Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of students and parents.

1. What does MCAS stand for?
2. Why do I have to take it?
3. How long is the writing part?
4. When is the writing part of the test?
5. What about the math and reading parts?
6. Who scores my test?
7. When do I get my results?
8. Can I see the questions before the test?
9. Can I ask questions or get help during the test?
10. Why should I do my best?
11. What happens if I�m absent?
12. Can I chew gum during the MCAS?
13. Where can I go on the Internet for more information?

What does MCAS stand for?

Monkeys Clamoring Against Silliness...
Actually, it�s the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System

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Why do I have to take it?

All fourth graders in Massachusetts public schools take the test.  It is designed to improve instruction 
and learning for students and teachers.

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How long is the writing part?

You have several hours to complete this part, but it is not timed.  No one in my class has ever run out 
of time on 
the writing part.  No one.  Ever.

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When is the writing part of the test?

TBA
This is a one-day test.

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What about the math and reading parts?

TBA
Reading is three sessions, math is two.

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Who scores my test?

Trained hamsters, oops, no, um, trained teachers score your test.

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When do I get my results?

In the fall of your fifth grade year, usually October.  They are mailed to your home, unless you live 
underwater or underground, in which case you need to make special arrangements.

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Can I see the questions before the test?

Well...no.   No one knows what they are until the booklets arrive at school.  You may not know the 
questions until you begin the test.

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Can I ask questions or get help during the test?

No.  Not even if you don�t understand a word or the question.  Teachers are not allowed to help at all 
unless you work at the Learning Center in certain cases.  Some students do the MCAS at the 
Learning Center and they will be told who they are.  If you are not told, then you will not work at the 
Learning Center.

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Why should I do my best?

Your score reflects on you as a student, on this class, and on Wellesley.  And doing your best is just the 
right thing to do-it's one of our CARE values, Efforts Towards Excellence.

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What happens if I�m absent?

You are placed in the dungeon for a week with a two-day supply of bread and water.    
Actually, there is a make up date, but you are given different questions to answer than your classmates 
had.

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Can I chew gum during the MCAS?

Yes, during the testing you may chew gum in 4K.  You may also have some hard candy instead.
If it becomes distracting, you will be asked to put it away for the rest of the day.

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Where can I go on the Internet for more information?

http://www.doe.mass.edu/mcas/

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