MSAA Science

The Multi-State Alternate Assessment in Science, or MSAA Science, is Maine’s alternate assessment for science. This assessment is administered in grades 5, 8 and 3rd year of high school and is designed for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities.  The assessment is based on the alternate achievement standards in science, the Extended Performance Expectations [EPEs], which are aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards. MSAA Science is administered online within the same platform as the MSAA in math and ELA/literacy. A paper-based test is available to print as identified on the student's IEP.

MSAA Science Standards

The MSAA utilizes Extended Performance Expectations, which are alternate achievement standards in science aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards.

• Extended Performance Expectations (EPEs) - Elementary
• Extended Performance Expectations (EPEs) - Middle School
• Extended Performance Expectations (EPEs) - High School

Resources for Determining Eligibility

These resources are designed to support IEP teams in making data-driven decisions about eligibility and participation in the alternate assessments.

• Participation Decision Flowchart
• Alternate Assessment Participation Checklist