Accommodations for Assessment

Accommodations for assessment should be selected based on:

• the student’s characteristics and needs;
• characteristics of the testing environment and nature of the assessment; and,
• state or district testing policies.

For ELLs with disabilities, examples of accommodations for assessment may include:

• Simplifying or clarifying test directions
• Providing written translation of directions in a student’s first language
• Testing with a familiar examiner
• Read-aloud written translation of directions in a student’s first language
• Providing dual language or first language reference materials (e.g., word-to-word dual-language dictionary)
• Voice feedback devices or whisper phones, which allow students to vocalize their thought processes while working on problems
(* Some of these accommodatins may not be allowable in all states -- check your state's policy for more information.)

The above accommodations may result in the student needing
additional time, breaks, or testing in a small group setting.