Schools
EQAO
Annually students in elementary and secondary schools write provincial assessments in reading, writing and mathematics. The assessments are developed and scored by the Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO). Each student that completes a provincial assessment receives an Individual Student Report (ISR) which outlines the student's overall achievement. School and board achievement data is used to improve teaching practices and to support student learning. Each school develops a school plan that focuses on strategies to promote positive learning and encourage students to be actively involved in their learning. School and Board EQAO Action Plans are posted on our website. Further information about the provincial assessments can be found at www.eqao.com.
Grade 3 & 6: The Grade 3 assessment of reading, writing and mathematics takes place in May. The report is available the following school year. An overall achievement by achievement categories (levels 1-4) is provided.
Grade 9: The Grade 9 assessment of mathematics takes place in January for students taking math in the first semester and in June for students taking math in the second semester. The report is available the following school year. Overall achievement by strand and achievement categories is provided.
OSSLT (Grade 10): Students in Grade 10 write the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test which focuses on reading and writing skills. The OSSLT is one of the requirements for an Ontario Secondary School Diploma. This test is administered in March of each school year. Students who do not achieve success writing this test will receive suggestions for improvement and will be given the opportunity to write the provincial test when it is next scheduled to be administered.
Ministry of Education's Policy/Program Memorandum No. 127 - OSSLT Requirement
Education Quality Indicators Program (EQUIP)
In keeping with national and international trends, Ontario is developing a comprehensive indicators program. The Education Quality Indicators Program (EQUIP) will produce profiles of schools, boards and the province, and include information that will complement and support the interpretation of assessment data. When fully implemented, EQUIP will: Provide a comprehensive and readily understood picture of education in Ontario; Ensure that student achievement is reported in the proper context; Establish a sound basis for program improvement efforts.
A Parent's Guide to EQAO Tests
http://www.eqao.com/pdf_e/09/Cpbweb_36e_0909.pdf