Keystone Test Evaluation Structure 4

Question 1

What are the main pathways available to Pennsylvania students who do not score Proficient on a Keystone Exam?

Accepted Answer

Retake the exam, complete a Project-Based Assessment, or meet a combined score requirement

Answer

Students who do not score Proficient may retake the exam, pursue a Project-Based Assessment, or satisfy a combined score pathway.

Question 2

What is a Project-Based Assessment (PBA) in the context of Pennsylvania Keystone Exams?

Accepted Answer

An extended academic project that can demonstrate proficiency as an alternative to the exam score

Answer

A PBA is an extended academic project that serves as an alternative pathway for students who do not achieve Proficient on the Keystone Exam.

Question 3

For Pennsylvania high school graduation, how many Keystone Exam subjects must a student demonstrate proficiency in?

Accepted Answer

All three (Algebra I, Biology, and Literature)

Answer

Students must demonstrate proficiency in all three Keystone subjects—Algebra I, Biology, and Literature—to satisfy graduation requirements.

Question 4

In which grade do most Pennsylvania students first take the Algebra I Keystone Exam?

Accepted Answer

9th grade

Answer

Most students take the Algebra I Keystone Exam upon completing the Algebra I course, typically in 9th grade.

Question 5

Can a Pennsylvania student graduate without achieving a Proficient score on a Keystone Exam?

Accepted Answer

Yes, through alternative pathways such as a PBA or combined score threshold

Answer

Alternative pathways including PBAs and combined score options allow students to meet the graduation standard without a Proficient exam score.

Keystone Test Practice Test