Indiana Statewide Testing for Educational Progress-Plus
About ISTEP+
In Indiana, all students in grades 3 through 10 take the Indiana Statewide Testing for Educational Progress-Plus (ISTEP+). Based on Indiana’s Academic Standards, the test includes English/language arts at each grade, as well as science at grades 5 and 7.
Solid reading, writing and math skills are "must haves" for a successful future. ISTEP+ is designed to make sure you master these basics on your way to earning a high school diploma. If you don’t know enough to pass the test, that’s a sign that you need some extra help.
To be sure you’re ready to do your best on ISTEP+, read these tips and practice some sample questions.
ISTEP+ testing dates
School Year ISTEP GQE Dates GQE Retest Dates
2007-2008 Sept. 17-28 Sept. 18-20 March 11-13
2008-2009 Sept. 15-26 Sept. 16-18 March 10-12
Getting ready for ISTEP+
Be prepared. Cramming for any test is never the best way to prepare. Keep up with your homework and ask your teachers for help when you need it.
Review. In the weeks before your test, take it seriously when your teachers review important information.
Get plenty of sleep. Go to bed a little earlier so you get a good night’s sleep. Being well rested will give you an extra boost of energy for test day.
Have a good breakfast. Eat protein (eggs, meat, cheese, etc.), which will help you perform better than a sugary donut. Too much food can make you feel sleepy, so don’t overdo it.
Take a break. Get some exercise during your breaks or after school to keep your energy up.
Ask for help. If you’ve had trouble with ISTEP+ in the past, ask a teacher, counselor or parent about extra help now.
Double-check your work on the test. You’ll catch mistakes if you take time to proofread your answers carefully.
ISTEP+ sample test questions
Brief sample questions in PDF format:
Other sample questions
The Indiana Department of Education provides sample questions and copies of previous tests. The information is available on the publications section of the ISTEP+ Web site.
Common questions about ISTEP+
What’s on the ISTEP+?
Based on Indiana’s Academic Standards, ISTEP+ covers:
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English/language arts at grades 3-10
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Mathematics in grades 3-10
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Science in grades 5 and 7
When is ISTEP+?
ISTEP+ is given during the fall of each school year in Grades 3 through 10.
ISTEP+ testing window for the 2007-08 school year is September 17 through September 28. Check with your school for local test dates.
The Grade 10 ISTEP+ Graduation Qualifying Exam (GQE) will be administered to members of the Class of 2010 on September 18, 19, and 20 this year.
How long does ISTEP+ take?
The test takes between 4.5 to 6.5 hours depending on the grade level.
Generally, the test is administered over three mornings.
What results should I expect to receive?
Every student tested receives a comprehensive individual Student Report showing a designation of Pass+, Pass or Did Not Pass.
Families of students in all tested grade levels are entitled to see a copy of the student’s short answer, essay, and performance task responses. Copies of students' "imaged" work can be obtained from the school.
What if I don’t pass?
Students who do not pass ISTEP+ are entitled to help and extra instructional time to address any areas of weakness.
Ask your teacher and guidance counselors about extra help in areas that you didn't pass.
What if I have special needs?
Several testing accommodations are available for students with disabilities or limited English proficiency, such as additional time and changes in test scheduling, format and setting.
Talk to your parents and guidance counselors about the specific accommodations in your Individualized Education Program (IEP), Section 504 Plan or Individual Learning Program (ILP).
What can parents do to help students prepare for ISTEP+?
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Stay connected. Cramming for a test rarely results in the type of learning that will stay with your child throughout his or her life. The best preparation is to provide consistent support to your child throughout his or her education.
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Know what’s expected. Read
Indiana’s Academic Standards so you know what your child should know and be able to do, reinforce these expectations at home, and stay connected to your child’s academic performance throughout the year.
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Check grades. Your son or daughter may say things are "fine" at school but don’t stop checking report cards, progress reports, or, if available, your child’s online grades or class progress.
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Talk to the teacher. Teachers know how hard children are working, how well they are behaving, the quality of their homework and what areas need improvement. Collect e-mail addresses or phone numbers of all your child’s teachers and check in periodically.
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Don’t buckle on homework. If your child is not studying at home, ask why, and double-check with teachers. It’s tough to hold the line, but making sure your child does his or her homework is important for academic success.
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Ask for help. Students who are struggling in a particular class may need extra help after school or with a tutor. Find out from your school where you can go for help and make sure your student gets the help he or she needs. Catching a problem area now can make a big difference.
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Go to parent meetings. Most schools offer parent nights or teacher/parent sessions that provide great information. Check your school’s calendar at the beginning of the year and plan to attend.
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Get involved. Nothing will have a bigger impact on your student’s success than your involvement in his or her education.
What can parents do to support students during testing?
Make sure your child has plenty of sleep the night before.
Provide a nutritious breakfast.
Encourage your child to do his or her very best, but don’t place too much emphasis on the test.
More information
For more information on ISTEP+, talk to your teachers, counselors or: