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MAP Testing & GMAS Parent Info

A Parent Testing Information Rocket Booster

MAP Testing &GMAS Parent InfoA Parent Testing Information Rocket Booster

A. What are the MAP & GMAS Tests?

MAP is the Measure of Academic Progress.

GMAS is the Georgia Milestones Assessment System.

B. MAP: How does it work and what does it measure?

MAP is a computer-adaptive test, where students get a unique set of test questions based on their previous answer.


  • Every time a student answers a question wrong, the next question is easier.
  • Every time a student answers a question correctly, the next question gets harder.



MAP measures student achievement in the moment and growth over time reported as a RIT score.

C. Understanding MAP scores


  • Students receive RIT scores for each test area.
  • It is a stable scale, like feet and inches, that accurately measures student performance regardless of grade level.
  • It allows teachers to measure each student's academic growth throughout the school year and over time.
  • Students are usually tested three times during the school year.



Teachers use the score to inform instruction, personalize learning, and monitor the growth of individual students.


(MAP also gives student Lexile range)

D. GMAS: How does it work and what does it measure?

GMAS is a single assessment system that consists of open-ended items, a writing component, as well as multiple choice items.



  • End of grade areas tested: grade 3 (ELA & Math), grade 5 (ELA, Math & Science).
  • Measures how well students mastered state content.
  • Informs about student preparedness for the next level.



Scores are reported in Achievement Levels either Beginning, Developing, Proficient, or Distinguished.

E. Understanding Georgia Milestones scores

Students in grades 3 - 8 take the End-of-Grade measures. Achievement levels are:



  1. Beginning: Doesn't demonstrate grade level proficiency in subject area.
  2. Developing: Demonstrates partial proficiency, needs additional academic support.
  3. Proficient: Demonstrates proficiency, prepared for next grade level.
  4. Distinguished: Demonstrates advanced proficiency, well prepared for next grade level.




(Milestones also reports student Lexile range)

G. What do I do now to help my child prepare for MAP?

  • Talk to your child's teacher to help with any pre-test instructions.
  • Make sure your child is well rested and fed.
  • Encourage them to take the test seriously and do their best.


Click here for a sample test.


Click Family Toolkit, if you have more questions.

H. What do I do now to help my child prepare for Georgia Milestones?

  • Talk to your child's teacher to help with any pre-test instructions.
  • Make sure your child is well rested and fed.
  • Encourage them to take the test seriously and do their best.


Click here for a sample test.


Click Milestones Resources to access study guides.