Smarter Balanced Assessment Claims Overview

The module provides guidance on developing mathematics items and tasks for grades 3-5, focusing on appropriate vocabulary, number representation, context, and difficulty. It outlines the claims and assessment targets in the Smarter Balanced Assessment, emphasizing problem-solving, reasoning, and modeling skills.

What is the primary focus of the Smarter Balanced assessment module for grades 3-5?

• High school mathematics

• Elementary school mathematics

• College-level mathematics

• Preschool mathematics

Why is it important to use grade-appropriate vocabulary in assessments?

• To challenge students beyond their grade level

• To confuse students

• To ensure students can understand the items without difficulty

• To make the test more difficult

According to the Smarter Balanced style guide, when should numerals be used?

• For all numbers regardless of context

• For numbers that appear as the first word in a sentence

• For numbers 10 and above

• For numbers 0 through 9

What is the correct way to represent an unknown number in a mathematical problem?

• Using an empty box or a question mark

• Using an ellipsis

• Using a multiplication symbol

• Using a number sentence

Which of the following is an inappropriate context for grades 3-5 due to socioeconomic biases?

• Playing games in physical education class

• Going to the library

• Swimming pools and backyards

• Class trips

Why is a range of difficulty necessary in test items?

• To confuse students

• To make the test easier for all students

• To ensure all students score the same

• To differentiate between low and high performing students

What does claim one in the Smarter Balanced assessment focus on?

• Modeling and data analysis

• Problem solving

• Communicating reasoning

• Concepts and procedures

In grade 3, what is the focus of the domain 'Number and Operations in Base 10'?

• Solving problems with decimals

• Using place value to add and subtract whole numbers

• Understanding volume

• Graphing points on the coordinate plane

What is the main requirement of claim two in the Smarter Balanced assessment?

• To perform simple arithmetic

• To solve a range of complex problems

• To memorize mathematical formulas

• To write essays on mathematical concepts

What is the focus of claim three in the Smarter Balanced assessment?

• Concepts and procedures

• Problem solving

• Modeling and data analysis

• Communicating reasoning