The ISA represents Illinois’ commitment to preparing all students for college and careers, including in the high-demand science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The assessment also satisfies federal accountability requirements.
The ISA is designed to reflect classroom experiences. Students do not simply select an answer and fill in the bubble of a multiple-choice test. Rather, the ISA pushes students to apply their knowledge when they give answers. The results of the ISA will provide administrators with important data to help them make broad curriculum decisions at the school and district levels.
The ISA has three sections and is untimed. Students will take one section of the assessment daily over the course of three school days. The average completion time for each section of the ISA is 45 minutes. However, students may take more time if needed.
The assessment also offers students the option of having the test read aloud. Therefore, please make sure your student brings corded earbuds / headphones (Bluetooth earbuds or headphones will not work) to school on the day of testing. Also, please leave Smartwatches (Apple Watch, Fitbits, etc.) at home on these days.
We encourage you to talk with your children about the importance of doing their best on the ISA, while communicating that the assessment yields only one piece of information about them and their school’s progress. Students’ attendance, classroom work, homework, projects, performance on local tests, participation in sports and extracurricular activities, and contributions to the school’s climate and culture all help them grow and learn.
Thank you for your role in developing our students into lifelong learners. Please contact your me or your child’s principal with any questions regarding ISA.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Liz Ehrhart
Curriculum Coordinator