Using Authentic Assessments with ELLs

Using Authentic Assessments with ELLs

1. 1. WHO are my ELLs?

   • Home Language Survey
   • Initial Screening Tool
     • ACCESS
     • W-APT
   • Application: Whenever possible, it is good for teachers to assess a new ELL student's academic performance using their native language, in addition to English. Their understanding and knowledge from their native language has the potential to transfer to an understanding in English.

2. 2. WHY do I need to be concerned about Authentic Assessments for my ELLs?

   • U.S. laws require that ELLs receive services that promote acquisition of English and academic performance
   • Development of an individualized plan for each ELL
   • Application: Services for ELLs should be equitable, not just equal
   • Standards
     • TESOL
     • WIDA
     • Common Core

3. 3. WHERE do my students come from, and how does that affect them?

   • Socio-cultural Factors
     • Schools in their native country
     • Number of years in school and level of performance
     • Structure of the school
     • Cultural expectations of teacher-student relationship
     • Educational background of family members
   • Application: Cultural bias is present on tests, especially on ones that are standardized. This may be a deterrent to an ELL's success. Look for wording that may be inaccessible for ELLs and adjust assessments as needed and when possible.

4. 4. WHAT are Authentic Assessments?

   • Project Based Learning
   • Performance Based Assessments
   • Portfolios
   • Constructed Response Items and Projects
   • Differentiated Instruction
   • Application: Traditional assessments allow students to choose from a list of possible answers, which means that students can get by with a fragile understanding of a topic. Authentic Assessments, however, compel students to apply the knowledge they have acquired by constructing a response or project.

5. 5. HOW can I assess students on Authentic Assessments when they lack skills in English?

   • It should assess the four language domains: speaking, writing, reading, & listening
   • Application: Teachers should conduct ongoing assessments, both formal and informal
   • Steps:
     • 1. Base it on Standards
       • 2. Assign Authentic Tasks
         • 3. Set a clear Criteria
           • 4. Use a Rubric

6. 6. WHEN, if ever, can I give traditional assessments?

   • Traditional Assessments
     • Multiple-choice
     • Fill-in-the-Blanks
     • True & False
     • Matching
     • Contrived situations
     • Transmits a body of knowledge
   • Applicatoin: Authentic Assessments are not meant to completely replace traditional assessments. There can be a mix. ELLs should be learning problem-solving skills as well as content knowledge.
   • Traditional Assessments provide indirect evidence of learning, while Authentic Assessments provide direct evidence of comprehension and understanding.

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