Although curriculum-based measures (CBM) of mathematics skills have been available since the 1970s, researchers have identified limitations in the versions that were initially developed. The initial CBM for mathematics attempted, via a single measure, to assess both students' automaticity with math facts as well as the accurate application of these facts when completing multi-step problems (e.g., procedures). These are two discrete skills. The FastBridge Learning research team determined it would be more effective to design separate mathematics assessments that address specific skills independently. Using findings from prior research as well as the results of new studies, the FastBridge Learning researchers developed three different CBM tools for evaluating students’ math skills.
- CBMmath Automaticity evaluates the degree to which basic math facts and operations are accurate and automatic (fluent). The content reflects the math skills typically taught in grades 1 through 3 and this assessment can be used with students in any grade who need to master math facts for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. It consists of a General Outcome Measure (GOM) for each level as well as single- and multi-skill mastery measures. The GOMs are designed for universal screening and the mastery measures are designed for progress monitoring. CBMmath Automaticity is an entirely online assessment and students log in to the FastBridge website to complete it. It is timed for up to 4 minutes and scored automatically so student scores are available immediately for teacher review.
- CBMmath CAP evaluates the student's skills for solving complex and multi-step math problems. This assessment is aligned with the Common Core State Standards for kindergarten through grade 8. CBMmath Process is an entirely online assessment; students log in to the FastBridge website to complete it. The time required for this assessment varies by grade and whether it is used for screening or progress monitoring, ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. Items include both number and word-based problems that require the student to apply math facts and procedures. Student answers are scored automatically and available for immediate teacher review.
- CBMmath Process evaluates the degree to which the primary processes (e.g., steps in a multi-step problem) are completed with accuracy. The content reflects the math skills typically taught in grades 2 through 6 and this assessment can be used with students in any grade who need to master the correct procedures for number problems that include multiple steps. It consists of a General Outcome Measure (GOM) for each level as well as single- and multi-skill mastery measures. The GOMs are designed for universal screening and the mastery measures are designed for progress monitoring. CBMmath Process is completed with paper and pencil followed by entering students’ scores into the FastBridge data system. Both the student forms and teacher scoring keys are found in the Training and Resources section of the FastBridge website. CBMmath Process is timed for 15 or 20 minutes depending on the grade level. It is scored by the teacher using the downloaded scoring key. There are two scoring methods for CBMmath Process. Rapid Scoring is used for screening and error analysis is used for progress monitoring.