Subject
Science
Grade levels
5, 8, 11
About the test
The Dynamic Learning Maps® (DLM®) assessment is designed for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities for whom the general education science assessment (MISA) is not appropriate, even with accommodations. The DLM-Science alternate assessment is based on alternate achievement standards which have been derived from and are aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Students who take the DLM-Science alternate assessment are instructed and assessed on Essential Elements (EEs). EEs are grade-level- specific expectations about what students with the most significant cognitive disabilities should know and be able to do. Each science EE has three linkage levels which specify where a student is in relationship to the grade level target. The target linkage level is the highest, while the other two linkage levels (initial and precursor) are lower in complexity, depth, and breadth. The DLM-Science alternate assessment is an online, stage adaptive, assessment comprised of 9 “testlets” for each grade level assessed. Each testlet is completed in one setting and consists of an engagement activity and three to five test items. Each testlets covers one EE. Each engagement activity is designed to motivate students, provide a context, and activate prior knowledge. All test items are in a
multiple choice format.
Standards being assessed
Essential Elements
Accommodations information
Accessibility Manual
Assessment results
To see how students performed on the DLM go to
MdReportCard.org.
Practice and Released Testlets
Guide to Practice Activities & Released Testlets Science