English language learners and Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) testing

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine if MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) testing from the NWEA (Northwest Evaluation Association) is a fair and appropriate test for English language learners. Ten elementary school students in a small suburban school were studied during the 2011-2012 school year. Their scores in reading and math in both fall and spring testing windows were compared with standardized growth targets. Their English language proficiency levels and classroom performance were also considered. The majority of students studied were able to reach recommended growth targets in reading and math. It is suggested that MAP is a fair test for these students, but is also recommended that teachers explicitly teach content and technical vocabulary, utilize appropriate accommodations, and become familiar with and use WIDA (World Class Instructional Design and Assessment) performance indicators for ELL students in order to enhance student performance on the test.