Which scenario would typically require an alternate assessment rather than a standard assessment?

Which scenario would typically require an alternate assessment rather than a standard assessment?

• A. A student who excels academically
• B. A student who is new to the school
• C. A student with significant cognitive impairments
• D. A student who has frequent absences

Answer: (C)

Alternate assessments are used when a student cannot participate meaningfully in standard tests due to significant cognitive disabilities. In this situation, the student would be assessed against alternate achievement standards that focus on essential, functional skills and are designed to be accessible given the student’s abilities. Among the scenarios, a student with significant cognitive impairments would typically need this type of assessment rather than a standard one. Being new to the school, having frequent absences, or excelling academically can usually still participate in standard assessments with appropriate accommodations or supports.

Alternate assessments are used when a student cannot participate meaningfully in standard tests due to significant cognitive disabilities. In this situation, the student would be assessed against alternate achievement standards that focus on essential, functional skills and are designed to be accessible given the student’s abilities. Among the scenarios, a student with significant cognitive impairments would typically need this type of assessment rather than a standard one. Being new to the school, having frequent absences, or excelling academically can usually still participate in standard assessments with appropriate accommodations or supports.