The ISAT Science tests are required in grades 5, 8, and 11. The cluster and standalone items directly align to the Idaho Science Content and Performance Standards. The items allow students to demonstrate their mastery of science and engineering practices, and crosscutting concepts imbued within the life, physical and earth and space sciences.
The high school ISAT Science test, is required to be taken by high school students in grade 11. This assessment is provided by the state and administered by the district. The clusters and standalone items are aligned to the high school grade band of the Idaho Content and Performance Standards. This is a comprehensive assessment that allows student to demonstrate mastery of the science and engineering practices and crosscutting concepts woven into the life, physical (physics and chemistry), and earth and space sciences.
The middle school ISAT Science test, is required to be taken by students in grade 8. This assessment is provided by the state and administered by the district. This is a comprehensive assessment that has cluster and standalone items aligned to middle school grade band of Idaho Science Content and Performance Standards. The assessment gives students the opportunity to demonstrate scientific and engineering skills and habits of mind in the life, physical, and earth and space sciences.
The elementary school ISAT Science test is required to be taken by students in grade 5. This assessment is provided by the state and administered by the district. This is a comprehensive assessment that has cluster and standalone items aligned to grade 3-5 Idaho Science Content and Performance Standards. The assessment gives students the opportunity to demonstrate scientific skills and ways of thinking in the life, physical, and earth and space sciences.
Idaho believes in high standards for all students, including students with disabilities. The overwhelming majority of students with disabilities can take the general assessment with the appropriate accommodations. Idaho uses a portfolio assessment under the IPASS application.
For students with the most significant, cognitive disabilities for whom the general assessment is not appropriate, the administration of the Alternate Assessment based on Alternate Achievement Standards (AA-AAS) may be appropriate with accommodations.
The Special Education and Assessment departments collaborate to inform schools and parents on the educational trends related to standards-based instruction, classroom assessments materials, and accessibility options.
General Questions Related to Special Education
Karren Streagle, Ph.D.
Special Education Assessment
(208) 332-6824
kstreagle@sde.idaho.gov
2020 Testing Dates
ISAT - Science (Grades 5, 8*, 11*)
March 16 - May 15, 2020
Science Alt (Grades 5, 7, 10)
January 6 - April 6, 2020
HIGHLIGHTS
Contact your District Test Coordinator, if you need an account to access the portal.
ISAT Science Score Reports*†
When your school district provides you with your student’s score report for previous ISAT in Science, you may have questions about what the scores mean, how they are used, and where you can find relevant educational resources.
- View the Understanding Your Student’s Scores | (Spanish) document to assist you as you review and discuss your student’s performance in Science.
- Note that each school district will provide the score report within three weeks of obtaining all scores for their district. Parents and families throughout Idaho may receive this information at slightly different times.
*Note: If you have questions about your individual student's score report, contact your local school district.
†Note: The 2019-2020 ISAT Science test will be a field test. Students will not receive a score or individual score report for this field test.
Resource Files
Content Standards
Interim Science Blueprints
ISAT Science Blueprints
- SY2019-20 Elementary School Science Blueprint
- SY2019-20 Middle School Science Blueprint
- SY2019-20 High School Science Blueprint
ISAT Science Test Time
Frequently Asked Questions
No content available.
Training Resources
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Resource Links
State Department of Education Links
General Links
- AAAS Science Assessment
- End of Course Test Portal*
- Institute for Educational Sciences
- Science Daily
- Science Kids
- Science.Gov
- Science Topics
- Ten Websites for Science Teachers
*Please contact your District Test Coordinator or if you need an account to access the portal.