Florida FAST Testing & B.E.S.T. Writing Assessment
At Wallace Lake K–8, we are committed to helping every student reach their full potential. As part of this mission, we participate in statewide assessments designed to monitor academic progress and guide instruction. Two key assessments in Florida are the Florida FAST (Florida Assessment of Student Thinking) and the B.E.S.T. Writing Test (Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking).
What is the FAST Assessment?
The Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST) is a statewide progress monitoring tool used for students in grades K–10. Unlike traditional standardized tests, FAST assessments are administered three times per year to help track student growth in real time.
Key Features:
Covers ELA (English Language Arts) and Mathematics
Adaptive and computer-based
Helps teachers tailor instruction based on student needs
Provides families with timely feedback on student progress
FAST assessments are designed to be short and focused, giving educators valuable insights into each student’s academic development throughout the year.
What is the B.E.S.T. Writing Test?
The B.E.S.T. Writing Assessment is part of Florida’s effort to improve literacy and writing instruction. This assessment measures how well students can plan, organize, and express their ideas through writing based on the state’s B.E.S.T. Standards.
Who Takes It:
Administered to students in grades 4–10
Given once per year, typically in the spring
What to Expect:
Students read a pair of related texts
They write an essay (either informative or argumentative) in response to a prompt
Essays are scored on focus, organization, support, and language use
The B.E.S.T. Writing test helps educators understand student strengths and areas for growth in written communication, an essential skill for future success.
Supporting Your Student
Families can support students by:
Encouraging regular reading and writing at home
Talking about what they’re learning in class
Ensuring good attendance and plenty of rest before test days
We believe that with the right support, every student can show what they know and grow from the experience. If you have any questions about FAST or B.E.S.T. assessments, please contact your child’s teacher or the school testing coordinator.