Cut Scores and Scale Score Ranges

Student performance on WESTEST 2 is based on scale scores. The student’s performance level (Distinguished, Above Mastery, Mastery, Partial Mastery and Novice) is determined by examining where their scale score falls on the approved scale score ranges. 

West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) sent a letter to each county superintendent requesting recommendations of content specialist in grades 3 – 11.  The recommendations were sent to WVDE for consideration for membership on the standards setting committee for WESTEST 2.  Additionally, the West Virginia Advisory committee, which consist of County Test Coordinators and Superintendents, were invited to participate in the standards setting along with parents, business, community leaders and representatives of Higher Education.  Over 150 participants were selected and meet in Morgantown West Virginia during February 2009 to make recommendations to the West Virginia Board of Education (WVBE) for grade level cut scores in grades 3 – 11 in the areas of Reading/Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies.    

The WESTEST 2 cut score ranges are determined by a well established and highly respected bookmarking process. (West Virginia 2009 Standards Setting Technical Manual) West Virginia has a vertical scale in grades 3 – 8 in which a cut score is was determined for each performance level, per grade, per content area that represents strong balance and articulation across grades 3 – 8.

These cut scores were then reviewed by national experts in the areas of assessment, reporting and accountability to include the West Virginia National Technical Assistance Committee. The Cut Scores were presented to the West Virginia Board of Education for final approval in May of 2009.

 

2009 WESTEST 2 Cut Scores