We feel that standardized testing is a positive tool in the overall assessment of our students. This not only allows us to evaluate where possible deficiencies may exist, but it also enables to track students from year to year. We feel that standardized testing shouldn’t drive what we teach, rather it should simply reinforce the concepts that we are already teaching the students at MAPS. We feel that there is equal value in the teachable moments that arise during instructional time. These are the moments “outside of the curriculum” when our staff is equipped to maximize life lessons to our students with a godly character and even an ability to counsel if applicable.
Our testing methods for K-11th Grade is the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills (ITBS). From this information we are able to disseminate their academic successes in the areas of Vocabulary, Reading and Comprehension, Spelling, Grammar, Math Concepts and Estimation, Math Problem Solving and Data Interpretation, Math Computation, Social Studies, Science, Maps and Diagrams, Reference Materials, and Critical Thinking.
Our Sophomores and Juniors take the PRE-ACT test to help determine what the student’s ACT score may be when they take it after their Junior year. They test in the areas of English, Math, Reading, and Science.
may be when they take it as Juniors. They test in the areas of English, Math, Reading, and Science.
In summation, test scores are an important aspect of this school; however, if we do not minister and mentor the student while they are here, then we have failed! We are more concerned with raising up a generation of young people that have character then we are of having students who are good test takers! That being said, there is much value placed on learning and assessment because of its value in college placement. Upon graduation, ALL of our students have attended college. Here at MAPS we pride ourselves on challenging our students academically, while holding them accountable in their attitudes, conduct, and behaviors according to God’s Word.
