MAP Testing

What is MAP Testing?

MAP is a computer-adaptive assessment created by NWEA (Northwest Evaluation Association) that measures student achievement and growth in multiple subjects, including:

• Mathematics

• Reading

• Language Usage

• Science

Key Features

1. Computer Adaptive Testing

   • Questions adjust in difficulty based on student responses

   • Each correct answer leads to a harder question

   • Each incorrect answer leads to an easier question

   • This creates a personalized assessment experience

   • Provides more precise measurement of student ability

2. RIT Score Measurement

   • Uses RIT (Rasch UnIT) scale (140-300)

   • Scale is continuous across grade levels

   • Equal intervals make growth measurements consistent

   • Same scale used across test sessions enables growth tracking

   • Independent of grade-level content

Testing Process

1. Test Administration

   • Typically given 3 times per year

     • Fall (beginning of year)

     • Winter (mid-year)

     • Spring (end of year)

   • Untimed but usually takes 45-60 minutes per subject

   • Conducted on computer or tablet

   • Features 40-50 questions per subject

2. Subject Areas Tested

   • Math: Number sense, algebra, geometry, statistics

   • Reading: Literature, informational texts, vocabulary

   • Language Usage: Writing strategies, grammar, mechanics

   • Science: Life sciences, physical sciences, earth/space sciences

Understanding MAP Results

1. Score Components

   • RIT Score: Overall achievement level

   • Percentile Rank: Performance compared to peers

   • Growth Projections: Expected progress

   • Learning Areas Breakdown: Detailed subject performance

2. Growth Measurements

   • Compares actual growth to projected growth

   • Shows whether student is meeting, exceeding, or below growth targets

   • Tracks progress between test sessions

   • Provides yearly growth targets

Using MAP Data

1. Instructional Planning

   • Identifies current achievement level

   • Shows ready-to-learn topics

   • Groups students by instructional needs

   • Guides curriculum adjustments

2. Student Growth Monitoring

   • Tracks progress over time

   • Compares growth to norms

   • Identifies learning trends

   • Validates learning rates

3. Goal Setting

   • Helps set realistic achievement targets

   • Provides benchmark data

   • Enables personalized learning goals

   • Monitors progress toward goals

Technical Aspects

1. Scoring System

   • Uses Item Response Theory

   • Calculates precise achievement levels

   • Accounts for question difficulty

   • Provides reliable growth measure

MAP testing provides a comprehensive, adaptive assessment system that measures student achievement and growth with precision, enabling data-driven educational decisions and personalized learning approaches.