English Learner (EL) students are entitled to specific accommodations during MCAS testing to ensure equitable access and accurate assessment of their knowledge and skills. The following accommodations are provided in accordance with DESE policies:
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Bilingual Dictionaries and Glossaries: EL students may use approved word-to-word bilingual dictionaries and glossaries during MCAS testing. These resources must not include definitions or pictures. The official list of authorized bilingual dictionaries is available on the DESE website: www.doe.mass.edu/mcas.
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Alternative Testing Locations: Principals have the discretion to assign EL students to testing environments other than their regular classrooms, such as small group settings, provided that all testing conditions and staffing requirements are met.
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Assistance During Testing: If an EL student appears to be disengaged or is not responding to test questions, the test administrator may quietly inquire if the student has completed the test. If the student confirms completion, the administrator should collect the test materials and instruct the student to sit quietly or engage in a non-disruptive activity, such as reading a book.
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