In 2003, Texas implemented a new test, the Texas Assessment of Knowledge
and Skills (TAKS), in grades 3 through 11, to replace the Texas Assessment
of Academic Skills (TAAS). The TAKS is believed to be more rigorous as
well as better aligned with the state standards. The TAKS tests whether
students in grades 3 through 11 have mastered the state's learning standards
in reading, writing, math, social science and science.
There are currently two passing standards for the test: Met Standard
(passing) and Commended Performance (high performance). Since TAKS
is a new, more rigorous test, the state is phasing in tougher passing
standards for "Met Standard" over a three-year period. This means that
in the first year, students will need to correctly answer three to
six fewer questions (depending on the subject being tested) in order
to pass than when the test is fully implemented in 2005.
