Standardized Test Prep in Minnesota
Minnesota standardized tests are administered every year to public school students to gauge their progress and measure mastery of the state’s educational standards. They provide valuable information on how students are performing, and help determine if there are any gaps in education and if additional resources are needed.
This page provides helpful information on Minnesota assessments, when the tests are administered, how Time4Learning can help students prepare for standardized tests, and more.
What State Tests Are Available in Minnesota?
Each Minnesota state test assesses students on different subjects and throughout different years beginning in third grade. This allows the state to monitor student progress and ensure that they are gaining the knowledge and skills necessary to continue to succeed academically, and that they are college or career ready once they graduate high school.
Below are the current Minnesota assessments.
- Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA) – The MCA is administered to students in grades 3-8 for reading and math; grades 5, 8, and once in high school are tested in science; students in grades 10 take the reading portion; and students in grade 11 take the math portion. Additionally, students are assessed in specific science courses as needed.
- Minnesota Test of Academic Skills (MTAS) – This alternate assessment is administered for the same grades and subjects as the MCA. It is designed for students who receive special education services.
- ACCESS for ELLs – This assessment is administered to English learners to measure their English language proficiency. English language learners who receive special education services take the Alternate ACCESS for ELLs.
In Minnesota, students are able to opt-out of standardized testing. Parents who are interested should contact their local school district to get more information and find out what steps to take. This usually involves completing an opt-out form.
When is Standardized Testing in Minnesota?
Although dates are subject to change, Minnesota standardized tests usually take place during the same months each year. Testing windows typically last several weeks in order to ensure that all students are able to complete all the necessary exams. Below is a general overview of when Minnesota assessments are administered.
- MCA (reading, math, science) – March-May
- MTAS (reading, math, science) – March-May
- ACCESS for ELLs – January-March
Do Homeschoolers Have To Take Standardized Tests in Minnesota?
According to Minnesota homeschool laws, homeschoolers between the ages of 7-17 are required to take a standardized, norm-referenced test every year. While homeschoolers can elect to take the Minnesota state tests for a small fee, these are not nationally normed and therefore do not fulfill the annual homeschool testing requirement.
Families should reach out to their local superintendent to inquire about their test options as well as administration of the assessment they decide on.
How Time4Learning Can Help With Minnesota Test Prep
Being prepared for Minnesota standardized tests can help students feel confident and score well on these yearly exams. As a comprehensive curriculum for PreK-12th grade, Time4Learning can help your child prepare and study for these important state tests using a fun, engaging approach that allows students to progress at their own pace.
Below are a few ways that Time4Learning can help your child prepare for Minnesota assessments.
- Comprehensive math and language arts curriculum correlates to all state standards and provides well-rounded test prep for your child when taking the MCA.
- The Science4Us STEM-based online curriculum can help K-5 students understand complex science concepts through an interactive approach that makes learning fun.
- As a IBCCES Certified Autism Resource, students with special needs can confidently prepare for the state’s MTAS at their own pace from the comforts of home.
- Included with your membership is Time4MathFacts, a fun, gamified approach to learning math facts in addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.
- Students can prepare for the reading portion of Minnesota standardized tests with Time4Learning’s language arts curriculum that teaches reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and more.
- Our interactive math curriculum features multimedia-based instruction, plenty of opportunity for practice and the option to redo lessons and retake tests and quizzes.
- Flexible scheduling allows students to log in and learn on their time with 24/7 access, while printable worksheets are also included so that students can get extra practice on the go.
Through preparation and practice, your child can achieve successful results on their Minnesota standardized test scores. In addition, skill-building programs like Time4Learning can prepare your child and build their confidence before they walk in the door.
The software is a game changer!
By Regina
“…she leaped ahead of her peers on her state test when returned to public school, we used it during homebound when there was a mismedication, and use it now as a supplement for a teacher that refuses to teach.”
