TCAP Scores to Count in Students' Grades

Published December 1, 2011

Starting next semester for students in third through eighth grades, TCAP scores will be incorporated into the final grade for the subjects of mathematics, reading/language arts, science and social studies as mandated by the State.

Per WCS School Board policy 4.700 (Testing Programs), students’ TCAP scores will comprise 15 percent of the final second semester grade. The Tennessee Department of Education will calculate the TCAP conversion on a 1-100 scoring range, for equitable distribution, based on how the State’s students perform on these assessments in the spring.  The State will then submit a score to the district for each third through eighth grade student for each of the content areas.  To-date, the district has not received information concerning the calculations or the methodology the State will use.  Below is an example of the district’s understanding on final grade averaging.

Example of grading percentages for third through fifth TCAP inclusion into second semester grade:

Second Semester - Percentage of final grade:

          3rd 9 weeks grade - 42.5%

           4th 9 weeks grade - 42.5%

          TCAP Grade - 15.0%

Example of a final grade average:

          3rd 9 weeks grade - 85 x .425 = 36.125 (B)

           4th 9 weeks grade - 95 x .425 = 40.375 (A)

        TCAP Grade - 88 x .15 = 13.2 (B) (this grade to be determined by the State)

 

89.70 (B)

                   Final Grade = 90 (B)

                                                                                                                                               

As soon as the State provides the district with more information regarding the methodology for score alignment and the date we can expect scores to be returned to schools, that information will be communicated.