Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Special Education Practice Exam

What type of tests can help English Language Learners receive equitable evaluations?

1. Only traditional standardized tests

2. Only informal assessments in English

3. Various formal and informal tests in the student's primary language

4. Non-verbal behavioral assessments

The correct answer is: Various formal and informal tests in the student's primary language

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of using a variety of assessments, particularly those administered in the student's primary language, to evaluate English Language Learners (ELLs) equitably. This approach recognizes that language barriers can significantly impact a student's ability to demonstrate knowledge and skills when assessed in a language they are still acquiring. By utilizing tests in the primary language, educators can gain a more accurate understanding of the student’s abilities and knowledge without the confounding variable of limited English proficiency. It ensures that assessments more fairly reflect the student's true capabilities and learning progress. In contrast, relying solely on traditional standardized tests or informal assessments in English may not provide a complete picture of an ELL's skills and knowledge. These methods could disadvantage students who are still navigating a new language. Additionally, non-verbal behavioral assessments might not comprehensively assess academic skills or content knowledge, as they do not allow students to convey their understanding in context-specific ways. Thus, using a broad range of both formal and informal assessments in the primary language offers a more balanced and fair evaluation strategy for English Language Learners.