Digital newsletter for families of ELLs to explain assessment practices and consider how to communicate the information for non-native English-speaking families

Sample Solution

Welcome to The Language Ladder: Understanding Student Assessments!

Welcome, families! This newsletter aims to demystify assessments for our English Language Learners (ELLs) and explain how they support your child's language journey.

Knowing Where We Stand: Different Types of Assessments

• Diagnostic Assessments: Imagine these as stepping stones at the beginning of the year. They help us understand your child's current English language skills and learning needs. This helps us tailor instruction to their unique strengths and challenges.
• Formative Assessments: Think of these as mini-checkpoints throughout the year. They are informal tasks and quizzes that give us ongoing insights into your child's progress and understanding of topics. We use this information to adjust our teaching and ensure everyone stays on track.
• Summative Assessments: These are like reaching the top of the Language Ladder! They are formal tests administered at the end of a unit or school year to measure overall learning and progress in both English language and content areas.

Connecting the Dots: Standards and Assessments

We use assessments aligned with English Language Proficiency (ELP) and content standards. Just like rungs on a ladder, these standards outline what your child should learn and achieve at each grade level in both English language skills (speaking, listening, reading, and writing) and subject areas like math, science, and social studies. Think of it as measuring your child's growth on both the language ladder and the subject-specific ladders!

Full Answer Section

Helping Each Other Climb: Accommodations and Feedback

We understand that assessments can be different for ELLs. We provide various accommodations like extended time, translated materials, or simplified instructions to ensure a fair and accurate assessment experience.

After each assessment, you and your child will receive clear and timely feedback. We encourage student self-reflection through conversations and activities that help them understand their strengths and areas for improvement. This feedback helps us plan appropriate enrichment or intervention strategies to personalize your child's learning journey.

Staying Connected: Resources and Communication

We believe in open communication. You are always welcome to ask questions about assessments or your child's progress. We encourage regular parent-teacher conferences and offer translated resources to bridge any language gaps.

Learning Together: Resources for Further Understanding

• Colorín Colorado's ELL Parent Guide to Testing: https://www.schools.nyc.gov/learning/testing/tests-for-english-language-learners
• National Center for Learning Disabilities: https://ncld.org/
• WIDA Consortium: https://dait.wi.gov/Pages/da-prosecutors.aspx

Remember, assessments are not about competition but about understanding your child's unique path to learning and growth. As partners in this journey, we're here to support your child every step of the way!

Together, we can help every ELL climb the Language Ladder and reach their full potential!

Scholarly Resources:

1. Abedi, J. (2004). Classroom assessment in multicultural settings. Sage Publications.
2. Harper, C. (2012). Assessing English language learners: Tools and resources for teaching and learning. Guilford Publications.
3. Steele, J. M., & Villegas, A. M. (2010). Culturally responsive assessment in action: A framework for supporting ELLs. Routledge.

We hope this newsletter clarifies assessment practices for our ELL families. Remember, we are always here to answer your questions and support your child's language learning journey!