Students in local schools have been taking new tests this year to measure their proficiency in algebra 1, literature and biology.

The new Keystone Exams are end-of-course assessments designed to evaluate proficiency in academic content. Beginning this year, the Keystone Exams replaced the 11th grade Pennsylvania System of School Assessment tests in mathematics, reading and science for purposes of satisfying No Child Left Behind and Adequate Yearly Progress requirements.

Beginning with the class of 2017, students must pass the Keystone Exams to graduate from high school. Students will be offered multiple opportunities to take the Keystones throughout their high school career.

Each exam typically takes students two to three hours to complete and there are no time limits to finish the tests.

The tests are available in online or paper and pencil format. Individual districts will decide which format is best for their student population.

The scores will range from 1,200 to 1,800 with scores over 1,500 considered a proficient understanding of the topic.

The tests are specifically designed to measure students' ability to create, evaluate, analyze, apply, understand and remember key components to the math, science and literature curricula.

There are two modules for each test. In algebra 1, there are 23 multiple choice questions and four constructed response questions in each module. The first module covers operations, linear equations and inequalities and the second module covers linear functions and data organization.

In literature, there are three passages to read with 23 multiple choice questions and four constructed response questions in each module. The first module covers fiction literature and the second module covers nonfiction literature.

In Biology, there are 32 multiple choice questions and four constructed response questions in each module. The first module covers cells and cell processes and the second module covers continuity and unity of life.

For each exam 60 to 75 percent of the score will come from multiple choice questions and 25 to 40 percent will be constructed response questions. The written responses for constructed response questions are scored by evaluators trained in applying the predetermined scoring system. Most written responses are required to have students show their work or explain their reasoning.

Event though tests are currently being administered around the state, the official transition from the PSSA tests to the Keystones is contingent on approval of funding from the United States Department of Education.