Improving Testing for English Language Learners

Abstract

Improving Testing for English Language Learners is a comprehensive book that provides relevant information on testing English language learners (ELLs) from kindergarten through twelfth grade in schools in the United States. The author, Rebecca J. Kopriva, blends her research background and experience with current issues surrounding the testing of ELLs. In selected chapters, she also collaborates with other leading researchers to provide more precise information on the topics covered. Specifically, this book examines test use by focusing on the interaction of the test-taker and content tests, rather than on language proficiency assessments. Kopriva currently works for the Wisconsin Center for Education Research at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, as a visiting researcher. She has also served as a testing director for various states as well as the U.S. Department of Education. This book, in fact, can be viewed as an extension of her previous research. She explains in the preface and chapter 1 that this book is not necessarily meant to be read cover to cover. Rather, each chapter stands alone as a reference on a particular topic. If the reader needs more background on ELLs, he or she can begin with the first chapters. However, if the reader already has established background knowledge, s/he can refer to those chapters which address his or her particular needs or interests.

Keywords

• Language
• Ability testing
• Educational tests
• Educational measurements
• Study of language
• Teaching language
• Education
• Foreign speakers
• English language learners
• ELL
• Applied linguistics