The Ohio Fourth Grade
Proficiency Test for Math
The math Proficiency Test contains multiple choice, short answer and extended response items. The short answer questions, which make up about 30% of the test, may include calculating, measuring, drawing a shape or completing a table. The extended response items ask students to explain their problem solving methods. The topics on the test may include:
- classifying objects and shapes
- using patterns
- determining a rule and identifying missing numbers
- solving work problems with graphs and number sentences
- explaining whether an answer is correct
- identifying and adding fractions
- adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing whole numbers
- comparing and ordering whole numbers and fractions
- adding and subtracting decimals
- applying geometry concepts of congruence, symmetry, parallelism, intersecting lines, perpendicular lines, and right angles
- understanding keying sequences on a calculator
- measuring to centimeters and to fractional parts of an inch
- counting sets of coins and dollar bills
- choosing the appropriate unit to measure lengths, volumes, and weights in standard and metric units
- determining elapsed time
- determining perimeter
- using front end estimation (64 + 89 would be 60 + 80)
- rounding numbers to estimate answers
- reading tables, picture graphs and bar graphs
- determining probability
Students may receive partial credit on short answer and extended response items. There also may be more that one correct response. Scoring on short answer and extended response answers will not be affected by grammar, spelling, and mechanics, unless the answer is not clear to the evaluator.
The Everyday Math Program our school system has recently adopted offers many opportunities for application of new concepts. Because the program is designed on a "spiral system", skills are reviewed frequently. In Everyday Math, students are encouraged to find different ways to solve a problem and are given frequent practice in sharing explanations of how and why they chose to solve the problem in the way they did. Teachers in the district supplement the Everyday Math Program to make sure all Proficiency Test skills are taught and practiced.
- Help your child to learn basic math facts. Constant review, even over the summer, will help your child calculate more quickly and more accurately.
- When your child is working on problems, have him underline key words in the directions and cross off any unnecessary information. Students are permitted to make marks in the test booklet, as long as the marks do not interfere with the answer.
- Encourage your child to keep working at a problem and not give up on the first try. The trial-and-error method, required on some problems, takes stamina and motivation. Avoid helping your child too often.
- Try to work math problem solving into everyday situations. Have your child calculate the tip at a restaurant. Have your child help you measure and cook. When traveling, have your child figure distance using a map and gasoline costs per mile.