Using Data to Better Understand the NYS Social Studies Regents Examinations

In order to better understand the complexity and make-up of the NYS Social Studies Regents exams, and student performance, social studies teachers at Pioneer came together to analyze the exam and compile data surrounding the content and skills the exam was measuring.

The information collected was combined and shared so that teachers would have a record of what content was being asked from the NYS Social Studies Framework, and the way in which the questions were being posed to students. Teachers also examined the types of sources used within the assessment that students would be working with when responding.

​At the completion of this work teachers had a better understanding of the exam construct and structure and were able to look at their student results to develop ways in which to better assist and prepare students for both local and Regents assessments in Social Studies.

By: Rob Griffith, Coordinator for Curriculum and Professional Development