Ontario’s Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) administers various tests to students across Ontario each year. These tests measure students’ reading writing, and arithmetic skills. As students do not take an EQAO test each year and given that the test does not always cover the same topics, understanding the schedule of assessments can be complicated. Here, we will summarize the various assessments as well as what can be expected on the test day.
What are the EQAO Assessments?
Currently, the EQAO assessments constitute four tests that students take in grades 3, 6, 9th and 10th grades. There is a plan for a future Math Proficiency Test (MPT), but this is still being implemented in conjunction with the Ministry of Education. Testing typically occurs each Spring, with the exceptions of the tests in 9th and 10th grades which may occur in the Fall or Winter.
Which Tests Will My Children Take?
EQAO testing begins in 3rd grade. Here, students are tested in reading, writing, and mathematics, covering all skills in these subjects up to a grade 3 level. These tests occur in-class each Spring.
Students are tested again in reading, writing, and mathematics up to a grade 6 level in 6th grade. This test also occurs in-class in the Spring.
Once in high school, students must then take the Grade 9 Assessments of Mathematics course and the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT). The Assessment of Mathematics covers all subjects up to those covered in Ontario Grade 9 Mathematics (MTH1W). This test can either occur in January or Spring. The OSSLT covers all elements of literacy across all subjects up to the end of Grade 9. This test occurs in the Fall or early Spring each school year. Both of these tests are in-class.
Why are EQAO Assessments Important?
EQAO assessments provide a way for the EQAO to gather information regarding student education to inform future policy and decisions. The highlights and reports are published online and can be viewed here. Additionally, these assessments provide a useful benchmark for students, parents, and school staff to measure student progress and learning in a standardized environment.
How can I Prepare My Children for the CAASPP?
The EQAO offers several practice tests on their website to help children and parents get familiar with the test. They also provide framework documents describing the various assessments. However, the best way to make sure children are ready for the test is by checking how they perform during their formative tests and addressing gaps on time.
If your child is not performing well in his or her formative tests, talk with the school and ask them about extra resources that the teacher or yourself could use to improve their grades. Another option is to hire a private tutor that could work individually with your kids to help them catch up with their concepts in school and prepare for the test. SchoolTutoring.com offers one-on-one tutoring that can help your kids perform well in the EQAO assessments and even better do better in school. Check our program for Ontario Students and learn more about our programs and prices.
