The total score in the ADAM assessment is the sum of all the raw scores (skills) for the five strands of ADAM, which is then converted to a grade-level equivalency. This means it is weighted by the number of skills in each strand. Thus, the Numbers and Operation strand, which has 14 sub-tests, carries the most weight in the total score.
This total score should NEVER be used for placing students into instructional groups. It is improper to do so because a weighted average of individual diagnostic measures does NOT translate into instructional groups.
ADAM tests a total of 271 skills in foundational math.
Note that raw scores increment with each skill mastered. So, for instance, the Fractions sub-test has a possible raw score of 0 to 26. This is because there are 26 skills that need to be mastered in the area of fractions. Mastery of each skill is done via 3+ questions testing each specific skill--i.e., adding fractions with unlike denominators, etc.
Finally, the grade equivalency is determined by what is expected to be mastered based on common math standards.
ADAM, as you may recall, is a criterion-referenced assessment. Thus, scoring is based on each student's independent mastery of skills and/or concepts.