Again, this spring, some students across New York State will take the New York State Grades 3-8 ELA and Mathematics Tests and/or Field Tests on a computer for the first time. Educators, students, and parents need tools to help students get comfortable taking a test on computer.
A New York State Question Sampler is available for educators, students, and parents to preview computer-based testing for answering test questions and using online testing tools. Additionally, test accommodation features, such as Text-to-Speech, Reverse Contrast, and more are available in the online Question Sampler.
The Question Sampler, provided by Questar Assessment Inc., is accessible from any computer and provides computer-based sample questions in ELA and math for every grade 3-8. Teachers can use the Sampler in class, and students and parents can try it out at home.
The Question Sampler allows users to preview test questions in a platform that closely resembles the secure browser test platform that students will use for the actual test. The Sampler gives users the opportunity to practice using the built-in features like the highlighter, notepad, and answer eliminator, all of which will be available to students taking the computer-based test.
The Question Sampler includes previously released New York State test questions and shows the types of questions students will encounter on the operational CBT and computer-based field tests this spring. The Question Sampler does not represent the full length of the actual test.
Use the Google Chrome browser for the best experience with the Question Sampler. Chrome most resembles the Nextera secure browser used by Questar to administer the real test.
Additional Links
- Nextera Setup and Installation Guide (Updated for the 2017-18 school year)
- Questar System Requirements (Desktop/Laptop and Mobile/Tablet)
- Device System Scan Tool — Determine if testing devices meet system requirements
- Testing Readiness Check Tool — Determine if your classrooms and schools have the right resources to test online
Computer-Based Testing Support
For more information or help with implementing Computer-Based Testing, visit CBTSupport.nysed.gov or email CBTSupport@nysed.gov.
**Information from the New York State Education Department**