Purpose of assessment: The Standards of Learning (SOL) for Virginia Public Schools establish minimum expectations for what students should know and be able to do at the end of each grade or course in English, mathematics, science, history/social science and other subjects.SOL tests in reading, writing, mathematics, science and history/social science measure the success of students in meeting the Board of Education’s expectations for learning and achievement. All items on SOL tests are reviewed by Virginia classroom teachers for accuracy and fairness and teachers also assist the state Board of Education in setting proficiency standards for the tests. Follow this link for more information on the Virginia Standards of Learning.

Grades Taking the assessment: The chart shows what SOLs assessments are typically attempted at each grade level:

Grade	3	4	5	6	7	8	High School
SOL	Fall Growth Assessment Reading/Math CAT Reading CAT Math	Fall Growth Assessment Reading/Math CAT Reading CAT Math Virginia Studies	Fall Growth Assessment Reading/Math CAT Reading CAT Math Science	Fall Growth Assessment Reading/Math CAT Reading CAT Math	Fall Growth Assessment Reading/Math CAT Reading CAT Math Civics and Economics	Fall Growth Assessment Reading/Math CAT Reading CAT Math Science EOC	EOC reading math, Biology, history, writing*

*EOC verified credits can be earned in Middle School but 1 math, reading and Biology must be attempted in High school. Other SOLs are as needed.

Dates: High School – Fall and spring windows for both writing and Non-writing tests; Middle school – early spring for writing, late spring for Non-writing; Elementary – late spring for Non-writing. 

What to expect during the assessment:  SOLS are give in school and typically online. Most tests take 2-3 course BUT SOLS are untimed so if a student needs more time, it is permissible. See our accommodations tab to see which  accommodations are available on the SOLs. 

Practice links: Follow this link for information on practice items.

 

What Does the Scores Mean: Here are two documents to help you understand your students score reports: 

Please click here to learn about score reports.

Resources based on the results: Please check with your classroom teacher to determine steps to work with your child’s strengths and weakness on their SOL.