Preparing students for the Smarter Balanced assessment is easier when they can practice in an environment that closely resembles the real test. Two online resources—Smarter Balanced Sample Items and Practice and Training Tests—help students become familiar with the testing format, tools, and expectations before test day.
Smarter Balanced Sample Items
The Smarter Balanced Sample Items site allows students to practice using single, random questions from the test bank. One of the biggest advantages of this resource is that it looks and functions like the actual test interface (excluding testing accommodations). Because of this, students can get a realistic sense of how questions appear and how to interact with the platform.
This resource is also very convenient: no sign-in is required, so students and teachers can access it quickly. Students can pull new questions each time they visit, making it a great option for short practice sessions or independent review.
Access the Sample Items here:
https://sampleitems.smarterbalanced.org/
Practice and Training Tests
The Practice and Training Tests platform is ideal for whole-group instruction. Teachers can use it to demonstrate how the testing system works, including:
Navigating between questions
Entering answers
Accessing and using the built-in tools
In these practice tests, all students see the same questions in the same order, which makes it easier for teachers to guide students step by step. Each time the test is opened, it starts again at question #1, allowing teachers to repeat demonstrations or review sections as needed.
When starting a practice test, users will select the grade level and subject area, ensuring that the questions match the appropriate content for their students.
Access the Practice and Training Tests here:
https://www.caaspp-elpac.org/resources/preparation/practice-and-training-tests
Why These Tools Matter
Both resources help students become comfortable with the look and feel of the actual Smarter Balanced test. By practicing ahead of time, students learn what to expect, how to navigate the system, and how to answer different types of questions. This familiarity can reduce anxiety and allow students to focus more on demonstrating what they know.
Grades 3–5 Testing Practice Resources
For students in grades 3–5, the following resources are available to support testing preparation:
Practice and Training Tests:
https://www.caaspp-elpac.org/resources/preparation/practice-and-training-testsSmarter Balanced Sample Items:
https://sampleitems.smarterbalanced.org/
Additional Math Support: Touch Math Resources
Teachers can also support students with Touch Math practice materials. These slides and resources provide additional strategies and visual supports to help students strengthen their math skills.
Touch Math Slides and Resources:
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1GYVnm5RwlP826Sl4S9VeBAKZRPTwrFza/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=114435383113526756589&rtpof=true&sd=true