Looks like the maximum scaled score on the STAR reading is 1400. The sem for third and fourth graders is around 45. Yes, the max grade level is spring of 12th grade.
Both STAR reading and math administer only about 24 or 25 items (plus some non-scored trial items) in the actual assessment. As it is a computer-adaptive test, if you get two items wrong in a row at the beginning, it is quite possible that it will then only give you easier items. Of course, if you had an unlimited number of items, you could work your way back up, but you may run out of items before you make it to your true ceiling. (If you are familiar with IXL, and its adaptive testing system, you will have seen the same thing happen there, where an early error prevents you from reaching the harder items.)
If your school uses STAR for formative assessment, they may be testing as frequently as monthly (or even weekly). I expect she will be re-placed at that point. If not, request a re-test, based on the significant drop over last spring--after all, if this were a legit drop in reading, it would suggest some kind of trauma or brain injury, which would be grounds for special ed evaluation.
EDIT: Oh, and you can have them start the test off at a different grade level, to maximize the chances of finding the true ZPD.
Last edited by aeh; 08/23/14 09:46 AM.
