The Smarter Balanced Interim Assessments are high-quality assessments that are aligned to Michigan’s learning standards. Teachers can choose from the following assessments:
- Interim Comprehensive Assessments (ICAs)—measures similar content as the M-STEP
- Interim Assessment Blocks (IABs)—can be used throughout the year to assess smaller bundles of content
- Focused Interim Assessment Blocks (Focused IABs)—can be used throughout the year to assess up to three assessment targets to gain a detailed understanding of student learning
Learn more about the different types of assessments on our Resources page.
Key Features of the Smarter Balanced Interim Assessments
New! Easier and Faster Administration: The Interim Comprehensive Assessments (ICAs) no longer require Educator Scoring. The ICAs also have reduced testing time based on educator/administrator feedback.
Alignment to M-STEP: All test questions are in the same format and style as Michigan’s summative assessments, and the interim assessments are predictive of student performance on the M-STEP. Learn more about alignment to the M-STEP here.
Familiar Technology: The interim assessments are delivered on an easy-to-use technology platform that Michigan educators already use and know—it is the same online learning platform used for the M-STEP, MI-Access, and WIDA assessments. This minimizes test coordinator and educator time spent on test setup and administration. The interim assessments are also fully integrated with the Michigan Data Hub.
Supports for Teachers: Score reports are intuitive and user friendly, with fast results and the ability to track student progress over time. Assessment results are also linked to the Tools for Teachers digital platform, a rich resource created by teachers with instructional resources, activities, and lessons that can be used to improve student learning.
