SBAC (Smarter Balanced) Assessment Explained

The Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) administers annual standardized tests in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics for students in grades 3–8 and grade 11 in member states. States using Smarter Balanced tests include California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, South Dakota, Vermont, Washington, and others.

How the SBAC Works

The Smarter Balanced assessments are computer-adaptive, meaning each student receives questions tailored to their performance level. This allows the test to measure students accurately both above and below grade level. The tests include both a Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) portion and a Performance Task portion, which requires students to apply skills to realistic scenarios over multiple steps.

How Are Scores Reported?

Smarter Balanced scores are reported as:

• Overall Scale Score: A number on a continuous scale that shows achievement level. Scale ranges vary slightly by grade.
• Achievement Level: Students are placed in one of four levels — Level 1 (below standard), Level 2 (near standard), Level 3 (at standard), and Level 4 (above standard).

Claim Scores

In addition to the overall score, Smarter Balanced reports “claim” scores that show performance in specific sub-areas. In ELA, claims cover Reading, Writing, Listening, and Research/Inquiry. In Math, they cover Concepts and Procedures, Problem Solving, Communicating Reasoning, and Modeling. Claim scores help identify specific academic strengths and weaknesses.

What Does Level 3 Mean?

Level 3 (“at standard”) is considered the on-grade-level benchmark. A student at Level 3 demonstrates the knowledge and skills expected for college and career readiness at that grade. Level 4 students are performing above standard. Students at Levels 1 and 2 may benefit from additional support and targeted instruction in the identified areas.