Administration Manual - End-of-Course Assessments - ACT
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End-of-Course Assessments Administration Manual
Dear Educator:
This manual contains the instructions for coordinating ACT QualityCore®
End-of-Course Assessments. You, as the School Test Coordinator, are the
main ACT contact at your school for the End-of-Course Assessments and
the person who makes arrangements for the test administration. You also
will distribute and collect the test materials at your school. The teacher(s)
will administer the tests according to the ACT QualityCore Teacher
Manual.
As School Test Coordinator for your school, you are responsible for
reading and understanding this manual, which contains the instructions
for receiving, handling, and returning the test materials, and for reading
and understanding the Teacher Manual, which contains the procedures and
verbal instructions for administering the tests. For your reference, a School
Test Coordinator Checklist is included in this manual.
If you or your faculty or staff have any questions about test
administration or the ACT QualityCore program, contact ACT
QualityCore Support toll-free at 866.764.7228. If you have any concerns
about testing irregularities and/or prohibited behaviors, please complete
your ACT QualityCore Testing Irregularity Report and return it to ACT.
In exceptional situations, testing staff may wish to file an anonymous
report about concerns that the ACT QualityCore tests may have been
compromised. If you wish to report such concerns anonymously, you may
do so by reporting it at act.ethicspoint.com or calling 855.382.2645.
© 2015 by ACT, Inc. All rights reserved. ACT QualityCore
®
is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc., in the USA 2Security Agreement
For District and School Officials
1. Read the following statement:
I understand ACT owns these test materials, including this manual, and the test questions and responses
in the online system. By opening this manual, I agree to keep all test materials confidential and only use
the test materials in connection with the administration of the test to authorized examinees. I further
agree that I will not share ACT questions and responses with anyone by any form of communication—
other than with authorized examinees at test time—and understand that violating this agreement may
result in legal penalties.
2. Complete the information below, and sign and date as you would any official document. Fax the form to
831.333.1632.
Your name District name
Position or job title School name (for school users only)
Your e-mail address State office/section (for state users only)
Telephone number Your supervisor’s name
Signature Date
3 Security AgreementContents
Security Agreement ....................................................................................................................... 3
Test Administration Policies ......................................................................................................... 7
General Information ........................................................................................................................ 7
Equal Treatment .............................................................................................................................. 7
Fair Testing Practices ...................................................................................................................... 7
Investigations .................................................................................................................................. 7
Specific ACT QualityCore Policies ................................................................................................ 8
Test Format .............................................................................................................................. 8
Desirable Testing Conditions ................................................................................................... 8
Use No. 2 Pencils for the Entire Test ....................................................................................... 8
Guessing on Multiple-Choice Items ........................................................................................ 8
Examinee Questions about Test Items/Tasks ........................................................................... 8
End-of-Course Assessments.......................................................................................................... 9
Test Materials .................................................................................................................................. 9
General Information ................................................................................................................. 9
Receipt of Test Materials ......................................................................................................... 9
Additional Resources ............................................................................................................. 10
Reviewing Test Materials ...................................................................................................... 10
Storing Test Materials ............................................................................................................ 10
Distributing Materials to Teachers ......................................................................................... 11
Testing Aids, Test Security, and Reporting Irregularities ............................................................. 12
Use of Calculators on the ACT QualityCore End-of-Course Assessment ............................. 12
Permitted Calculators ............................................................................................................. 12
Prohibited Calculators ........................................................................................................... 12
Calculators Permitted with Modification ............................................................................... 13
Unauthorized Testing Aids ..................................................................................................... 13
Prohibited Behaviors by Examinees ...................................................................................... 13
Prohibited Behaviors by Staff ................................................................................................ 14
Reporting Irregularities or Prohibited Behaviors .................................................................. 14
Editing Student Account Information .................................................................................... 15
Contents 5Accommodated Testing ................................................................................................................. 16
General Information ............................................................................................................... 16
Ordering Accommodated Testing Materials .......................................................................... 16
Accommodation Codes .......................................................................................................... 17
Returning Test Materials ............................................................................................................... 17
General Information ............................................................................................................... 17
Gridding a Blank Answer Document ..................................................................................... 18
ACT QualityCore School Headers ........................................................................................ 18
ACT QualityCore Group Headers ......................................................................................... 18
Packaging Answer Documents for Scoring ........................................................................... 20
Packing Boxes for Return Shipping ...................................................................................... 22
Using Authorized Return Service for Standard Testing Materials ........................................ 23
Using Authorized Return Service for Accommodated Testing Materials .............................. 24
ACT QualityCore Testing Irregularity Report ...................................................................... 25
ACT QualityCore Test Booklet Tracking Log .......................................................................... 27
ACT QualityCore School Test Coordinator Checklist ............................................................ 29
ACT Test Security Principles ..................................................................................................... 31
6 ContentsTest Administration Policies
General Information
A secure, uniform administration of the ACT QualityCore End-of-Course Assessment is essential
for successful measurement of examinees’ academic skills. It is critical that the procedures you
employ at your school be identical to those at other schools.
This manual provides detailed directions about:
• Selecting facilities and staff
• Ensuring test security
• Administering tests in a standardized manner
All testing personnel are required to read the materials provided by ACT. You can help create a
fair testing environment by strictly adhering to ACT policies and procedures.
If you have any questions that are not addressed in this manual, contact ACT QualityCore
Support at 866.764.7228.
Equal Treatment
All staff are required to administer and supervise the ACT QualityCore End-of-Course
Assessments in a nondiscriminatory manner and in accordance with all applicable laws, including
the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Fair Testing Practices
ACT endorses the Code of Fair Testing Practices in Education and the Code of Professional
Responsibilities in Educational Measurement, which are guides for the conduct of those involved
in educational testing. ACT is committed to ensuring that each of its testing programs upholds the
guidelines in each Code.
Investigations
All staff are obligated to report suspected or documented irregularities to ACT, cooperate fully
with ACT in subsequent investigations, and respond to ACT’s requests for information in a timely
manner.
Test Administration Policies 7Specific ACT QualityCore Policies
Test Format
The ACT QualityCore End-of-Course Assessments consist of either two multiple-choice
parts or a multiple-choice part and a constructed-response part. When the multiple-choice
and constructed-response parts are used, the multiple-choice part should be administered first,
followed by the constructed-response part. You may select any day or days during your testing
window to administer the tests. You must administer all tests in a given course on the same
day(s) within the testing window. Each section of the End-of-Course Assessments requires
45 minutes of testing time. You may choose to administer the sections of the test in one session
or in two separate sessions.
Most tests will be administered to examinees in the classroom during the regular class period.
However, examinees in a given course may be tested outside the regular class periods if facilities
and schedules permit.
Desirable Testing Conditions
Testing rooms (including classrooms) should offer adequate writing surfaces, ample seating,
good lighting, comfortable temperatures, a quiet atmosphere, and freedom from distraction.
There should be sufficient space for the teacher to walk between desks and monitor all examinees
in the classroom during the test administration.
The writing surface should be large enough to accommodate the test booklet. Examinees should not
be distracted by inadequate writing surfaces. Therefore, lapboards must not be used.
Whenever possible, seat examinees in a block so that all rows (side-to-side) and columns
(front-to-back) have the same number of examinees and seats are aligned both side-to-side and
front-to-back. This arrangement simplifies the distribution, collection, and verification of test
materials and minimizes the opportunity for examinees to observe other examinees’ responses.
All examinees must face the same direction. Every testing room must have a clock that is visible
from every desk.
Use No. 2 Pencils for the Entire Test
Make sure examinees use only No. 2 pencils when completing all information sections and
gridding or writing responses. Responses gridded or written in ink, mechanical pencil, or colored
pencil will not be scored.
Guessing on Multiple-Choice Items
Specific instructions about guessing on multiple-choice items are printed on the outside back
cover of the multiple-choice test booklet. If examinees ask you about guessing, refer them to these
instructions. Do not comment on or add to the printed directions or items in any way.
Examinee Questions about Test Items/Tasks
Do not answer questions regarding individual test items or tasks. All staff in the room during an
administration should respond to questions with “Do the best you can.” You should not assist
examinees with test item responses or alter, or attempt to alter, examinee responses.
If examinees note typographical errors or ambiguities in particular test items or tasks, teachers
should instruct them to do the best they can and then include a description of the question or
comment and the test form number(s) on a copy of the ACT QualityCore Testing Irregularity
Report in this manual.
8 Test Administration PoliciesEnd-of-Course Assessments
Test Materials
General Information
As the School Test Coordinator, you are responsible for maintaining the security and safekeeping
of the test materials and for returning them to ACT at the conclusion of testing. All test booklets,
used and unused, must be returned to ACT.
Receipt of Test Materials
ACT has packed the items listed in table 1 in your materials shipment. Quantities are listed on
the Packing List.
Table 1. Items included in materials shipment, sorted by order of use:
When to Use Quantity Materials
Review materials 1 Packing List
upon receipt and
when packing for 1 per roster Roster Report (1 per roster)
return.
During testing 1 per test ACT QualityCore test booklets or shrink-wrapped
kit with answer document, reference sheet (for
Chemistry, Physics, and any mathematics test),
and periodic table (for Chemistry test)
1 ACT QualityCore Administration Manual
(this manual) with School Header(s)
1 per roster ACT QualityCore Teacher Manual
(one per roster)
Returning materials 1 per roster ACT QualityCore Group Headers
As needed ACT Scoring Services envelope(s) to package
completed answer documents for scoring
As needed Return Used Answer Documents (RUAD) for
shipping all scoring service envelopes to ACT
Scoring Services
As needed Clear packing tape to seal boxes for return
shipment to ACT
1 per box + Return shipping labels (UPS)
1 per RUAD
NOTE: The box(es) in which you received your test materials should be used to return test
materials to ACT. Please see page 17 for instructions on returning test materials to the two
different ACT locations. The Roster Report should be used to match answer documents to their
respective Group Headers when returning materials.
End-of-Course Assessments 9Additional Resources
You will find these resources on the following pages:
• ACT QualityCore Testing Irregularity Report (page 25)
• ACT QualityCore Test Booklet Tracking Log (page 27)
• ACT QualityCore School Test Coordinator Checklist (page 29)
• ACT QualityCore School Header (perforated page in the back of this manual)
Reviewing Test Materials
Upon receipt of the materials, complete the following steps.
1. Open every box in your shipment of test materials, and verify that the contents match those
listed on the enclosed ACT QualityCore Packing List.
2. Examine the test booklets and/or shrink-wrapped kits to make certain that all examinees
are registered and accounted for. See the Gridding a Blank Answer Document section
for instructions on testing examinees who do not have a personalized test booklet or a
preprinted answer document.
3. Count the individual test booklets and/or shrink-wrapped kits and other materials to ensure
that you have received everything listed. The Packing List will indicate a serial number
range for the test booklets and/or kits shipped to you. Please verify that the booklets and/or
kits in your shipment match that range, and contact ACT if there are any discrepancies.
4. Verify that you have received the number of scoring envelopes and RUAD boxes indicated on
your Packing List, and that you have received UPS return postage labels.
5. Check to ensure the materials have not been tampered with in any way.
If you find any discrepancies in quantities or you have other concerns, contact ACT immediately
by calling ACT QualityCore Support toll-free at 866.764.7228.
Storing Test Materials
It is your responsibility to ensure that test materials are securely stored and handled before,
during, and after testing. After you have verified receipt of all materials, reseal the boxes and
lock them in a secure place such as a storage room, closet, or cabinet that is not accessible
to examinees or other staff. Protect the materials from any conditions that could allow prior
knowledge of the tests by examinees, other teachers, or other school employees.
Immediately after testing, return the test materials to secure storage until they are shipped back to
ACT. Protect the materials from damage and from possible theft or loss.
Exercise vigilance concerning the security of all test materials before, during, and after the tests
are administered. All test booklets must be accounted for before and after testing, and then returned
to ACT.
10 End-of-Course AssessmentsDistributing Materials to Teachers
Typically, teachers will administer the End-of-Course Assessments to examinees during a regular
class period. Depending on the number of examinees in a room, you may wish to assign proctors
(school staff, not students) to assist the teachers with distributing and collecting test materials
and with monitoring testing. Be sure that everyone involved in test administration has and is
familiar with the contents of the ACT QualityCore Teacher Manual prior to testing.
Please track counts of test booklets distributed to and returned from each room using the ACT
QualityCore Test Booklet Tracking Log on page 27. If counts at any point along the chain of
possession show a discrepancy, please stop and locate the missing test booklet(s) immediately.
Complete the following steps before distributing test materials:
1. On the ACT QualityCore Test Booklet Tracking Log, record the date, the name of the
teacher to whom you are distributing test booklets, the number of test booklets, and the
corresponding serial number ranges for all test booklets issued to each teacher and class.
2. Ask each teacher to count and verify the number of booklets received from and returned to you.
When distributing materials for the test, each teacher should receive:
• ACT QualityCore test booklets or shrink-wrapped kits with embedded answer document and
reference sheet (when applicable)
• One test booklet for each examinee
• ACT QualityCore Group Headers (one for each test Roster Report)
• ACT QualityCore Teacher Manual (one for the teacher and one for each proctor who will be
assisting in the testing room)
NOTE: If you did not receive enough copies of the manual with your shipment, a non-preprinted
version is available on the ACT QualityCore homepage, www.qualitycore.act.org, under
Test Coordinator Materials. All testing personnel are required to read the materials provided by
ACT.
End-of-Course Assessments 11Testing Aids, Test Security, and Reporting Irregularities
Use of Calculators on the ACT QualityCore End-of-Course Assessments
Unless a calculator is provided by the school, each examinee is responsible for bringing his/her
calculator to the test and making sure it works properly. Examinees may bring a backup calculator
and extra batteries, but they may not have more than one calculator on the desk or in operation at
a time.
Examinees are allowed, but not required, to use an approved calculator on the following
End-of-Course Assessments:
• Algebra I • Precalculus • Geometry
• Algebra II • Chemistry • Physics
Permitted Calculators
Examinees may use any four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator unless it has features
described in the Prohibited Calculators list below. Models on the Calculators Permitted with
Modification list that follows may be used only if the teacher modifies them as indicated.
A minimum of a scientific calculator is recommended as examinees may not be able to solve
some problems without one.
Prohibited Calculators
The following types of calculators are prohibited:
• Calculators with built-in or downloaded computer algebra system functionality—prohibited
calculators in this category include:
– Texas Instruments®: All model numbers that begin with TI-89 or TI-92 and the TI-Nspire
CAS—Note: the TI-Nspire (non-CAS) is permitted.
– Hewlett-Packard®: HP Prime, HP 48GII, and all model numbers that begin with HP 40G,
HP 49G, or HP 50G
– Casio®: Algebra fx 2.0, ClassPad 300, ClassPad 330, fx-CP400 (ClassPad 400), and all
model numbers that begin with CFX-9970G
• Handheld, tablet, or laptop computers, including PDAs
• Electronic writing pads or pen-input devices—Note: The Sharp® EL 9600 is permitted.
• Calculators built into cell phones or any other electronic communication devices
• Calculators with a typewriter keypad (letter keys in QWERTY format)—Note: Letter keys not
in QWERTY format are permitted.
12 End-of-Course AssessmentsCalculators Permitted with Modification
The following types of calculators are permitted, but only after they are modified as noted:
• Calculators that can hold programs or documents—Remove all documents and remove all
programs that have computer algebra system functionality.
• Calculators with paper tape—Remove the tape.
• Calculators that make noise—Turn off the sound.
• Calculators with an infrared data port—Completely cover the infrared data port with heavy
opaque material such as duct tape or electrician’s tape.
• Calculators that have power cords—Remove all power/electrical cords.
Unauthorized Testing Aids
Using scratch paper, notes, or any foreign-language or English dictionary, a cell phone, or an
alarm on a wristwatch or cell phone is not permitted. Scratch work is to be done in the test
booklet. The use of any unapproved electronic device during testing is not permitted. Use of any
of these unauthorized testing aids should be noted in the ACT QualityCore Testing Irregularity Report
on page 25 of this manual.
Prohibited Behaviors by Examinees
The following examinee behaviors are prohibited. These behaviors should be documented using
the ACT QualityCore Testing Irregularity Report in this manual. These behaviors may lead to an
examinee’s test not being scored or to a reported score being cancelled.
• Filling in or altering circles on a test or continuing to write the essay after time has been called
• Looking back at a test on which time has already been called
• Opening and looking in a test booklet before being instructed to do so
• Looking at another examinee’s test booklet or answer document
• Giving or receiving assistance
• Using a prohibited calculator
• Using a calculator on any test other than the Chemistry test, Physics test, or a mathematics test
• Sharing a calculator with another examinee
• Using any device to share or exchange information at any time during testing or during the
break. (All electronic devices, including cell phones, must be turned off from the time testing
begins until the examinees are dismissed after testing concludes.)
• Removing or attempting to remove test materials, including questions or answers, from
the testing room by any means
• Using unauthorized testing aids
• Exhibiting confrontational, threatening, or unruly behavior
• Creating a disturbance or allowing an alarm or phone to sound in the testing room
End-of-Course Assessments 13Teachers should confiscate and retain indefinitely any electronic device, including a cell phone,
used in violation of this list of prohibited behaviors, and then contact ACT immediately for further
instructions.
If you suspect, but are not certain, that an examinee is engaged in prohibited behavior, discreetly
caution the examinee that these activities are prohibited and continue to observe the examinee
closely. To discourage an examinee from looking at another examinee’s answer document or
from giving or receiving assistance, move the suspected examinee to another seat. If you suspect
an examinee is filling in or altering circles after time is called, warn the examinee immediately.
Document your suspicions and subsequent actions on the ACT QualityCore Testing Irregularity
Report.
If you observe an examinee engaging in any prohibited behaviors, collect that examinee’s answer
document and test booklet. Advise the examinee that the answer document will not be scored.
Write “VOID” clearly on the front of the examinee’s answer document and then attach both the
answer document and the test booklet to a copy of the ACT QualityCore Testing Irregularity
Report. Place these materials in a RUAD box for return to ACT.
Prohibited Behaviors by Staff
The following staff behaviors are prohibited. These behaviors may lead to an examinee’s test
not being scored or to a reported score being cancelled. They may also result in consequences
for testing staff, including reporting of test security concerns to appropriate school or legal
authorities.
• Allowing examinees to engage in any prohibited examinee behaviors
• Allowing third parties, including but not limited to staff, to access, open, copy, reproduce,
or review test materials
• Developing and/or sharing answer keys or responses to test items
• Giving assistance to examinees in responding to test items
• Tampering with examinee responses
• Removing or attempting to remove test items from the test room without authorization,
or allowing others to remove test materials from the room
Reporting Irregularities or Prohibited Behaviors
The teacher will document any testing irregularities on an ACT QualityCore Testing Irregularity
Report in order to maintain test integrity and test security, as noted above. This report can be
found in this manual and in the ACT QualityCore Teacher Manual. Copies should be made as
needed.
The teacher will submit the ACT QualityCore Testing Irregularity Report and relevant testing
materials to you, the School Test Coordinator. Any test booklets and/or answer documents
affected by irregularities must be attached to the ACT QualityCore Testing Irregularity Report
and sent to ACT at the address noted on the report.
14 End-of-Course AssessmentsYou, as the School Test Coordinator, will document any irregularities occurring outside the
testing room or affecting the entire test administration. You should then make and keep a copy
of all ACT QualityCore Testing Irregularity Reports before returning them to ACT, in the event
questions arise during processing.
The ACT QualityCore Testing Irregularity Reports should include prohibited behaviors listed in
this manual as well as any unusual events that occurred during the test administration, including,
but not limited to, the following:
• Disturbance or distraction that could affect examinee scores
• Examinee becoming ill and discontinuing testing
• Examinee challenging a test item
• Staff member suspected of compromising the integrity of test results
In exceptional situations, testing staff may wish to file an anonymous report about concerns
that the ACT QualityCore tests may have been compromised. If staff members wish to report
such concerns anonymously, they may do so by reporting it at act.ethicspoint.com or calling
855.382.2645.
Editing Student Account Information
Do NOT attempt to edit a preprinted answer document that contains incorrect information.
You must correct the student information on the ACT QualityCore system.
To edit student account information:
• Log in as a School Test Coordinator using your e-mail and password.
• Select the Student Management tab and click on Search and Manage.
• Type in the first few characters of the last name of the student whose information you
wish to edit. All matches will appear.
• Click on the name of the student whose information you wish to edit.
• Edit the student information fields and click Save.
NOTE: The QualityCore ID and Date of Birth cannot be edited.
• A pop-up message will appear asking if you would like to save the changes. Click OK.
• A green message will appear confirming that the student’s information was edited
successfully.
End-of-Course Assessments 15NOTE: Confirm that the student account you edited has the same QualityCore ID that is on
the preprinted answer document. If it is the same, the student information will reflect your
updates whenever you view the reports. If it is different, you must give the student a blank test
booklet. Grid the correct QualityCore ID in Block D of the embedded blank answer document.
After testing, it is your responsibility to ensure that the student information you provide is
accurate.
Accommodated Testing
General Information
Examinees with physical or learning disabilities who cannot complete the ACT QualityCore
tests within the standard time limits using the standard test materials may be tested under special
conditions and/or using accommodated testing materials available from ACT.
Ordering Accommodated Testing Materials
ACT QualityCore test booklets are offered in braille and 18-point large-print, on audio CD, and as
reader’s scripts. Large-print multiple-choice answer documents are also available for examinees
with motor or vision impairments.
School Test Coordinators may order accommodated testing materials in the ACT QualityCore
system when assigning paper-based accommodations to students. Materials may also be ordered
by contacting ACT QualityCore Support at 866.764.7228. To ensure delivery, accommodated
testing materials must be ordered no later than four weeks prior to the test administration
date. An overview of accommodated testing procedures, Instructions for Accommodated Testing,
is available on the ACT QualityCore homepage www.qualitycore.act.org, under Test Coordinator
Materials.
16 End-of-Course AssessmentsAccommodation Codes
The School Test Coordinator should be certain that, for all examinees testing with accommodations,
the bubble(s) for the accommodation(s) is (are) gridded in Block L, Special Codes, on the front of
the examinee’s answer document. Review the answer documents after the test administration to
confirm that the appropriate accommodation codes have been marked and gridded.
R Reader
A Audio
T1.5 Time and a half
T2 Double time
UT Untimed
B Braille
LP Large Print
OTA Other Test Accommodations
Returning Test Materials
General Information
After testing, all materials must be stored in a locked, secure place until they are shipped.
All accommodated testing materials, test booklets, manuals, and other testing materials provided
by ACT must be returned within two days after testing is completed. Please note the two different
couriers, return addresses, and the materials that must be shipped to each address.
The testing materials listed below must be returned to ACT via UPS for scoring at this address:
QualityCore Processing Center
50 Education Way
Dover, NH 03820
• Manuals (used and unused)
• Test booklets (used and unused)
• Standard reference/formula sheets and periodic tables
• Completed Test Booklet Tracking Log
• All scannable answer documents, completed by students or transcribed by school personnel
The accommodated testing materials listed below must be returned to ACT via FedEx for
inventory and storage at this address:
ACT Services
McCarrel Center
2727 Scott Blvd. PO Box 4059
Iowa City, IA 52243-4059
• Large-type test booklets (used and unused)
• Large-type reference/formula sheets and periodic tables
• Audio CDs
• Reader scripts (used and unused)
• Braille test booklets and reference sheets
• Completed Test Booklet Tracking Log
End-of-Course Assessments 17Gridding a Blank Answer Document
If you did not receive a preprinted answer document or personalized test booklet for an examinee,
you must grid the examinee’s QualityCore ID in Block D of the answer document. The School
Test Coordinator must log in to the ACT QualityCore system to retrieve the examinee’s
QualityCore ID.
• Log in as a School Test Coordinator using your e-mail and password.
• Select the Teacher Management tab and click on View Teacher Rosters.
• Click on the appropriate Teacher Roster.
• Select Print Roster to view the roster and retrieve the student’s QualityCore ID.
NOTE: ACT cannot score an answer document unless the examinee has a valid QualityCore ID
and is registered in a valid roster.
ACT QualityCore School Headers
Your School Headers (figure 1) are located in the back of this manual. Verify that the preprinted
information is correct.
INSTRUCTIONS: Use a soft lead No. 2 SCHOOL NAME AND ADDRESS
pencil only. Do not use mechanical pencil, (Use a soft lead No. 2 pencil only.)
ink, or ballpoint pen. Enter the information
requested and fill in the appropriate ovals.
Erase any errors completely.
School Name
Block A: Enter the information requested. City State Zip Code
Block B: Start with the left-most box, and enter
the ‘‘Institution/Site’’ code printed in the upper-
left corner of your Packing List.
Test Supervisor’s Name (Please Print)
Block C: Record the total number of answer
documents accompanying this header. If the
number is less than 1000, precede it with zeros
to make four digits (e.g., 0059). E-mail Address
Block D: Indicate the number of Group Headers
included with your answer documents. If the
number is less than 10, precede it with a zero to Daytime Telephone Number
make two digits (e.g., 04).
Block E: Enter the ‘‘Contract/Cycle’’ number
printed on your Packing List.
© 2013 by ACT, Inc. All rights reserved.
20355 Printed in U.S.A.
019 1C1 130 Rev 1
||
| | ||
Figure 1. Blank ACT QualityCore School Header
18 End-of-Course AssessmentsThe Teacher Roster screen (figure 2) will list all the Teacher Rosters at your school. Find the
desired roster. Make note of the course name and the class period.
Figure 2. Teacher Roster screen of the ACT QualityCore system
ACT QualityCore Group Headers
Group Headers are used to separate answer documents into their correct rosters for reporting.
Returning answer documents with the wrong Group Header will cause delays in scoring.
If the Group Header is preprinted:
• Verify that the teacher’s name gridded in Group Header Block B matches the name assigned
to the Teacher Roster in the system.
• Verify that the COURSE gridded in Block C is correct.
• Enter the class PERIOD in Block D.
If you have questions about which examinees are in a specific roster, either refer to the
Roster Report or log in to the ACT QualityCore system and check the Teacher Rosters.
If the Group Header is NOT preprinted:
a. In Block B of the Group Header (TEACHER NAME), grid the Teacher Name exactly as it
appears on the Teacher Roster screen. If the test roster name is too long to fit in this section,
grid as much of it as possible.
b. In Block C of the Group Header (COURSE), fill in the circle next to the course name.
c. In Block D of the Group Header, grid the class PERIOD.
d. Complete the rest of the Group Header according to the printed directions.
End-of-Course Assessments 19Packaging Answer Documents for Scoring
Follow these steps to prepare used answer documents for return to ACT at the following address:
QualityCore Processing Center
50 Education Way
Dover, NH 03820
NOTE: Do not send accommodated testing materials to this address.
STEP 1
Used Answer Documents (and Headers) White ACT Scoring Services Envelope(s)
Contents should be placed in the following order, top to bottom, as illustrated in figure 3.
• A completed School Header should be at the top of the documents packed in the first
envelope.
• ACT QualityCore Testing Irregularity Reports should be packaged with attached answer
documents and/or test booklets, when applicable.
• Make sure that each Group Header and all its answer documents are packed together in the
same envelope. Do not mix groups or divide across multiple envelopes.
• Roughly 200 answer documents can be packed in each envelope.
STEP 2
White ACT Scoring Services Envelopes RUAD boxes
Preaddressed shipping labels are attached to the boxes used for returning used answer documents.
The labels are scannable; take care not to damage or alter them. These labels cannot be
photocopied.
Place up to 3 envelopes in each RUAD box (see figure 3).
• If you have 3 or fewer envelopes, you will place all the sealed envelopes in a single box to
return all envelopes to ACT.
• If you have more than 3 envelopes, you will place the first 3 sealed envelopes in one box,
the next 3 sealed envelopes into another box, etc., to return the envelopes to ACT.
After you have filled the boxes with all envelopes:
• Place any extra envelopes in one of the boxes being returned to ACT.
• Seal the boxes securely.
• Complete the “box ___ of ___ ” information requested on the outside of the boxes.
For example, if you have 2 boxes, you will write “box 1 of 2” on the first box. You will
then write “box 2 of 2” on the second box.
NOTE: You must use a permanent marker to write on the bags and envelopes.
You should have one or more RUAD boxes sealed and ready for return to ACT. They should contain
the white ACT Scoring Services envelopes and any extra RUAD boxes and envelopes.
20 End-of-Course AssessmentsUsed answer documents
Group Header
Used answer documents
Group Header
ACT QualityCore Testing Irregularity Report(s)
(with relevant materials)
School Header
POSTAGE
From REQUIRED
FOR
DELIVERY
Mark test being sent QualityCore Processing Center
50 Education Way
Dover, NH 03820
DCAPP
10911
Roughly 200 Answer Documents per RUAD box(es) = 1–3 Scoring Services Envelopes
Envelope per box
POSTAGE
From REQUIRED
FOR
DELIVERY
Mark test being sent
QualityCore Processing Center
50 Education Way
Dover, NH 03820
DCAPP
10911
Figure 3. Above, how to pack used answer documents for return to ACT; below, how to pack envelopes in
RUAD boxes. Up to three envelopes can fit in each box.
21 End-of-Course AssessmentsPacking Boxes for Return Shipping
Preaddressed shipping labels are provided. These should be used to ship nonscorable testing
materials (e.g., test booklets, manuals) back to ACT. The labels are scannable; take care not to
damage or alter them. These labels cannot be photocopied.
Confirm that all remaining test materials (other than used answer documents) have been packaged
for return by checking the items and quantities packed against the information shown on your
Packing List. Fill your original boxes in reverse order (see figure 4). For example, if your
shipment includes four boxes, you will begin packing test booklets first in the original shipping
box identified as box 4 of 4, then box 3 of 4, etc.
Pack used and unused test booklets in the boxes in which they were delivered. Contents should
be placed in the following order, bottom to top, as illustrated below.
• Used and unused manuals
• Used and unused test booklets
• Reference sheets and periodic tables, as applicable
• Completed ACT QualityCore Test Booklet Tracking Log
• Packing List
Copy the box numbers (“Box 1 of 4,” etc.) onto the flaps. Seal each box securely with clear
packing tape. Attach the preaddressed shipping label securely to each box.
NOTE: To ensure quick turnaround of score reports, it is critical that you return all used answer
documents in the RUAD boxes. If you have used answer documents that you do not want ACT
to score, indicate this by attaching an ACT QualityCore Testing Irregularity Report to the answer
document(s) and writing “VOID” clearly on the front of the answer document(s). However,
please note that voided tests will still be processed and subject to billing. Place these documents
in the envelopes and return them in the boxes. Any used answer documents returned in the boxes
with the test materials will not automatically be scored.
End-of-Course Assessments 22All Manuals
(Used and Unused)
All Test Booklets
(Used and Unused)
Reference Sheets/
Periodic Tables
Test Booklet
Tracking Log
Original Box Packing List
Figure 4. How to pack test materials (excluding answer documents) in boxes for return to ACT
Using Authorized Return Service for Standard Testing Materials
If UPS regularly picks up or delivers packages at a supervised area at your school, place the
sealed packages (RUAD boxes) there. A supervised mail room or central office is acceptable.
The next time UPS stops at your location, the driver will pick up the packages. Do not call UPS
to arrange pickup; you may incur a service charge that cannot be paid by ACT.
If your normal pickup area is not supervised, or you do not expect a UPS driver to come within
24 hours, you must take the packages to a UPS service location. Do not leave the packages
unattended in a location such as a hallway, common area, or loading dock.
If you do not have regular UPS pickup at your school (at least every other day), you should
take your sealed packages to any staffed site that provides UPS drop-off service. As long as
the shipping labels are clearly visible, the site will accept the packages for shipment without
additional paperwork. Please make a record of where and when you dropped the packages for
shipment. Do not leave packages at an unattended drop-off location.
NOTE: Please refer to ""Returning Test Materials" on page 17 for information on the two
different couriers and return addresses, and the materials that must be shipped to each address.
23 End-of-Course AssessmentsUsing Authorized Return Service for Accommodated Testing Materials
If FedEx regularly picks up or delivers packages at a supervised area at your school, place the
sealed packages there. A supervised mail room or central office is acceptable.
The next time FedEx stops at your location, the driver will pick up the packages. Do not call
FedEx to arrange pickup; you may incur a service charge that cannot be paid by ACT.
If your normal pickup area is not supervised, or you do not expect a FedEx driver to come within
24 hours, you must take the packages to a FedEx service location. Do not leave the packages
unattended in a location such as a hallway, common area, or loading dock.
If you do not have regular FedEx pickup at your school (at least every other day), you should
take your sealed packages to any staffed site that provides FedEx drop-off service. As long as
the shipping labels are clearly visible, the site will accept the packages for shipment without
additional paperwork. Please make a record of where and when you dropped the packages for
shipment. Do not leave packages at an unattended drop-off location.
NOTE: Please refer to "Returning Test Materials" on page 17 for information on the two
different couriers and return addresses, and the materials that must be shipped to each address.
End-of-Course Assessments 24ACT QualityCore Testing Irregularity Report (Complete and return ONLY if irregularities have occurred.)
School Name ___________________________________________ District Name __________________________________ Site Code ___________________________________
City ___________________________________________________ State __________________________________________ Test Date ___________________________________
Note all irregularities (individual and group) on this form. Enter the appropriate information and/or check () in each column and describe each irregularity. CLIP ASSOCIATED ANSWER
DOCUMENTS AND/OR TEST BOOKLETS to this form (do not staple). Return this form in an RUAD box to: QualityCore Processing Center ● 50 Education Way ● Dover, NH 03820.
Please Print or Type.
Individual Irregularities
Test Option Type of Irregularity (Applicable) Answer Document
Test Course
Booklet Teacher
Number Period
Paper-Pencil Test
Computer-Based Test
Technical
Navigation
Examinee Illness
Working Behind/
Ahead
Item Challenged
Behavior
Phone Alarm, Other
Device
Other
Materials Damaged,
Defective,
Duplicate, Replaced
(Specify)
Void
Do Not Void
Examinee Name:
Description:
QualityCore ID:
Examinee Name:
Description:
QualityCore ID:
Group Irregularities
Number of Examinees Description of Irregularity (Attach separate sheet if more space is required.)
Duration of Irregularity Course/Teacher/Period
in Testing Room Be prepared to provide a list of examinees affected by this irregularity.
Teacher/TA Name (Please Print) _________________________________ School Test Coordinator Name (Please Print) _______________________________________________
Teacher/TA Signature __________________________________________ School Test Coordinator Signature _______________________________________________________
ACT QualityCore Testing Irregularity Report 25ACT QualityCore Test Booklet Tracking Log (Make copies of this form as needed.)
School Name City State
Distribution of Test Booklets to Teacher/TA Return of Test Booklets from Teacher/TA
Name of
Date Test Number of Serial Date Test Number of
Name of Teacher/TA Teacher/TA Serial Number Range
Course Booklets Test Booklets Number Booklets Test Booklets
Receiving Test Booklets Returning Test Confirmation
Distributed Distributed Range Returned Returned
Booklets
Initials
School Test
Teacher/TA
Coordinator
School Test Coordinator Name (Please Print) School Test Coordinator Signature
As the School Test Coordinator, you are responsible for ensuring the security and return of the ACT QualityCore test booklets. Please use this form to track the distribution
and return of test booklets. Return this form with the test booklets to: QualityCore Processing Center ● 50 Education Way ● Dover, NH 03820
ACT QualityCore Test Booklet Tracking Log 27ACT QualityCore School Test Coordinator
Checklist
Receiving Materials from ACT
Verify that all items on the Packing List are accounted for and that no additional materials are
required (see table 1).
Reseal the boxes and store materials in a secure, LOCKED location until test day.
Before Test Day
Distribute the ACT QualityCore Teacher Manual to all teachers, test administrators, and
proctors prior to testing, and instruct them to read it before the test day.
Review the calculator policy in this manual (pages 12–13), and decide how you will
communicate this information to examinees.
On Test Day
Distribute test materials to teachers following the instructions on page 11.
Complete the ACT QualityCore Test Booklet Tracking Log (page 27) as you distribute test
materials to the teachers and test administrators.
Immediately After Testing
Complete the ACT QualityCore Test Booklet Tracking Log (page 27) as you collect test
booklets from the teachers and test administrators.
Store all materials in a secure, LOCKED location until you can review them and package
them for return to ACT. Please see page 17 for instructions on returning materials to the
two different ACT locations.
Reviewing Materials
Confirm that all Group Headers are completed correctly and that the “Number of Answer
Documents to Be Scored” (Block I) is correct.
Review all ACT QualityCore Irregularity Reports, photocopy them for your records, and
confirm that the affected answer documents and/or test booklets are attached to each report.
Packaging Materials
Confirm that the examinee’s QualityCore ID is gridded in Block D of each completed answer
document.
Follow packaging instructions (pages 20–22).
Shipping Materials Back to ACT
Ensure that shipping labels are visible on the outside of packed boxes and that all material is
either supervised before UPS or FedEx picks it up or you drop it off at a staffed shipping site.
NOTE: If you are shipping any accommodated testing materials, please refer to page 17 for
details on courier and address.
ACT QualityCore School Test Coordinator Checklist 29ACT Test Security Principles
1. Ensure that ACT business processes, distribution models, tests, test scores, and the
information and insights we provide are “secure by design.”
2. Protect the integrity of our testing assets and the information and insights ACT
provides throughout the entire life cycle of a test (from test concept
to development, delivery, reporting, investigation, and remediation).
3. Promote conduct that enhances test security. Deter and detect conduct that will
materially and negatively affect the reputation and integrity of our testing assets, test
scores, the information and insights ACT provides, and the ACT brand.
4. Ensure that a reported test score and associated information are accurate and valid
indicators of the test taker’s own achievements, behaviors, and/or goals.
5. Foster effective communication that enables prompt reporting and resolution of test
security concerns.
6. Ensure that everyone in the testing process is aware of, competent for,
and supported in their roles. Avoid placing individuals or organizations
in situations that may pose or appear to pose a conflict of interest or a
safety concern.
7. Build a sense of community, collaboration, and trust that engages and empowers people
to act upon these principles.
ACT Test Security Principles 31019010160
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