TSIA 2.0 Testing Resources
Use the proctor checklist and proctor instructions to administer the test. You can download the checklist and instructions for testing with paper Scantrons here:
If you are using Cambridge’s Online Answer Form instead of paper Scantrons, use the proctor checklist and instructions provided on that site (data.cambridgeed.com).
And if your students are testing on the Score Booster, have them follow the directions on the Score Booster to take the test.
Pre-Testing and Course Planning
The goal of pre-testing is to collect accurate data. In order to gather accurate data you need to (1) simulate the testing experience as closely as possible and (2) communicate your data needs to Cambridge for timely data processing.
Simulate the Testing Experience
First, you need to simulate the testing experience as closely as possible. Schedule the pre-test, gather your materials, and prepare your students.
Schedule the Pre-Test
You have several options when you pre-test.
- If you are using Cambridge’s print, non-adaptive test you will be able to both receive score reports and review the test questions as a class.
- Schedule one unbroken test session if you are using this option.
- If you are using Cambridge’s non-adaptive test and having students enter their answers in our Online Answer Form, you will be able to both receive score reports and review the test questions as a class, as mentioned above.
- Students can easily use the Online Answer Form in class, at home in a scheduled test session, or on their own within a testing window.
- Schedule one unbroken test session or have students set aside time to take the entire test on their own if you are using this option.
- If you would prefer to have students complete an adaptive test, you can use the Cambridge Score Booster. You will not be able to review all the test questions as a class and you will not receive Cambridge’s assessment reports, but you will be able to discuss the testing experience and you will be able to log in and review the students’ testing attempts.
- The Score Booster tests are untimed. You can administer them in class or have students complete them as homework. The time required for each student to complete the test will vary, but you should set aside at least an hour per test section.
Gather Your Materials
Be sure that you are familiar with the Proctor Checklist and Proctor Instructions (available in Step 2) and that you have collected and reviewed all the testing materials listed in the Proctor Checklist.
The proctor information is available for each proctoring situation (paper or online materials, in person or remote proctoring), so be sure to use the instructions that apply to your pre-testing implementation.
If you are using printed test booklets, look at the ScantronTM Information Form (included with your materials) to determine which of the tests students should take as a pre-test. It is absolutely necessary that students take the correct test as a pre-test because some teacher’s guide lessons draw from particular form codes to reinforce concepts. Do NOT administer the same test as both a pre- and post-test.
If you are self-scoring your tests, either have your students write their answers on a separate sheet of paper or contact a Cambridge rep to order blank Scantron forms. You will also need lined paper to distribute when students respond to the essay prompt.
Prepare Your Students
Notify students ahead of time to bring several No. 2 pencils (online students can use any writing utensil), an acceptable calculator, and a watch to pace themselves while testing (optional). An acceptable calculator is defined as a four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator.
Communicate Your Data Needs
NOTE: If you are not receiving reports from Cambridge’s assessment service (either because you are self-scoring or because you are using the Score Booster), proceed to Step 2.
Before you pre-test, go to https://data.cambridgeed.com to verify your testing details and finalize your reports (including requesting custom lesson plans). You will log in using your location code and location email address. If you do not know your location code or the email address associated with your account, call (847) 299-2930. PrepMyData helps you confirm that you are ready for testing and that you will receive timely reports.
Pre-Slugging
Cambridge offers a pre-slugging service (we fill in your students’ names, IDs, etc. on their Scantron sheets). We recommend this service because:
- The sheets will be returned to the school with the student information already filled in, which saves time on the testing day and reduces the chance of errors.
- By providing additional information about the students’ class, teacher, homeroom, etc. Cambridge can create specialized data reports. For example, we can create an Instructor Summary and Error Analysis for Ms. Anderson’s 3rd period Algebra II class.
- If the school is using a pre- and post-test evaluation of student learning, pre-printing Scantron answer sheets is the best way to ensure that students are correctly matched.
You can download and then submit a pre-slugging file in the PrepMyData form. You MUST complete the PrepMyData form at least three weeks before testing in order to receive pre-slugged Scantrons.
Why Pre-Test?
Pre-testing is critical for both you and your students. First, pre-testing gives your students a real testing experience and a benchmark to help them set personal score goals. We know that testing may look different this year with some students testing in-person and others testing online. We are here to help you in any situation. Second, pre-testing helps you plan your course. You can use pre-test data to identify student strengths and weaknesses, adjust your lesson plans, and track your students’ progress throughout the course. And with Cambridge’s pre-testing reports, much of this work is already done for you. Cambridge breaks down the test items and gives you item-level and test-level data about your class, and Cambridge provides customized lesson plans based on your classroom data. We know pre-testing requires a time commitment, but it is key to making your program a success.
How to Pre-Test
Pre-Testing should be completed in four steps:
- Step 1: Prepare for Test Day
- Step 2: Administer the Test
- Step 3: Submit Your Answer Forms
- Step 4: Review Your Reports
Cambridge offers several testing options for both in-person (paper and pencil) and virtual learning. These include:
- Paper test booklets
- Paper answer forms
- Paper test booklets and online answer forms
- Completely online testing
Cambridge also supports several proctoring situations to fit your needs. We can help you administer tests in:
- A classroom
- A group remotely
- An independent remote situation
Regardless of how you’re testing this year, you’ll need to prepare for pre-testing. Download and print a copy of this PDFchecklist and then review the information on the following pages to be sure you have what you need to administer your pre-test in any of the situations described above.
| Task | Completed |
|---|---|
| Know what materials/program you purchased* | |
| Know how the test will be proctored | |
| Collect all documents | |
| Prepare and distribute your materials | |
| Schedule the pre-test | |
| Administer the pre-test | |
| Submit the results | |
| Review the data using Cambridge reports |
*If you are a Program Administrator, you are responsible for ordering the materials and communicating all pre-testing details to your staff. If you still need to order or if you have questions about pre-testing, contact Cambridge at (847) 299-2930.
2Administer the Test
Use the proctor checklist and proctor instructions to administer the test. You can download the checklist and instructions for testing with paper Scantrons here:
If you are using Cambridge’s Online Answer Form instead of paper Scantrons, use the proctor checklist and instructions provided on that site (data.cambridgeed.com).
And if your students are testing on the Score Booster, have them follow the directions on the Score Booster to take the test.
3Submit Your Answer Forms
If you are using Cambridge’s Online Answer Form, you will verify that student answers have been submitted on that site (data.cambridgeed.com).
If you are using print Scantrons, you will need the following materials to return your Scantrons for grading:
- PDFScantron™ Information Form
- Envelope and label provided by Cambridge
Before you mail in your Scantrons, make copies. Then fill out the Scantron™ Information Form. Cambridge uses this form to match your Scantrons to your responses on the PrepMyData form in order to process your data right away. Place the Scantron™ Information Form and your Scantrons in the provided envelope and affix the provided label. Then drop off the envelope at the nearest mailing center.
NOTE: Before sending in paper answer sheets for scoring, check to be sure students filled out their sheet in pencil. Any pen or light pencil marks can be marked over with a pencil. It is essential not to penalize students who did not understand the importance of using dark pencil marks. If answer sheets are not scannable, the school will be contacted to determine the best way forward.
4Review Your Reports
NOTE: The description below does not apply if you tested with the Score Booster. To review your students’ performance on the Score Booster, log in to www.CambridgeVictory.com with the teacher account that was provided for you.
You will receive your students’ reports within six business days after we receive your Scantrons. The reports can be delivered in four different ways:
- Electronic student reports sent through email to the school within 6 days of receipt.
- Electronic student reports expedited and sent to the school within 2 days of receipt.
- Printed paper student reports expedited and shipped directly to the school within 3 days of receipt.
- Printed paper student reports shipped directly to the school within 6 days of receipt.
If you used Cambridge’s online answer form, you will receive some of your reports immediately.Cambridge’s several data packages are outlined below.
After you receive your reports, distribute the student reports to your students and review the teacher reports to identify your students’ strengths and weaknesses. If you would like to send a letter home to parents attached to their student’s reports, contact Cambridge Support staff at 847-299-2930.
For more information on how to read your reports, click PDFHERE.
In addition to reports, you should have also received custom lesson plans and a Cambridge Navigator packet. Your custom lesson plans are based on your course length and your students’ pre-test scores. They provide a breakdown of the content you should cover in each hour of class. Click on the link below to download your Navigator packet.
Navigator Packets
The Navigator includes an answer key and explanations for each item on your pre-test. Review the tests with your students as soon after administration as possible. Use the Navigator to discuss items your students found challenging. Download the Navigator for your pre-test form code from the list below.
Practice Testing
Why You Should Assign Practice Tests
Students show improvement after practice testing because practice tests:
- reinforce test content;
- help students become more comfortable with time restrictions and pacing;
- reduce test anxiety through test familiarity; and
- give students the chance to practice alternative test-taking strategies.
In order to provide computer-based practice, we recommend that students work with the Score Booster for the TSIA 2.0 for this step in their course.
How to Use the Practice Tests
Depending on your course format, you may work through parts of the practice tests as a class or assign them as homework. You should only assign the items that correspond to the subject area that you are teaching at that time.
Scoring the Practice Tests
The Score Booster tests are automatically scored and provide students with feedback and a chance to review their previous test attempts.
Post-Testing and Feedback
Why Post-Test?
The post-test reflects what has already been accomplished with the pre-test by continuing to measure the true impact of the Cambridge course. Students are given the opportunity to apply everything that they have learned up to this point. The post-test enables a pre- and post-test comparison that measures both student and teacher progress. Teachers and administrators use this valuable pre- and post-test comparison data to fine-tune existing instruction, help students formulate personal action plans, and plan changes to the program to allow for even greater growth.
How to Post-Test
Post-Testing should be completed in four steps:
- Step 1: Prepare for Test Day
- Step 2: Administer the Test
- Step 3: Submit Your Answer Forms
- Step 4: Review Your Reports
Cambridge offers several testing options for both in-person (paper and pencil) and virtual learning. These include:
- Paper test booklets
- Paper answer forms
- Paper test booklets and online answer forms
- Completely online testing
Cambridge also supports several proctoring situations to fit your needs. We can help you administer tests in:
- A classroom
- A group remotely
- An independent remote situation
Regardless of how you’re testing this year, you’ll need to prepare for post-testing. Download and print a copy of this PDFchecklist and then review the information on the following pages to be sure you have what you need to administer your post-test in any of the situations described above.
| Task | Completed |
|---|---|
| Know what materials/program you purchased* | |
| Know how the test will be proctored | |
| Collect all documents | |
| Prepare and distribute your materials | |
| Schedule the post-test | |
| Administer the post-test | |
| Submit the results | |
| Review the data using Cambridge reports |
*If you are a Program Administrator, you are responsible for ordering the materials and communicating all post-testing details to your staff. If you still need to order or if you have questions about post-testing, contact Cambridge at (847) 299-2930.
1Prepare For Test Day
The goal of post-testing is to collect accurate data. In order to gather accurate data you need to (1) simulate the testing experience as closely as possible and (2) communicate your data needs to Cambridge for timely data processing.
Simulate the Testing Experience
First, you need to simulate the testing experience as closely as possible. Schedule the post-test, gather your materials, and prepare your students.
Schedule the Post-Test
You have several options when you post-test. Cambridge recommends that you use the same testing method for pre- and post-testing.
- If you are using Cambridge’s print, non-adaptive test you will be able to both receive score reports and review the test questions as a class.
- Schedule one unbroken test session if you are using this option.
- If you are using Cambridge’s non-adaptive test and having students enter their answers in our Online Answer Form, you will be able to both receive score reports and review the test questions as a class, as mentioned above.
- Students can easily use the Online Answer Form in class, at home in a scheduled test session, or on their own within a testing window.
- Schedule one unbroken test session or have students set aside time to take the entire test on their own if you are using this option.
- If you would prefer to have students complete an adaptive test, you can use the Cambridge Score Booster. You will not be able to review all the test questions as a class and you will not receive Cambridge’s assessment reports, but you will be able to discuss the testing experience and you will be able to log in and review the students’ testing attempts.
- The Score Booster tests are untimed. You can administer them in class or have students complete them as homework. The time required for each student to complete the test will vary, but you should set aside at least an hour per test section.
Gather Your Materials
Be sure that you are familiar with the Proctor Checklist and Proctor Instructions (available in Step 2) and that you have collected and reviewed all the testing materials listed in the Proctor Checklist.
The proctor information is available for each proctoring situation (paper or online materials, in person or remote proctoring) so be sure to use the instructions that apply to your testing implementation.
If you are using printed test booklets, look at the Scantron™ Information Form (included with your materials) to determine which of the tests students should take as a post-test. Do NOT administer the same test as both a pre- and post-test.
If you are self-scoring your tests, either have your students write their answers on a separate sheet of paper or contact a Cambridge rep to order blank Scantron forms. You will also need lined paper to distribute when students respond to the essay prompt.
Prepare Your Students
Notify students ahead of time to bring several No. 2 pencils (online students can use any writing utensil), an acceptable calculator, and a watch to pace themselves while testing (optional). An acceptable calculator is defined as a four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator.
Cambridge offers a pre-slugging service (we fill in your students’ names, IDs, etc. on their Scantron sheets). We recommend this service because:
- The sheets will be returned to the school with the student information already filled in, which saves time on the testing day and reduces the chance of errors.
- By providing additional information about the students’ class, teacher, homeroom, etc. Cambridge can create specialized data reports. For example, we can create an Instructor Summary and Error Analysis for Ms. Anderson’s 3rd period Algebra II class.
- If the school is using a pre- and post-test evaluation of student learning, pre-printing Scantron answer sheets is the best way to ensure that students are correctly matched.
You can download and then submit a pre-slugging file in the PrepMyData form. You MUST complete the PrepMyData form at least three weeks before testing in order to receive pre-slugged Scantrons.- If you are using Cambridge’s print, non-adaptive test you will be able to both receive score reports and review the test questions as a class.
2Administer the Test
Use the proctor checklist and proctor instructions to administer the test. You can download the checklist and instructions for testing with paper Scantrons here:
If you are using Cambridge’s Online Answer Form instead of paper Scantrons, use the proctor checklist and instructions provided on that site (data.cambridgeed.com).
And if your students are testing on the Score Booster, have them follow the directions on the Score Booster to take the test.
3Submit Your Answer Forms
If you are using Cambridge’s Online Answer Form, you will verify that student answers have been submitted on that site (data.cambridgeed.com).
If you are using print Scantrons, you will need the following materials to return your Scantrons for grading:
- PDFScantron™ Information Form
- Envelope and label provided by Cambridge
Before you mail in your Scantrons, make copies. Then fill out the Scantron™ Information Form. Cambridge uses this form to match your Scantrons to your responses on the PrepMyData form in order to process your data right away. Place the Scantron™ Information Form and your Scantrons in the provided envelope and affix the provided label. Then drop off the envelope at the nearest mailing center.
NOTE: Before sending in paper answer sheets for scoring, check to be sure students filled out their sheet in pencil. Any pen or light pencil marks can be marked over with a pencil. It is essential not to penalize students who did not understand the importance of using dark pencil marks. If answer sheets are not scannable, the school will be contacted to determine the best way forward.
4Review Your Reports
NOTE: The description below does not apply if you tested with the Score Booster. To review your students’ performance on the Score Booster, log in to www.CambridgeVictory.com with the teacher account that was provided for you.
You will receive your students’ reports within six business days after we receive your Scantrons. The reports can be delivered in four different ways:
- Electronic student reports sent through email to the school within 6 days of receipt.
- Electronic student reports expedited and sent to the school within 2 days of receipt.
- Printed paper student reports expedited and shipped directly to the school within 3 days of receipt.
- Printed paper student reports shipped directly to the school within 6 days of receipt.
If you used Cambridge’s online answer form, you will receive some of your reports immediately.Cambridge’s several data packages are outlined below.
After you receive your reports, distribute the student reports to your students and review the teacher reports to identify your students’ strengths and weaknesses. If you would like to send a letter home to parents attached to their student’s reports, contact Cambridge Support staff at 847-299-2930.
For more information on how to read your reports, click PDFHERE. In addition to the reports you received after you post-tested, you will also receive a Pre-Post Instructor Summary comparing your students’ performance on the two tests.
In addition to reports, you should have also received a Cambridge Navigator packet. Click on the link below to download your Navigator packet.
The Navigator includes an answer key and explanations for each item on your post-test. Review the tests with your students as soon after administration as possible. Use the Navigator to discuss items your students found challenging. Download the Navigator for your post-test form code from the list below.