Assessments

Scholars in Grades 3 through 6 participate in a variety of New York State (NYS) assessments throughout the academic year. These assessments evaluate knowledge and skills aligned with the New York State Learning Standards.

English Language Arts (ELA) – Grades 3–6

This assessment evaluates scholars’ reading comprehension, writing, and analytical thinking skills. Scholars read a variety of texts and respond to multiple-choice and constructed-response questions, demonstrating their understanding, inference, and text-based writing abilities.

Mathematics – Grades 3–6

The Math assessment measures scholars’ understanding of mathematical concepts, procedures, and problem-solving strategies. It includes both multiple-choice and open-ended questions covering operations, fractions, geometry, data analysis, and algebraic thinking appropriate to grade level.

Science – Grade 5

The Grade 5 Science exam includes two parts:

• Written Test: Covers core science content areas such as physical science, life science, earth science, and engineering design.

• Performance Test: Scholars complete hands-on investigations and demonstrate skills in observation, data collection, and scientific reasoning.

At Rhodes Academy, we celebrate the linguistic and cultural diversity of our scholars. New York State requires specialized assessments to measure English language proficiency for scholars identified as English Language Learners (ELLs).

NYSITELL (New York State Identification Test for English Language Learners)

Given to newly enrolled students whose home language is not English, this initial screening determines whether a scholar qualifies for ELL support. It assesses listening, speaking, reading, and writing to identify language proficiency at entry.

NYSESLAT (New York State English as a Second Language Achievement Test)

Administered annually to ELLs in Grades K–12, the NYSESLAT assesses progress in the four language domains: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing. The results help determine continued eligibility for ELL services and guide language instruction.

The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) is uniquely designed to prepare scholars for assessments by focusing on deeper learning, critical thinking, and real-world application.

Our PYP framework includes:

• Inquiry-Based Learning: Encourages curiosity, questioning, and exploration—skills essential for interpreting complex texts, solving problems, and thinking critically during assessments.

• Transdisciplinary Units of Inquiry: Connect concepts across subjects, helping scholars make meaningful connections and better understand the context behind what they’re learning and being tested on.

• Learner Profile Attributes: Support the development of reflective, principled, and resilient scholars who approach assessments with confidence and integrity.

• Approaches to Learning (ATL): These skills—such as communication, self-management, research, and thinking—are explicitly taught and practiced across all content areas.

At Rhodes Academy, assessments are not one-time events—they are part of a comprehensive, balanced approach to teaching and learning. We use multiple forms of assessment to monitor progress, guide instruction, and ensure that each scholar receives the support and challenge needed to reach their fullest potential.

We are proud of our scholars' growth and grateful for the partnership of families as we work together to prepare our young learners to be lifelong inquirers and global citizens.