Student progress is measured relative to the Standards, not to other students. ISAT is a cumulative reflection of a student's progress in meeting the Standards. Though the test is given at specific times in a student's educational career, it is not grade-specific. For example, the ISAT given in third grade assesses all of what students should have learned up to that point, not just what the child has learned so far in third grade specifically.
ISAT results identify areas of strength and weakness for schools and students.
This information assists educators and parents in helping students make progress toward the Standards. Teachers and administrators use the results to decide on the most appropriate curriculum changes, teaching strategies, and professional development to help improve student performance. . Illinois has raised the bar for student scores which means scores will likely be lower for the first several years. The tests are also more rigorous than past performance measures. The State Board measures individual, school, and state performance based on the Illinois Learning Standards.