DLM Alternate Science Assessment FAQ
Learn more about the required alternate science assessment given to qualified students in grades 5, 8, and 11 below.
Introduction to DLM Assessment Webinar Recording - View the recorded webinar on the Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM) alternate assessment, which will become the statewide assessment for alternate science, math, and ELA beginning in fall 2025.This webinar was held on June 10, 2025 and includes an overview of the DLM model, provides key resources to help you prepare ahead of fall training, and incorporates questions from attendees.
For more thorough information on the DLM Alternate Science assessment, navigate to the DLM Montana State website.
Getting to Know the DLM Alternate Science Assessments for Montana: This platform is designed to provide you with quick, easy access to valuable information and tools to help you succeed.
KITE Educator Portal Access can be found by clicking the Test Administration Portal Link to the left.
Background
The DLM Alternate Science Assessment (DLM Science) is the alternate science assessment for academic state achievement reporting in Grades 5, 8, and 11 for students with significant cognitive disabilities. The DLM Science is designed to measure the alternate academic achievement standards aligned to Montana's Content Standards (2016) in Science. The DLM Science is the alternate version provided in place of the general Montana Science Assessment and the ACT with Writing test for students with significant cognitive disabilities. It is used to provide state, district, school, and individual student achievement information on the state-adopted content standards in science. It is used by the state to provide a consistent picture of student proficiency and progress across Montana's public schools and private schools seeking accreditation. It is an important measure for understanding comparisons between schools, over time, and for gaining an understanding of equity in educational services.
Grade(s): 5, 8, and 11
Subject(s): Science
DLM Alternate Assessment Testing Time
| Subject | Average Duration in Minutes Per Testlet |
|---|---|
| ELA Reading | 10 - 15 minutes |
| ELA Writing | 10 - 15 minutes |
| Mathematics | 5 - 10 minutes |
| Science | 5 - 15 minutes |
Testing Windows
Science Content only tests in Spring Window
Spring Window: February 1 - May 21, 2027
General Information
These resources include some general information about the assessment that will be helpful in learning about the Alternate Montana Science Assessment. Follow the links below to learn more.
Score Reporting
To see how a school is performing over time and compared to other schools in Montana, visit Montana's longitudinal data warehouse (GEMS). Official state-level results are released annually in the fall, typically around mid- to late September.
Districts are responsible for providing individual score reports to parents no later than fall parent-teacher conferences.
DLM Science Reporting Resources
- DLM Science Score Report Letter Template - districts can meet ESSA requirements for sharing student score information with this customizable letter template.