Jerry Ross ISTEP+
Information Center


What is the ISTEP+?

In Indiana, all students in grades 3 through 10 take the Indiana Statewide Testing for Educational Progress-Plus (ISTEP+). Based on Indiana’s Academic Standards, the test includes English/language arts at each grade, as well as science at grades 5 and 7.

Solid reading, writing and math skills are "must haves" for a successful future. ISTEP+ is designed to make sure you master these basics on your way to earning a high school diploma. If you don’t know enough to pass the test, that’s a sign that you need some extra help.


What’s on the ISTEP+?

Based on Indiana’s Academic Standards, ISTEP+ covers:

English/language arts at grades 3-10
Mathematics at grades 3-10
Science at grades 5 and 7

ISTEP+ Samplers for Grades 3-5
Grade 3 ISTEP+ Sampler
Grade 4 ISTEP+ Sampler
Grade 5 ISTEP+ Sampler

Click here to see the Grades 3-5 Writing Applicationd Rubric

Click here to see the Grades 3-5 Language Conventions Rubric



What are the Indiana Academic Standards?

Academic standards ensure that students are receiving a quality education that will prepare them to succeed in the higher education option of their choice and in today's competitive job market.

The standards identify what students should know and be able to do at each grade in English/language arts, mathematics, science, social studies and additional content areas.

Links to Indiana Academic Standards for Grade 3-5

Grade 3
Grade 4
Grade 5
Language Arts
Language Arts
Language Arts
Mathematics
Mathematics
Mathematics
Science
Science
Science
Social Studies
Social Studies
Social Studies


When is ISTEP+?

ISTEP+ is given during the fall of each school year at Grades 3 through 10.


What results should I expect to receive?

Every student tested will receive a comprehensive Individual Student Report showing a designation of Pass-Plus, Pass, or Did Not Pass.

Families of students in all tested grade levels are entitled to see a copy of the student’s short answer, essay, and performance task responses. Copies of students' "imaged" work can be obtained from the school.


What if I don’t pass?

Students who do not pass ISTEP+ are entitled to help and extra instructional time to overcome any areas of weakness.


What can parents do to help students prepare for ISTEP+?

Stay connected. Cramming for a test rarely results in the type of learning that will stay with your child throughout his or her life. The best preparation is to provide consistent support to your child throughout his or her education.

Know what’s expected. Read Indiana’s Academic Standards so you know what your child should know and be able to do, reinforce these expectations at home, and stay connected to your child’s academic performance throughout the year.

Check grades. Your son or daughter may say things are "fine" at school but don’t stop checking report cards, progress reports, or, if available, your child’s online grades or class progress.

Talk to the teacher. Teachers know how hard children are working, how well they are behaving, the quality of their homework and what areas need improvement. Collect e-mail addresses or phone numbers of all your child’s teachers and check in periodically.

Don’t buckle on homework. If your child is not studying at home, ask why, and double-check with teachers. It’s tough to hold the line, but making sure your child does his or her homework is important for academic success.

Ask for help. Students who are struggling in a particular class may need extra help after school or with a tutor. Find out from your school where you can go for help and make sure your student gets the help he or she needs. Catching a problem area now can make a big difference.

Go to parent meetings. Most schools offer parent nights or teacher/parent sessions that provide great information. Check your school’s calendar at the beginning of the year and plan to attend.

Get involved. Nothing will have a bigger impact on your student’s success than your involvement in his or her education.


What can parents do to support students during testing?

Make sure your child has plenty of sleep the night before.

Provide a nutritious breakfast.

Encourage your child to do his or her very best, but don’t place too much emphasis on the test.


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