The math and reading tests check the Maine Learning Results in mathematics and English language arts. Because they are given through the year, teachers can see growth from fall to spring. The science test checks Maine's science and engineering standards.
- How results are described
- Scores are reported as achievement levels compared with state expectations, along with a growth measure for the through-year tests. Families get a score report from the school.
- Report card link
- State test scores don't change your child's report card. They are one more snapshot for families, teachers and schools.
Dates and details change from year to year. Your school and the Maine Department of Education 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.
- Practice math with real problems (shopping, cooking, travel times) as well as math facts.
- Ask “How do you know?” so your child gets used to explaining answers.
- Tell your child the tests show what they know and how they are growing. They are not something to fail.
Practice the grade-level skills with Gradelings: 3rd grade, 4th grade, 5th grade, 6th grade, 7th grade and 8th grade.
Common questions
It is Maine's state test in mathematics and reading for grades 3 to 8 and the second year of high school. Instead of one test in the spring, it is given in the fall and spring (and, if the school chooses, the winter), so teachers can see how much a child has grown during the year.
The Maine Science Assessment is given in grades 5 and 8 and the third year of high school.
No. They are separate. Your child's report card describes learning in class through the year, using the marks your school chooses.
Ask your school. Federal law expects nearly all students to take the state tests, and schools can explain their own policy and what happens if a family asks for their child not to test.
Gradelings practices the math, English language arts and science skills in the Maine Learning Results 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: Maine report cards explained and Guiding Principles.
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