Math is still confusing....

[patsmor]

OK, I got my (California Basic Education Skills Test) CBEST scores today. The email says:

Reading Section: Scaled Score 52
Math Section: Scaled Score 51

(Note: We won't get the Writing Scores until Sept 6.)Note that each section score is reported on a scale ranging from 20 to 80. For the Reading and Mathematics sections, your score is based on

Comments

Maybe I don't feel so bad...

[patsmor]

Analysis of the CBEST from the Technology explanation on the National Evaluation Systems (NES) enrollment form I received (~8 pt type ;-) I didn't read the back, as it was printed in medium grey on grey-blue paper and I didn't see it until I was filing stuff tonight...).DUH.
CBEST today is a 100 item multiple-choice test, 50 each in reading comprehension items and basic math. There is also a writing test with a set of protocols for assigning numerical grades. (Only 80 of the 100 multiple-choice items, however, are used for calculating reading and math scores. The remaining 20 items are used for constructing future versions of CBEST.)

I've been looking for some numbers on average CBEST scores across the state. Found these examples:

One of the UC's that spits out the teachers almost universally rated as being some of the best in the country has this as their goals for CBEST improvements 2000-2004:

Performance Indicators for 2003-04
There will be a 8% increase in the average CBEST scores.

CBEST Scores Goals:
By yearReadingMath Writing 2000-01 374036 2001-02 37 3837 2002-0338 4038 2003-04394036

Quote from America the Dumb (Dr. Marty Nemko, http://www.martynemko.com/pub/articles/dumibing.shtm)
To teach in California, one must hold a bachelor’s degree and pass the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST). That test requires no more than eighth grade reading, writing, and math. One-third of bachelor’s degree holders who aspire to a career in teaching fail the CBEST.

Academic requirements for applying for the teaching program in California State Colleges: Grade average of 2.87 or better. (4=A,3=B,2=C)

(Side note: Duncan was pleased to see, on my official college transcript, that I made a D+ on one class. Go team :D )