Benchmark Testing and Success on the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills: A Correlational Analysis

School Districts throughout the San Antonio, Texas region are using Benchmark tests to predict student performance on the state mandated Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) test without any quantitative evidence that the Benchmark tests are valid predictors of success (Harlandale Independent School District, 2006; Northeast Independent School District, 2006; Northside ISD, 2006). The purpose of this quantitative correlational study was to determine the relationship between the current Benchmark test system and student performance on the TAKS mathematics test of fourth grade mathematics students attending elementary schools located within the Northside Independent School District in San Antonio, Texas. Analysis of 4,891 fourth grade mathematics student test scores revealed a positive and significant correlation between Benchmark test scores and TAKS mathematics test scores. Post hoc analyses further revealed a positive and significant correlation when controlling for each of the demographic variables of gender, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Results suggest that district and campus administrators should feel confident that Benchmark tests used by the Northside ISD are measuring what they are intended to measure and are valid indicators of learning and achievement as measured by the TAKS.