Assessment Resources - Part 7

English Language Learners (Chapter 8)

Assessment  for English Language Learners (ELLs) is based on the modifications/accommodations outlined in the student's IEP that are based on the student's language-learning needs. On report cards teachers will check the ESL/ELD box to indicate that modifications to the curriculum have been made in order to address the language learning needs of the student. However, just because a student is participating in ESL or ELD classes does not mean that there are modifications being made to the curriculum.

Several accommodations can be incorporate into the assessment of ELLs; such as: 

• allowance of extra time; 
• use of alternative assessment strategies; or 
• use of simplified language and instructions. 

Modifications vary on a student-to-student basis and are based on how early a student is in the language learning stage and how limited/extensive their prior schooling was. 

Some other resources to help teachers include ELL students in their classroom include this report from Stanford about assessing ELLs, this document on ELL IEPs, and this government document talking about how to support ELLs. 

In terms of my own practice, I am worried I will struggle with my patience when it comes to ELL students. In order to combat this, I'll need to constantly be thinking about my experience learning french or being in other countries where English is not the common language. Hopefully, this will help me empathize with the ELL students and be more patient.