Research Foundations

The Research Foundations of Acuity™ Predictive Assessments in Math, Reading, and Language Arts

With the focus on student achievement and proficiency propelled by mandates of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) and objectives to better understand the progress of their students, there is a growing need for research-based, valid assessments that inform classroom instruction.

Assessment Designed to Measure Proficiency, Track Progress, Target Instruction, and Predict Performance
Acuity improves student learning with research-based formative assessment that moves beyond traditional assessments to help educators make important decisions that boost student achievement levels in schools and across districts nationwide.

Predicting to State NCLB Assessments
Acuity includes three state-specific predictive forms per grade that mirror the look and feel of a given state assessment and include items designed to measure the state content standards in a manner that is proportional to what is measured by the state summative assessment. These assessments are aligned to state standards and deliver critically important predictions of how students will perform on a state NCLB assessment. This information can help teachers identify learning gaps and target instruction in order to improve student achievement.

Item Analysis and Scale Development
Items in each predictive assessment undergo both rigorous Classical Test Theory and Item Response Theory test and item analyses.

Prediction Studies
A variety of analyses and methodologies are examined to support the prediction studies. The models that best fit the data and provide the most accurate forecasts are identified and implemented.

Formative Assessment
Research shows that formative assessment can accelerate learning, predict performance on state tests, and motivate students to succeed. Diagnostic and predictive tests and accompanying in-depth reports provide the evidence needed to support positive changes in classroom instruction practices.

The consistent use of all the features provided in a research-based and technology-supported formative assessment program throughout the year can actually help teachers to be more efficient—and more effective.

By engaging students in every phase of the learning process and helping them see the progress they are making, new-generation formative assessment programs like Acuity are motivating students—and helping them achieve higher levels of proficiency.