Assuring Success on the NJGPA for Math

This professional learning workshop is designed to help high school math teachers understand and implement strategies that prepare students for success on the New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment (NJGPA). The session provides a detailed overview of the NJGPA structure, including the standards assessed, testing blueprints, task types, and performance levels. Participants explore the distinctions between Type I, II, and III math tasks, review released items, and engage in instructional planning that connects assessment expectations to daily classroom practice. The workshop also highlights tools, techniques, and resources available to support student readiness and confidence during the testing process.

• Teachers’ limited familiarity with the NJGPA math format, blueprints, and scoring criteria
  
  
• Gaps in aligning classroom instruction and formative assessment with state test expectations
  
  
• Need for effective strategies to build students’ problem-solving, reasoning, and modeling skills required by the NJGPA

1. Assessment Literacy and Alignment:
   Participants will gain a deep understanding of NJGPA math structure, including subclaims, item types, and performance levels, allowing them to align instruction and assessment to the state standards.
   
   
2. Instructional Strategies for Success:
   Teachers will learn evidence-based methods—such as modeling, “Do Nows,” answer analysis, and student work evaluations—to strengthen conceptual understanding and reasoning. These strategies emphasize integrating NJGPA-style questions into regular instruction to improve familiarity and mastery.
   
   
3. Using Tools and Resources Effectively:
   Participants will explore digital and print resources like the NJDOE Digital Item Library, New Meridian Resource Center, and online practice platforms. They will learn how to incorporate these tools into lessons to enhance student engagement and test readiness.