What Does FAST ELA Reading Assess?

FAST ELA Reading measures student understanding and application of reading comprehension skills aligned to B.E.S.T. Standards.

Key Reading Skills Tested:

• Key Ideas and Details: Understanding main ideas, supporting details, inferences
• Craft and Structure: Analyzing word choice, text structure, point of view
• Integration of Knowledge and Ideas: Comparing texts, evaluating arguments
• Vocabulary: Context clues, word relationships, figurative language

Test Format:

• Delivery: Computer-based, adaptive
• Text Types: Literary (fiction, poetry, drama) and Informational (non-fiction)
• Question Types: Multiple choice, multi-select, text-based evidence
• Time: Untimed (students work at their own pace)

Testing Schedule:

Three times per year: PM1 (Fall), PM2 (Winter), PM3 (Spring)

What Does FAST Mathematics Assess?

FAST Mathematics measures student understanding of mathematical concepts and problem-solving skills aligned to B.E.S.T. Standards.

Mathematics Domains Tested:

Elementary (Grades 3-5):

• Number Operations: Whole numbers, fractions, decimals
• Addition: 457 + 683 = 1,140
• Fraction operations: ²⁄₃ + ¹⁄₄ = ¹¹⁄₁₂
• Measurement: Length, area, perimeter, volume
• Area of rectangle: A = l × w
• Geometry: Shapes, angles, coordinates
• Data Analysis: Graphs, tables, statistics

Middle School (Grades 6-8):

• Ratios and Proportions: ³⁄₅ = x/20, x = 12
• Expressions and Equations: 3x + 7 = 22, x = 5
• Functions: Linear relationships, slope, y = mx + b
• Geometry and Measurement: Surface area, volume
• Volume of cylinder: V = πr²h
• Statistics and Probability: Mean, median, mode, probability

Test Format:

• Delivery: Computer-based, adaptive
• Calculator: Available for applicable questions
• Question Types: Multiple choice, equation editor, grid entry
• Time: Untimed

What is B.E.S.T. Writing?

The B.E.S.T. Writing Assessment replaced the FSA Writing test, measuring students' writing skills aligned to B.E.S.T. Standards.

Writing Genres Tested:

• Grades 4-7: Opinion/Argumentative Writing
• Grades 8-10: Argumentative Writing

What Students Must Do:

• Read one or more source texts
• Respond to a writing prompt
• Develop a clear argument or opinion
• Support with evidence from sources
• Organize ideas logically
• Use appropriate language and conventions

Assessment Criteria:

• Purpose, Focus, and Organization
• Evidence and Elaboration
• Conventions of Standard English

Testing Window: March 30 - April 10, 2026

Science Assessment Overview

Students in grades 5 and 8 take the Statewide Science Assessment measuring science knowledge and skills.

Science Content Areas:

• Nature of Science: Scientific method, inquiry, models
• Life Science: Organisms, ecosystems, genetics, evolution
• Physical Science: Matter, energy, forces, motion
• Earth and Space Science: Earth systems, astronomy, weather

Testing Window: May 1-29, 2026

Required for Graduation

Content Areas:

• Functions and Equations: Linear, quadratic, exponential functions
• Linear equation: y = mx + b
• Quadratic equation: y = ax² + bx + c
• Quadratic formula: x = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / 2a
• Polynomials and Rational Expressions: Factoring, operations
• Creating Equations: Modeling real-world situations
• Systems of Equations: Solving graphically and algebraically

Format: Computer-based, adaptive, untimed

Florida Department of Education - Official Assessment Resources

What happened to FSA?

FSA was replaced starting in 2022-2023. Florida transitioned to FAST (Florida Assessment of Student Thinking) for ELA Reading and Mathematics, and B.E.S.T. Writing assessments. The new system provides more frequent feedback through three progress monitoring administrations per year.

Why was FSA replaced?

Florida updated its academic standards from Florida Standards to B.E.S.T. (Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking) Standards. The new FAST system better aligns with B.E.S.T. Standards and provides progress monitoring throughout the year rather than a single end-of-year test.

How is FAST different from FSA?

Key differences:

• FAST is given THREE times per year (FSA was once)
• FAST is computer adaptive (adjusts to student responses)
• FAST provides faster results for instructional adjustments
• FAST aligns to B.E.S.T. Standards (FSA aligned to Florida Standards)

Which FAST test counts most - PM1, PM2, or PM3?

PM3 (Spring) is the summative assessment used for accountability purposes. However, PM1 and PM2 provide important progress information to help students improve before PM3.

Are FAST tests timed?

No. FAST assessments are untimed, allowing students to work at their own pace. However, most students complete assessments within 1-3 hours depending on grade level and subject.

Can students retake FAST assessments?

Grade 10 students can retake the FAST ELA Reading assessment if they do not pass. Retake windows are provided in Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer. Retakes for other grade levels are generally not offered.

Do EOC exams still exist?

Yes. End-of-Course exams in Algebra 1, Geometry, Biology 1, Civics, and U.S. History are still administered. Students must pass Algebra 1 and Biology 1 EOCs (or earn concordant scores) to graduate.

What are concordant scores?

Students can meet graduation requirements by earning specific scores on SAT or ACT instead of passing EOC exams. This provides an alternative pathway to demonstrate proficiency.

When will my child receive FAST results?

Results are typically available 2-4 weeks after the testing window closes. Schools communicate results to families. Check your school/district website for specific timelines.