EQAO: The basics

As you probably already know, our school's full EQAO results are available online, but this 31-page document is difficult to interpret and hard to put into context. Clairlea vice-principal Mr. Frenette recently spent some time with me explaining Clairlea's results and its action plan.

I'll summarize that conversation over the next couple of posts. But first, some basics.

What is EQAO?

EQAO stands for Education Quality and Accountability Office. It is the province of Ontario's standardized testing program for grade 3 and grade 6. It offers a snapshot of students' abilities in reading, writing and mathematics. The test is mandatory, although exemptions are sometimes given.

Is there a different test for French immersion students?

Both French immersion and English students take the test. However, grade 3 French immersion students only take the math test, and that test is given in French. In grade 6, French immersion students do all three tests in English, just like the English stream.

See EQAO's Parent’s Guide for more information on how and when the tests are administered.

How are the tests scored?

Based on their answers, each student is assigned a level in reading, writing and math. Here’s what the levels mean:

· Level 1: Falls much below the provincial standard. (The student has demonstrated some of the required knowledge and skills in limited ways.)

· Level 2: Approaches the provincial standard. (The student has demonstrated some of the required knowledge and skills.)

· Level 3: At the provincial standard. (The student has demonstrated most of the required knowledge and skills.)

· Level 4: Surpasses the provincial standard. (The student has demonstrated the required knowledge and skills.)

In my next post: how did Clairlea do?