Smarter Balanced Summative Assessments for Mathematics
The Smarter Balanced Summative Assessment for Mathematics measures the California Common Core State Standards for Mathematics in grades 3–8 and 11. Like the ELA test, it combines a computer-adaptive section with a performance task, and it is untimed.
Claims and item design
The test reports three claims plus a foundational one:
- Claim 1, Concepts and Procedures - measured by the adaptive section only, never by the performance task.
- Claim 2, Problem Solving; Claim 3, Communicating Reasoning; Claim 4, Modeling and Data Analysis.
Item types include selected response, equation/numeric response, graphing, hot spot, drag-and-drop, and matching tables. An embedded calculator is available only in grades 6–8 and 11; grades 3–5 have no calculator. Grade-level reference sheets (number lines, multiplication tables, formulas) are built into the test. The performance task presents one multi-step scenario with several linked items and is scored with rubrics that reward explanation and justification, not just the final number.
Worked example
A grade 6 student solves a division problem and gets a quotient of one and three-fourths. The equation response box rejects the entry. Reasoning: the equation response tool does not accept mixed numbers, so the student must enter the improper fraction 7/4 (or its decimal equivalent only if the item permits). Students should also avoid rounding unless the item states a required precision, because exact answers are expected in most equation items. Teaching the entry conventions before testing prevents losing points on mathematics the student actually knows.
Traps that cost marks
- Entering mixed numbers into equation items instead of improper fractions.
- Rounding when the item calls for an exact value.
- Writing only an answer on a performance task item and skipping the justification, which is where the modeling and reasoning points sit.
- Supplying a calculator to grade 5 students; it is not available at that level.
- Assuming Claim 1 is scored from the performance task; it is measured by the adaptive section.