SOL Test Scoring & Performance Reports
Overview
Standards of Learning assessments in English reading, mathematics, science and history/social science are made up of 35-50 items or questions that measure content knowledge, scientific and mathematical processes, reasoning and critical thinking skills. English writing skills are measured with a two-part assessment that includes multiple-choice items and an essay.
Student performance is graded on a scale of 0-600 with 400 representing the minimum level of acceptable proficiency and 500 representing advanced proficiency. On English reading and mathematics tests, the Board of Education has defined three levels of student achievement: basic, proficient, and advanced, with basic describing progress towards proficiency.
Performance Level Descriptors
Performance level descriptors are available for SOL tests in reading, history and social science, mathematics and science. These descriptors convey the knowledge and skills associated with each performance (achievement) level.
The achievement levels for grades 3-8 reading and mathematics tests are: Pass/Advanced, Pass/Proficient, Fail/Basic, and Fail/Below Basic.
The achievement levels for science tests, history tests, and End-of-Course (EOC) tests* are: Pass/Advanced, Pass/Proficient, and Fail/Does Not Meet.
* The EOC Writing (2010 SOL) test, EOC Reading (2010 SOL) test, and EOC Algebra II (2009 SOL) test have an achievement level of Advanced/College Path in place of the Pass/Advanced achievement level.
- Performance level descriptors for each grade and course test.
SOL Reporting Resources
The following resources are recorded versions of professional development opportunities provided to division and school staff regarding the appropriate use of SOL score reports and assessment data:
Fall 2014 Standards of Learning Score Reports for Non-Writing Tests (WMV) – a recording of a training presentation on the new Standards of Learning Score Reports available for Non-Writing tests starting in Fall 2014. The presentation includes an example and description of each report, as well as the location of the report in the secure, online assessment system. - Using the Student Data Extract File to Guide Instructional Decision Making (MP4) – a recording of a training session focused on analyzing SOL student level assessment data to guide instructional decisions. Multiple examples and demonstrations are included using Microsoft Excel data filters, pivot tables, and graphing capabilities.
- Using Student Reports to Guide Remediation: The Student Performance by Question Report (MP4) – a recording of a training presentation about the SOL Student Performance by Question Report and how school staff can use the details in this report to guide remediation efforts.
WMV videos require the free Windows Media Player plug-in. MP4 videos require the free Apple QuickTime player plug-in.
Standard Error of Measurement
The standard error of measurement is a statistical phenomenon and is unrelated to the accuracy of scoring. All test results, including scores on tests designed by classroom teachers, are subject to the standard error of measurement.