Friday, May 16, 2003

Writing test scores continue to rise

Fulton County eighth graders prove they have the write stuff when it comes to the state Middle Grades Writing Assessment.

Results from the 2003 test administration show 95 percent of Fulton test-takers on or exceeding targets set by the state.

Fulton increased its mean scaled score three points over 2002, up to 364. More significantly, the system registered a 10 percent increase ­ from 21 to 31 ­ in the percent of students scoring in the Exceeds Targets range.

Scaled scores on the assessment range from 300 to 400, with scores classified within three categories set by the state ­ Not on Target, On Target, and Exceeds Target. Scores between 349 and 367 are identified as "On Target," which means that student papers are focused, have a clear beginning, middle and end, and that the writer's intent can be determined. Sixty-four percent of Fulton County's students scored within this area.

A score of 368 or higher is identified as "Exceeds Target." These student papers are focused and effectively organized with relevant supporting ideas that demonstrate logical connections.

Almost a third, or 31 percent, of Fulton students scored in this high range, much higher than the statewide percentile of 19, and 24 percent for the metro area.

Scores ranging from 300 to 348 are identified as "Not on Target," which means that the student's work lacks focus and organization.

Fulton County decreased the number of students scoring in this low range by one percent, from 6 percent in 2002 to 5 percent this year.