What does this measure?

The percent of students tested who scored at level 3 or above—meeting or exceeding the state standard—on the Grade 8 English exam. The test is scored by placing a student’s performance in one of four levels.

Why is this important?

The middle school English examination serves as a checkpoint for high school preparation. Performance on this exam is a predictor of high school success in English.

How is the Greater Capital Region performing?

In 2008, 60% of eighth-graders passed the English exam, slightly above the results statewide. Since the exam was revised in 2006, the regional pass rate has consistently been four to six points above the state rate. The trend for the region and state was largely flat performance from 2000 to 2006, then a spike in performance in 2007 and a slight drop in 2008. Most of the region’s counties followed this trend, except Saratoga, which showed gains from 2000 to 2006.

Notes about the data

The tests were revised for the 2006 administration as the federal No Child Left Behind requirement to test all children in 3rd through 8th grades took effect. Therefore, results prior to 2006 are not comparable to 2006 and later.