Assessing English Proficiency

Identifying and assessing English learners is crucial for providing the right support. California uses specific tools and processes to determine students' English proficiency levels.

The Identification Process

• Home Language Survey: Completed by families when students enroll in school.
• Initial Assessment: Students who indicate a home language other than English take an English proficiency test.
• Ongoing Assessment: Annual tests track progress in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

Types of Assessments

• Summative: End-of-year tests that measure overall progress.
• Formative: Ongoing checks during lessons to guide instruction.

Using Assessment Data

Teachers use assessment results to:

• Group students by proficiency level.
• Design lessons that meet individual needs.
• Monitor progress toward reclassification as fluent English proficient.