Benefits of Functional Level Testing
to the Student

• Frustration during testing is minimized.

• Abilities are more accurately reflected by the scores.

• Interventions are more effectively and appropriately.

• Results can be compared across districts more accurately.

Speaker Notes:

• Using the full range of Reading and Writing levels is the best way to ensure reliable results for all ELLs as well as to avoid student frustration during testing.

• Administering the most appropriate level of Reading and Writing ensures that each student is given only test items that reflect his or her skill level, resulting in a highly accurate score on the CELLA vertical scale and providing pertinent diagnostic information.

• Administering the most appropriate level of Reading and Writing ensures accurate identification and implementation of interventions for students.

• Uniform implementation of functional-level testing throughout a district provides accurate and reliable results of assessment of ELLs and ensures fairness when comparing student results across schools.

• Uniform implementation of functional level testing across the state ensures the fair and accurate application of sanctions by FDOE to districts whose ELL population fails to demonstrate progress in meeting Florida’s Annual Measurable Achievement Objectives (AMAOs) for two or more consecutive years.