The High School Proficiency Assessment (HSPA) is an exam that gauges students' progress towards New Jersey's Core Curriculum Content Standards. Students in the 11th grade take tests in English Language Arts and Mathematics. They must pass both of these exams in order to receive a high school diploma.
The HSPA replaces the Grade 11 High School Proficiency Test (HSPT11). Concepts on the test include, but are not limited to: Number Sense, Geometry, Data Analysis, Probability, Statistics, Discrete Mathematics, Functions, Algebra, and Literal and Inferential Reading Comprehension. A full description of state's academic standards by grade level and subject are listed on the Department of Education's website at
http://www.state.nj.us/njded/cccs/.
Each test features several question formats. The first are traditional multiple-choice items, asking students to choose between 4 answer options. The second type consists of open-ended, constructed-response questions. These problems may require students to display their mathematical reasoning skills with formulas and diagrams or write a short paragraph about a reading passage. Finally, the English exam also includes two writing tasks. Students must compose a narrative, descriptive or persuasive essay in response to each writing prompt.
Multiple-choice items are scored electronically, while contractors trained in the New Jersey's academic standards grade the open-ended and writing questions. The essays are judged based on a six-point rubric that takes into account such factors as organization and mechanics. The maximum point score for every subject is 300. Each student receives an assessment of Advanced Proficient (250 and above) Proficient (200 to 249) or Partially Proficient (199 and below) for each test. It is up to individual administrations and educators to come up with remedial options for students who fail to earn at least a Proficient score on any subject test.
While the tests are used primarily as diagnostic exams rather than for accreditation, certain scores may qualify students for special programs. These exams are held March and October. Check with your teacher for more information, including exact test dates.
