A new state test that measures how well students understand course work, shows eighth-graders need help in math. A new state test that measures how well pupils understand coursework shows local eighth-graders need help in math. Click on the graphic for a larger version. The graphic shows how area students' test scores compare to the state average. Richmond and Columbia County school officials released scores this week on the Criterion-Reference Competency Test.
Officials say the test is a better indicator than other tests of how pupils are performing.
It differs from the Iowa Test of Basic Skills in that it measures Georgia pupils based specifically on the curriculum they have been taught throughout the year. A norm-reference test scores pupils on instructional standards taught throughout the United States. It is designed to highlight differences among pupils across an achievement continuum, officials said. In addition to eighth-grade math, Richmond County officials also would like to see scores improve in fourth and sixth grades. Richmond County's best score was in eighth-grade reading, where 73 percent of pupils met or exceeded standards.