6 Standard Setting

The initial standard-setting process for the Dynamic Learning Maps^® (DLM^®) Alternate System in science derived cut points for then-tested grades 4, 5, 6, 8, and high school, to describe student achievement relative to four performance levels. For a description of the process, including the development of policy performance level descriptors, the three-day standard-setting meeting, evaluation of impact data and cut points, and development of grade specific performance level descriptors, see Chapter 6 of the 2015–2016 Technical Manual—Science (Dynamic Learning Maps Consortium, 2017).

After a new state that assessed students in science in all grades joined the consortium, additional cut points were derived for grades 3 and 7. For a description of the procedures and results of establishing grade 3 and 7 cut points, see Chapter 6 of the 2018–2019 Technical Manual Update—Science (Dynamic Learning Maps Consortium, 2019a).