In elementary and middle school, STAAR will assess the same subjects at the same grade levels that have been covered by the TAKS.

• Students will have four hours to complete the test.
• Questions are more complex, with a greater emphasis on critical thinking.
• Two to three essays are required in writing portion, depending on grade level.
• There are a greater number of open-ended (not multiple choice) questions on mathematics and science.

All tests will be scored and reported, and a raw score will be returned. Students may be required to attend summer school or take remedial classes based on their performance. A student's performance on the STAAR test may determine placement in pre-AP classes for middle school, so it's important for students to do their best on this exam.

Middle school students enrolled in a high school-level course, such as Algebra I at the eighth grade, will be required to take the STAAR end-of-course (EOC) assessment for that course.