An Alignment Study of a Local District’s Eighth-Grade Mathematics Interim Assessment With the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics

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Abstract

This study determined the level of validity of one school district’s 8th-grade mathematics interim assessments (IAs) when compared to the Common Core State Standards in Mathematics (CCSSM). A mixed methods research design was applied to quantitatively analyze the number of standards present, cognitive demand, and degree of representation of the standards in the IAs. Additionally, qualitative data were analyzed from discussions of a focus group comprised of mathematics educators and professors, who examined the CCSSM Practices present in the IAs. Results provided evidence of strong alignment between the IAs and the CCSSM standards and the need for further exploration of the Practices. Characteristics for identification of each Practice are needed for reliable identification of the Practices in test items.

Author

• Ryan Michelle Higgins, Coker College