What subjects are assessed?
The academic subject areas assessed vary from year to year. According to the NCLB Act, all subjects listed under National Educational goal number 3 are to be tested periodically in the National Assessment. Reading, writing, mathematics, and science are the most frequently assessed subjects. Reading and mathematics are tested every 2 years. To minimize the burden on students and schools, no student takes the entire assessment. Instead, assessment sessions are limited to 1-1/2 to 2 hours. Questionnaires are also given to students, teachers, and principals in order to obtain current information about school and instructional practices that may influence learning and student performance.
