Standardized Assessment of the Content Knowledge of ELL K-12

Butler, F. & Stevens, R. (2001). Standardized assessment of the content knowledge of English Learners K-12: Current trends and old dilemmas. Language Testing. 18 (4). pp. 409-427.

In this reading the issue of standardized assessment and the English language learner (ELL) was discussed. The ELL in some states is not included because of the length of time in class and language proficiency issues. So, the representation of the ELL becomes an issue. The use of accommodation was mentioned. Research in the use of accommodations for the ELL varied in their results, from negative, positive, and no difference. The impact of these studies resulted in finding out about the opportunity to learn (OTL) was lacking for the ELL. They found that the ELL was not exposed to content items in those assessments, therefore making those assessments not valid and reliable. In discussing the current trends, the authors suggest that those involved: applied linguists, language testers, psychometricians, classroom teachers, district, state and federal officials and those involved in educating the ELL to work collaboratively to come up with solutions to this issue.
This reading was like re-reading a few of the chapters and articles from past reading, which was good. In reading about the issues of the ELL, it would seem that there needs to be professional development courses required by every school district. In understanding assessment and the language learner, a teacher could benefit by making the classroom experience richer, both mentally and physically.