The Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) is a standardized assessment used to measure student performance in Pennsylvania's public schools. It is administered annually to students in specific grade levels to evaluate their proficiency in core subjects.

Subjects Assessed

The PSSA assesses the following subjects:

• English Language Arts (ELA): This section evaluates students' reading, writing, and language skills. It includes reading comprehension, writing skills, and language conventions. (Grades 3 through 8)
• Mathematics: The math section measures students' understanding of mathematical concepts, problem-solving skills, and mathematical reasoning. (Grades 3 through 8)
• Science: Administered to students in certain grade levels, the science assessment evaluates knowledge and application of scientific concepts. (Grades 4 and 8)

Purpose

The primary goals of the PSSA include:

• Assessing Student Proficiency: The PSSA provides valuable data on students' understanding of academic content in the assessed subjects.
• Informing Instruction: Results from the PSSA help educators identify areas of strength and weakness in their curriculum and teaching methods.
• School Accountability: The PSSA is a crucial component in evaluating school performance and ensuring accountability in the education system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions in this FAQ. (FAQ en espanol)