The FCAT (pronounced "ef-cat") is a test given annually to all students in grades 3 through 11. The test measures student achievement in reading, writing, mathematics, and science based on the state's grade-level standards. In grades 4, 8 and 10 students take a writing test which consists of an essay and multiple choice questions. A reading and mathematics test is given in grades 3 through 10. In grades 5, 8 and 11 students take a science test.
The FCAT scores are returned before the end of the school year. Students who score at level 1 on the grade 3 FCAT reading test will not be promoted, unless there is other evidence that proves these students can read on grade level. Students must pass the 10th grade FCAT in reading and math in order to graduate.
| More on GreatSchools.net: Testing in Florida: An Overview A+ Plan for Education: Florida's Blueprint for Improving Schools |
SSS: Sunshine State Standards
The Sunshine State Standards are Florida's version of state learning standards, which set expectations for student achievement. They are divided into eight subject areas: the arts, foreign languages, health, physical education, language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. Each of these standards is divided into grade clusters (pre K-2, 3-5, 6-8 and 9-12), giving school districts some flexibility in designing curriculum. As Florida strives for more accountability, the Sunshine State Standards for the subject areas of language arts, mathematics, science and social studies have been further refined into specific grade-level expectations. One part of the FCAT measures achievement of the standards in language arts and mathematics in grades 3-10.
A+ Plan for Education
Under this plan, the state grades schools on an A to F scale. In this way the schools and the public are aware of the overall level of student achievement at each school. Each school's score is based on a complicated formula that takes into account:
- FCAT scores
- Percentage of eligible students who took the test
- Whether or not the lowest-level students are making adequate progress
Students attending failing schools have the option to attend any public school that scored a C or better in the county or adjacent county.
OSI: Office of School Improvement
A division of the Florida Department of Education, this office provides assistance to low-performing schools.
Florida DOE: Department of Education
The Florida DOE administers the FCAT and is responsible for overseeing the Florida State Accountability System, as well as state education policies. Test scores for schools, districts and the state, and school grades are posted on their Web site. The 2006 version of the FCAT is available online.
You can also find test scores by checking GreatSchools.net School Profiles.
Updated January 2006
