TABE Out-of-Range Scores

1. TABE Out-of-Range Scores April 2011

2. Objectives • Address the issues surrounding Out-of-Range TABE scores • Answer questions submitted by providers • Provide updated information from McGraw-Hill

3. FAQ-How do I prevent out-of-range scores on the pre-test? Make sure a student is taking the appropriate level TABE. Here’s why: • To best inform instruction • To ensure the best diagnostic • To maximize student progression toward goals • To minimize re-testing by preventing out-of-range scores • To place in appropriate NRS level

4. FAQ-How do I choose the appropriate level TABE? Use information gleaned from orientation and the Locator along with professional judgment to determine the appropriate level of the TABE to administer.

5. Getting to know the student Orientation Tips: • Discuss academic, career and work experience • Washington 13 http://www.kyae.ky.gov/NR/rdonlyres/994A1E33-E8DF-4AF8-B534-008D892C5F10/0/Washington13.pdf • Develop your own questionnaire • Power Path Screenings*

6. Choosing the Appropriate Level Test Locator = Levels E, M, D or A Word List = Level L

7. FAQ- How do I get the most accurate results from the Locator? • Tell students not to guess at an answer • Administer in a proctored and timed environment • Be cognizant of behavior and mental and physical well being

8. Cut Score Results Some programs have discovered making slight adjustments to the Locator cut scores may result in more accurate placement. One example is Modified Applied Mathematics • 4-6 TABE Level E • 7-8 TABE Level M • 9-13* TABE Level D • 14-16* TABE Level A *Modified range

9. Other Cut Score Suggestions Consider: • Using additional questions or teacher-made quiz • Adjusting for scores that occur at the low end of each range of scores • Using professional judgment to ensure proper test selection for each student

10. FAQ- Can I use the 7&8 Locator with the 9&10 TABE tests? YES. TABE representatives have assured KYAE that the 7&8 Locator may be used in conjunction with the 9&10 tests.

11. FAQ– What if a student takes the “wrong level” of TABE? Repeat initial assessment with correct TABE level (whole test or individual subject area(s), as needed) Example: Locator  student should take TABE D in all areas, BUT 9D results  Math Scale Score 438 Since 438 is out of range for the TABE D, then Math subtest score/info is not accurate. Student should be re-tested on the TABE M for Math. TABE D math score should NOT be used as the enrollment score. It is important that the lowest area be accurate.

12. TABE Levels/Content Ranges L 0.0 – 1.9 Literacy E 2.0 – 3.9 Easy M 4.0 – 5.9 Medium D 6.0 – 8.9 Difficult A 9.0 – 12.9 Advanced (These “cut points” refer to the student “score” point at which you should consider shifting from one level of the test to another.)

13. Out of Range Scores

14. FAQ- How do I prevent out-of-range scores on the progress test? For consistent problems with out-of-range scores on progress tests consider these three factors: • Was the student’s pre-test score in the lower, middle or high range of that level?

15. FAQ- How do I prevent out-of-range scores on the progress test? • Does the content of the instruction and the content covered by the assessment match? =

16. FAQ- How do I prevent out-of-range scores on the progress test? 3. How do you determine when a student is ready for a progress test? • Hours of attendance • Use of formative assessments • Mastery of all content measured by the assessment

17. Questions?????? If you have a specific question regarding TABE testing, please direct it to KYAE staff.