Frequently Asked Questions  (FAQ)

About Science Frameworks, GLE’s (grade level expectations) or GSE’s(grade span expectations), and Science Assessment in New Hampshire

 

Q. Are the new Science GSE’s (or GLE’s) Done?
A. Yes, the NH Science Frameworks are done! The new frameworks contain science content that has been divided into the following GRADE SPANS: K-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-11 (basic literacy level) 11-12 (advanced level). So technically I guess you could say we will have science GSE’s but they will be part of the revised “NH Science Framework.”

Q. What is happening about the State Science Assessment?
A. NH has joined with Rhode Island and Vermont to develop the Tri-State Science Assessment to meet the NCLB requirements for science.  It is expected that we will give the same assessment in all three states. A pilot test is scheduled for SPRING 2007 and the first operational test SPRING of 2008.

Q. Will Science Count towards AYP
A. I am not sure.   At this time the trend is to say “No”, but things can change both here and at the federal level.

Q. What content will the Tri-State Science Assessment cover?
A. The Tri-state assessment, unlike the old NHEIAP science assessment, will only be developed from specific areas and proficiencies of the new frameworks.  The three states have agreed upon “Assessment Targets” that include content and ideas that are developmentally appropriate for specific grade levels and “fair game” for the assessment.  In the frameworks, the proficiencies in boxes are the ones that can be assessed on the state-wide assessment.  The other proficiencies should be part of your local assessment system.

 

Jan McLaughlin, Science Education Consultant, NH Department of Education
E-mail: jmclaughlin@ed.state.nh.us

 

Last updated: February 15, 2007