As we approach testing season,
there are a few things teachers can do to prepare English Learners, and mitigate
the interference of language proficiency and cultural variance on student scores. ELs can benefit from explicit teaching on
“test wiseness”, or the “how” of test-taking.
Another is instruction on the “language of tests”—academic terms and
phrases in test items that are likely to be unfamiliar. In the latter case, students may understand
the core concept in the question, but not what they need to do to demonstrate
their understanding.
Test Wiseness
Many ELs will not have
experienced standardized testing as it is done in the U.S. Even though standardized assessments are common
around the world, frequency, format, and process can differ. Some students may never have taken a
standardized test. It is important to teach
test-taking strategies such as:
·
Working as quickly as possible without
compromising accuracy.
·
Paying close attention to directions.
·
Guessing when there is no penalty for doing so.
·
Making use of relevant information in other test
questions.
·
Teaching students how to negotiate different
types of test questions.
ELs can also benefit from experiencing
a simulation prior to the real test.
Doing so will lower anxiety and improve performance.
The Language of
Test-Taking
Across all types and formats of
tests, certain common phrases and terms (such as “analyze”, “discuss” and “illustrate”)
may be unfamiliar to ELs. I’ve created a
glossary with definitions, examples and Spanish translations.
Test Accommodations
Teachers can explain to ELs what
accommodations they will be allowed on a standardized test. Here’s one teacher’s approach:
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