Ohio 9th Grade Proficiency Test Information

Information for the 9th Grade Proficiency Test in Ohio

General Information

Parents looking for information about the Ohio 9th Grade Proficiency Test should first know that it is no longer in existence. Currently, students are responsible for taking the new Ohio Graduation Tests. Based on Ohio's educational content standards, students have to show proficiency in five core areas: reading, mathematics, writing, science and social studies. Below, you'll find some information about the specific material your children will need to know for each section.

Tested Areas

On the Ohio Graduation Tests, students must show they have fully mastered the material they've learned in school in order to graduate high school. The tests primarily consist of multiple-choice questions that cover specific content standards for each subject area. In addition, students are also responsible for writing short answer responses and essays.

Reading: For reading, students will answer 32 multiple-choice questions, two extended-responses questions and four short-answers. The four content standards tested are vocabulary, reading strategies, informational texts and literature.

Mathematics: For math, students will complete 32 multiple-choice questions, five short answer prompts and one extended-response question. The six content standards tested are algebra, measurement, operations, probability, geometry and math processes.

Writing: The writing section will consist of ten multiple-questions and one short answer question. In addition, students will be presented with two essay writing prompts. The three content standards tested include the writing process, applications and conventions.

Science: The science portion of the test has 32 multiple-choice questions, two extended-response questions and four short answer questions. Your student can expect to be tested on the earth, space, life and physical sciences. Additionally, he or she will answer questions on technology and the scientific method.

Social Studies: For social studies, there are 32 multiple-choice questions, four short answer prompts and two extended-response questions. The topics can range from history, government, geography, societies and economics.

Performance Levels

For each of the above areas, students are given a performance level that indicates how well or poorly they've done. The five performance levels from lowest to highest are limited, basic, proficient, accelerated and advanced. In order to pass, the students must be proficient or better on all five sections of the test.