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Smarter Balanced Tools for Teachers


Tools for Teachers External link opens in new window or tab. is the formative assessment component of the Smarter Balanced assessment system (PDF). It is an online collection of resources aligned with the Common Core State Standards and the California Next Generation Science Standards that support K–12 teachers in their use of the formative assessment process to adjust teaching to improve student learning. Tools for Teachers features:

  • Formative assessment and accessibility strategies embedded in every instructional resource
  • Responsive, accessible instructional resources aligned with learning and accessibility standards
  • Interactive Connections Playlists of resources linked to Smarter Balanced English Language arts (ELA) and Mathematics Interim Assessments

The instructional resources in Tools for Teachers are developed and submitted by educators who adhere to a collaborative review and rigorous vetting process to ensure high-quality resources.

Tools for Teachers Videos

This four-minute video features how Tools for Teachers supports classroom instruction.


The Formative Assessment Process

Tools for Teachers supports educators with the four attributes of formative assessment: (1) Clarify Intended Learning; (2) Elicit Evidence; (3) Interpret Evidence; and (4) Act on Evidence. A description of each of the four attributes is available in this Formative Assessment Process flyer External link opens in new window or tab. (PDF).

The Formative Assessment in Action Video Series features California educators demonstrating formative assessment techniques in their classrooms.

Formative Assessment and Tools for Teachers Frequently Asked Questions

Other Related Resources

Questions:   California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress Office | caaspp@cde.ca.gov | 916-445-8765
Last Reviewed: Tuesday, August 06, 2024
Related Content
  • Meet an SNE Member
    Introduces select California members of the Tools for Teachers State Network of Educators (SNE), highlighting their favorite formative assessment strategies and Tools for Teachers resources.
  • Tools for Teachers State Network of Educators
    The State Network of Educators (SNE) is a team of educators from Smarter Balanced member states trained to contribute and review instructional and professional learning resources for inclusion in the Smarter Balanced Tools for Teachers web site.
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