ISTEP | ISTEP FAQ's | SAT/ACT

ISTEP

ISTEP+ stands for Indiana Statewide Testing for Educational Progress-Plus. ISTEP+ is Indiana's statewide assessment administered to students at grades 3, 6, 8, and 10. At that grade 10 level, ISTEP+ includes the High School Graduation Qualifying Exam.

The Graduation Qualifying Exam started with the graduation class of 2000, Indiana high school students must achieve basic standards on the grade 10 assessment in order to earn a diploma. The Indiana state board of education has designated the grade 10 ISTEP+ exam as the high school graduation qualifying exam.

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ISTEP FAQ's

Why does Indiana have a High School Graduation Qualifying Exam?

The GQE became part of Indiana law in 1992 by an act of the Indiana General Assembly. The test was mandated in reponse to concerns of parents, employers, and the higher education community, who wanted to ensure that Indiana students would graduate and enter college and the workforce with skills they need for success.

By receiving a passing score on the GQE, Indiana students demonstrate basic proficiency in reading, writing, and math. Incorporating this requirement strengthens the value of an Indiana high school diploma.

What is the ISTEP+ test?

ISTEP+ measures student achievement in English/Language Arts and Mathematics. The GQE assesses Indiana's Academic Standards, testing students on the skills they have achieved in Kindergarten through grade 9.

What is the best way for teachers to help you prepare for the ISTEP+?

Teachers should provide you with clear information about the academic standards. Teachers should also remind you that the ISTEP+ covers material you should have learned by the end of last year. Communicating what is expected will enable you to do your best.

Local curriculum should be aligned to the state standards. Following these standards will ensure that you are provided broad coverage of important and meaningful content. In addition, teachers can work with you on general test-taking skills to relieve possible test anxiety.

How can parents help?

Parents can help by continuing to be involved in their local school and maintaining contact with teachers. Making sure homework is complete and regularly asking to see classroom assignments tells high school students that homework matters. Parents can also help by encouraging reading and sharing why reading is important. They can also show how mathematics is used in everyday life.

In addition, parents should know when the ISTEP+ is administered so they can discuss the test with you. If parents have questions or concerns about your performance on ISTEP+, ask them to speak with your teachers about how to best prepare for this type of testing.

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SAT/ACT

You may sign-up for the SAT/ACT online or ask your guidance counselor for more information. For more information go to www.collegeboard.com.

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