2011 NAEP Science Scores, Achievement Levels, and Achievement Gaps
Though most students improved and achievement gaps narrowed, fewer than a third of 8th graders reached proficiency in science last year on "the nation's report card." Data charts illustrate the latest state average scores, achievement levels and the narrowing of achievement gaps.
Narrowing Achievement Gaps
From 2009 to 2011, the average scores of black, Hispanic, and American Indian 8th graders taking National Assessment of Educational Progress tests in science improved at a faster rate than those of white students. Achievement gaps also decreased between students eligible for the federal free and reduced-price lunch program and their better-off peers.
For More Data From This Year's Report
Download the full report in PDF or use the NAEP state comparison tool provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.
A version of this article appeared in the May 16, 2012 edition of Education Week