Module 3: ESOL Assessment Strategies

Students from diverse linguistic, cultural, and experiential backgrounds contribute to the dynamic environment in our K–12 schools.  Please review Section C of the ESOL Instructional Strategies Matrix. It outlines select research-based strategies that can be used to formally and/or informally assess ELLs. Now, access the ESOL Instructional Strategies Addendum for more details regarding how these strategies can be applied in your classroom. 

The state of Florida became a member of the WIDA Consortium in 2015.  Several member states serving linguistically diverse students share the focus on what ELLs can do academically. WIDA’s assessment design includes built-in supports which are similar to strategies in the ESOL Instructional Strategies Matrix.  The supports are categorized differently, but allow learners to show what they can do and serve as a model for classroom assessment. The supports are categorized into three main categories: sensory, graphic, and interactive. (WIDA Can-Do Philosophy, 2017, wida.us)

The Florida Standards emphasize the importance of Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing, in addition to the use of interaction.   As you assess your ELLs, be sure to consider each student’s language proficiency level and adjust assessment practices accordingly.  WIDA’s model performance indicators and performance definitions address differentiation, which will be explored in more depth during another ESOL Endorsement course. 

WIDA’s English Language Development Standards empower educators to recognize and support their students’ academic language development and academic achievement, serving as a foundation for curriculum, instruction, and assessment. In addition ACCESS 2.0 assessments build awareness of language learners’ strengths and provide valuable information to educators, students, and families.