End-of-Course Testing Begins January 3
The South Carolina Board of Education states that when students complete one of the “gateway” or “benchmark” courses for high school credit they must take the End-of-Course Examination Program (EOCEP) test.
The EOCEP tests will be administered beginning January 3, 2017, for students who attend schools that are offering Carnegie Units at the end of the first semester (block high schools). Identified students who are enrolled in Algebra 1, English 1, United States History and the Constitution, and Biology 1 will participate in testing. Each school selects specific test dates beginning on January 3, 2017.
The EOCEP tests will be administered online. These tests mostly consist of multiple-choice items but may include some technology-enhanced and scenario-based items. While the tests are untimed, each session must be completed during a single day. Most students complete the test within 2 1/2 hours. The paper testing format and multiple day testing is available only for students with disabilities whose IEP or 504 Accommodation Plan specifies these accommodations.
Testing Tips
Parents can be a great help to their child by following these suggestions.
Students should:
- Rest on the nights before these tests.
- Eat a nourishing breakfast on the morning of each test.
- Be in school and on time, except in cases of illness.
- Listen attentively to the teacher’s directions so he/she will know exactly what to do.
- Read each test question and each response carefully before marking an answer choice.
- Stay calm, if there are questions that seem difficult.
- Select his/her best answer.
- Refrain from bringing any electronic device that can be used for communicating, timing, or imaging into the testing location.
Parents should:
- Meet with your child’s teachers as often as necessary to discuss his/her progress.
- Check or review your child’s homework, projects, or other school work.
- Ask teachers to suggest activities for you and your child to do at home to help prepare for tests and to improve your child’s understanding of schoolwork.
- Talk with your child about school.
- Provide positive feedback by praising your child for what he/she does well.