FSA / EOC Preparation and Frequently Asked Questions

 

Here you will find frequently asked questions about the standardized tests, including Florida Standard Assessments, FCAT, End of Course and FSA End of Course Exams, you may be taking as DVIA students.  When in doubt, please reach out to your teachers for clarification.  These tests will be administered at your neighborhood schools during March 2 - March 13 (FSA Writing Grades 6 - 11), during April 13 - May 8 (FCAT Science 2.0 Grade 8, FSA ELA & Math Grades 6-8), during April 20 - May 15 (FSA EOC courses) or during April 20 - May 22 (EOC courses).

01

What are these exams?

 

They are similar to FCAT tests that you have probably taken in the past.  They may be based on the grade you're enrolled inThis school year (2014-2015), there are FSAs in Math and English for all grades 6 - 8 and FSA Writing for grades 6 - 11.  There is a FCAT Science for grade 8. There are FSA EOCs for students taking Algebra 1, Algebra 2 and Geometry. There are EOCs for students taking Biology, Civics and U.S. History.

02

Why are they important?

 

Standarized tests are used to assess your mastery of content.  Some repercussions of scoring poorly (Level 1 or 2) may be remedial classes like Intensive Math or Intensive Reading taking up your elective slots.  For Algebra 1, a passing score is required for a high school diploma.

03

How should I prepare for them?

 

There are a multitude of ways to prepare for FSAs and FSA EOCs.

1. Follow your teacher's instructions for required review videos or review session participation and ask your teachers questions when you have a hard time with a topic.

2. Maintain your pacing (or even work ahead) because your standardized testing will come before the semester ends (April/May) so you want to be exposed to all standards to be best prepared.

3. Complete the ePAT questions many times before your test date to feel confident about using the computer-based testing platform and question types that you may see.

04

What are some additional resources?

 

Remember that this is a new test.  This year is the first time they will be given in this format on the new standards.  There are not many practice materials out yet since no one has seen one yet.

Here are websites recommended by your DVIA teachers:

http://fsassessments.org/students-and-parents

http://escambiaschools.net/EOCReviews * Note this site is based on old standards but still a good resource.

http://www.flvs.net/myFLVS/study-tools/EOC/Pages/default.aspx

 

 

05

Do you have any additional questions?

 

Ask your teacher and you may see the answer here soon.