ESL and EQAO

When it comes to leveling the playing field for ESL students working on the standardized tests such as EQAO and the Grade 10 Literacy test, there are a few things that can be done, both before and during the test.

There are programs available for students to give them practice on writing standardized tests, and on answering the sorts of questions that standardized tests ask. These usually run before or after school fore a few weeks shortly before the EQAO test. The ESL teacher could be responsible for running this program for the students. It is my understanding that many of the resources are available from the EQAO or ministry web site, so it would not cause an excessive planning burden.

During the writing of the test there are many accommodations that students could use. They could be allowed to have a dictionary, or a vocabulary sheet with them. They could also have the length of time for the test extended. Students might also be able to have the use of a scribe, so that they can just explain their answers, and not have the extra burden of trying to write them out. They could also have the opportunity to write the test in a small group environment, or alone using a privacy carrel if necessary.

In these ways ESL students might have the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge they have.