Science Newsletter
K-5 Science Planning Toolkits: Resources for Teachers
California implements CAST Assessments
The new CAST, (California Science Test), assessment is now operational for the 2018-2019 academic year in 5th grade, 8th grade and 12th grade in high school. This assessment will take place within the CAASPP testing window (January 8, 2019 to July 15, 2019 . There will no longer be a pencil and paper CST assessment given in Science which will be given in an online computer-based testing format.
The CAST is computer based and adaptive, containing three segments: A, B and C. Each segment tests grade level Performance Expectations. Click on link below for more information.
CAST Practice Test now available
Practice test items are available for grades 5, 8, and high school. Click on the following link: aaspp.org/practice-and-training. Click on practice training test.
Next Generation Science Standards
Selected Next Generation Science Standards Resources
Blogs and Websites
- California Classroom Science NGSS Blog
- NGSS Early Implementers Blog
- CA NGSS Resource Center (San Diego County Office of Education)
- CoreLaborate: Science Blog out of NGSS-Adoption State of Washington
- Exploring NGSS (Sonoma County Office of Education)
- NGSS PLN: An online professional learning network (by Tricia Shelton in Kentucky)
- Next Generation Chemistry
- 21st Century Science Literacy (ScisLife)
- sullyscience (by Taylor Sullivan in Kentucky)
- Adventures in Learning
Other Websites:
Parent Resources
California Department of Education: CAST Pilot Test Update
Click below to access a PDF on the latest CAST pilot update.
Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) Webinar: NGSS Pilot Updates
