Curriculum Department

Arizona Instrument for Measuring Standards (AIMS) Information

Several years ago, the State of Arizona began implementing the Arizona Instrument To Measure Standards (AIMS). There have been many revisions as the State and all schools have been testing students in Grades 3, 5, 8, and high school.

The AIMS tests currently assess students in three areas: reading, writing, and math. Both the reading and math tests use only multiple-choice items. The writing test consists of one extended writing sample that is evaluated using the Six-Trait Writing Rubric. (An AIMS test for science is being developed for spring testing in 2008.)

Students graduating after January 1, 2006, must "Meet the Standard" on all three High School AIMS (reading, writing, and mathematics). Apache Junction Unified School District has been planning and working to ensure that every student will be able to pass the AIMS test and receive a diploma.

Beginning in spring 2005, Grades 3 through 8 will take the AIMS reading, writing and math tests. Tenth graders will also take the AIMS reading, writing, and math tests. All eleventh and twelfth graders will take any portion of the AIMS test that they have not already passed.

Your student's results on AIMS will be mailed home once a year. It is very important to review the results and to know how your student is doing with the reading, writing, and math Standards for his/her grade level. Scores are reported as Falls Far Below Standards, Approaches Standards, Meets Standards, or Exceeds Standards. For graduation, twelfth graders will need to have scores that Meet or Exceed Standards on the reading, writing, and math AIMS tests.

Progress reports, grade cards, AIMS score results, and parent conferences will help as you encourage and support your student's efforts and schoolwork. We all want to see your student walk across the stage and receive his/her diploma! Contact your school's principal or counselors if you have any further questions regarding AIMS.

Visit the Arizona State Department of Education web site for more AIMS information.