New
The FCAT specifications and sample test items for mathematics, reading and science (draft) are now available on this website.
Where?
The test item specifications and sample test items are included on the corresponding benchmark page (as shown in figure 1 below). Please note that not all the benchmarks have test item specifications. Click here for an example benchmark page with test item specifications.
Figure 1: Screen shot of the test item specification tabs from a benchmark page
Limitations on Use
The availability of FCAT Test Item Specifications does not extend to and specifically excludes any use for commercial purposes. All reproductions of these publications, or parts of these publications, must include the Florida Department of Education's copyright statement found on page two (or the inside front cover) of each of the documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Reading and Mathematics FCAT Test Item Specifications (PDF, 29KB)
Reading Specifications 2009
Note: FCAT Reading tests will field test items written to the new Specifications (released in 2009) in 2010, and use these items for the FCAT Operational administration in 2011.
Mathematics Specifications 2009
Note: FCAT Mathematics tests will field test items written to the new Specifications (released in 2009) in 2010, and use these items for the FCAT Operational administration in 2011. In the interim, high school reference sheets and examples of mathematics grids for high school and end-of-course assessments can be found in Appendix H and Appendix I, respectively, of the draft FCAT Test Item Specifications for elementary and middle grades.
Science Specifications
Note: At the time of publication, the final determination of reporting categories and their weights had not yet been made; therefore, the documents are marked as drafts. When this final determination is made, supplemental material will be posted to the Department's website and school districts will be notified.