West Virginia TASC
Accommodations
Training
Copyright © 2013 by CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC. This publication or portions thereof may not be
reproduced and distributed. The TASC logo and Test Assessing Secondary Completion are
trademarks of McGraw-Hill Education. All other brands and product names found in this
publication are the property of their respective owners and are not associated with the
publisher of this publication.
Agenda
• Test accommodations overview
• Types of Accommodations
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Allowable resources
Spanish version
Alternate formats
Special testing accommodations
• How to execute accommodations during testing
– CBT
– PBT
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Accommodations and Resources
Overview
• CTB/McGraw-Hill supports the intent of the ADA
Amendments Act of 2008 and is committed to
supporting access to the TASC for individuals with
disabilities
• To this end, the TASC design includes accessible
formats and allowable resources that are available to
all examinees
• In addition, examinees with documented need may
apply for special testing accommodations
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Types of Supports
• Examinees have access to three types of support during TASC
testing:
– Allowable resources:
• No formal approval is required for the use of these resources
• In some cases a prior notification form must be filled out and
provided to the testing center at the time of scheduling so that the
testing center can accommodate the request
– Special Testing Accommodations:
• The examinee must request the use of these accommodations and
formal approval from the West Virginia State Test Administrator is
required prior to test administration
• Special testing accommodations are intended to account for the
effects of a person’s disability on assessment results
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Types of Supports (continued)
– Alternate Formats:
• TASC is available in English and Spanish in alternate formats including
Braille and large print editions
• To receive alternate formats, the examinee must provide prior
notification to the testing center
• A Prior Notification Form is available for download on the TASC
website at www.TASCtest.com
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Subject Areas
• TASC assesses five subject areas:
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Language Arts: Reading
Language Arts: Writing
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Allowable Resources
Allowable Resources
• Allowable resources:
− Tools, procedures, and materials that an examinee may use to support
test taking
− Allowable resources include items such as earplugs, magnifying
glasses, or seat cushions
− No formal approval is required for the use of allowable resources
− In some cases a notification form must be filled out and provided to
the testing center prior to testing so that the testing center can
prepare to support the request
− A summary of allowable resources and the Prior Notification Form are
available for download on the TASC website at www.TASCtest.com
− TASC Examinees should submit the Prior Notification Form to the Test
Coordinator at the TASC Testing Center at the time they schedule or
register for testing
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Test Formats
• Three TASC forms are available each year in English
and Spanish in CBT and PBT
– Forms A, B and C
• Alternate formats:
– Large print
– Braille (2 forms only each in English and Spanish)
– Audio
• Large print and Braille require prior notification
• Audio requires prior approval
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Allowable tools, procedures, and
materials
Tool/Material
Blank Place Markers
Cushion
Highlighter
Paper-Based Test (PBT)
Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Scratch paper, which is provided by the testing center as part of
the standard TASC administration, may be used as a place-marker
tool on the PBT.
Mark for Later Review is a navigation feature
that is part of the standard CBT
administration.
Prior notification is not required.
Prior notification is not required.
The TASC examinee may bring a seat cushion.
The TASC examinee may bring a seat cushion.
Prior notification is not required. The examinee is required to
bring the cushion.
Prior notification is not required. The
examinee is required to bring the cushion.
Highlighters are not permitted on the PBT. No markings may be
made on the PBT because the same test booklets are used for
multiple examinees.
A highlighter tool is available as part of
standard CBT administration.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Prior notification is not required.
Tool/Material
Scratch Paper
Paper-Based Test (PBT)
Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Scratch paper is provided during testing by the testing center as
part of standard test administration. All scratch paper is collected
and destroyed at the conclusion of testing. Examinees may
request lined paper or graph paper.
Scratch paper is provided during testing by
the testing center as part of standard test
administration. All scratch paper is collected
and destroyed at the conclusion of testing.
Examinees may request lined paper or graph
paper.
Prior notification is not required.
Prior notification is not required.
Eraser
Each TASC examinee is permitted to bring, or will be provided
with, sharpened number 2 pencils and an eraser as part of
standard test administration.
A digital eraser is available as part of standard
CBT administration.
Prior notification is not required.
Prior notification is not required.
Option Eliminator
Scratch paper, which is provided by the testing center as part of
the standard TASC administration, may serve as an option
eliminator on the PBT.
An option eliminator is available as part of
standard CBT administration.
Prior notification is not required.
Prior notification is not required.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Tool/Material
Blocking Ruler
Paper-Based Test (PBT)
Scratch paper, which is provided by the testing center as part of the
standard TASC administration, may be used in lieu of a blocking ruler
on the PBT.
Computer-Based Test (CBT)
In the TASC CBT, a blocking ruler is available
as part of standard administration.
Prior notification is not required.
Prior notification is not required.
Formula Sheet
TASC examinees will be provided access to a formula sheet as part of
standard test administration where applicable.
Prior notification is not required.
A formula sheet is available as part of
standard CBT administration conditions
where applicable.
Prior notification is not required.
Colored Overlays
An examinee may use tinted clear plastic overlays over pages in the
test booklet.
The CBT has configurable settings for
background color, font color and font size.
Prior notification is not required. The examinee is required to bring
the overlays.
Prior notification is required. The
administrator must change system settings to
support the examinee’s request.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Tool/Material
Noise Reduction
Magnifying Device
Paper-Based Test (PBT)
The examinee may use earplugs to reduce background noise. The
examinee will need to provide his or her own such device and make
it available to the Examiner for inspection prior to testing.
In the CBT, an auditory calming tool is
available. Earphones must be requested
from the test center in advance.
Prior notification is not required. The examinee is required to bring
the device and earplugs.
Prior notification is required. The
administrator must change system settings to
support the examinee’s request.
An examinee may use handheld magnifiers, eyeglass-mounted
magnifiers, freestanding magnifiers, or magnifying overlays, to
enlarge text and graphics.
A digital magnifying glass is available in the
CBT.
Prior notification is not required. The examinee is required to bring
the device.
Straightedge
Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Prior notification is required. The
administrator must change system settings to
support the examinee’s request.
The TASC examinee may use scratch paper provided by the test
center to aid in spatial orientation and reading.
A masking ruler tool is available in the CBT.
Prior notification is not required.
Prior notification is required. The
administrator must change system settings to
support the examinee’s request.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Tool/Material
Magnification
Special Lighting
Paper-Based Test (PBT)
Computer-Based Test (CBT)
A large‐print edition (PBT) is available upon request.
Large font is available on the CBT.
Prior notification is required.
Prior notification is required. The
administrator must change system settings to
support the examinee’s request.
Special lighting is allowed for an examinee to enhance
examinee vision and comfort. For example, some
examinees may need to be seated near the window for
natural lighting or may bring a small desk lamp.
Prior notification is required. The examinee must bring a
small desk lamp, if required. The examinee’s seating
location may need special consideration if an electric outlet
is necessary.
(Note: Use of desk lamps may not be allowable at some
testing centers.)
Special lighting is allowed for an examinee to
enhance
examinee vision and comfort. For example,
some examinees
may need to be seated near the window for
natural lighting
or may bring a small desk lamp.
Prior notification is required. The examinee
must bring a
small desk lamp, if required. The examinee’s
seating
location may need special consideration if an
electric outlet
is necessary.
(Note: Use of desk lamps may not be
allowable at some
testing centers.)
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
CBT Allowable Resources
• For computer-based features that are available as
allowable resources, the Test Coordinator may need
to change system settings in order to provide for the
system functionality that will enable examinee use
• The examinee should provide prior notification to
the testing center for those features to be made
available
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Special Testing Accommodations
Special Testing Accommodations
• Special testing accommodations:
− Only provided to examinees with appropriate documentation
diagnosing their disability or disorder and supporting the need for the
recommended accommodation
– An examinee may only receive a special testing accommodation if he
or she has submitted a TASC Special Testing Accommodations Request
Form to be formally approved by the West Virginia State Test
Administrator
– The request form must contain accommodations recommendations
from a physician, psychiatrist, or other appropriately licensed
professional
• In these cases, examinees may only receive the accommodation(s) that
have been specifically approved
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Accommodations Process
• West Virginia examinees download the Special
Testing Accommodations Request Form from the
TASC website at www.TASCtest.com
• Examinees will submit the request form directly to
the West Virginia State Test Administrator at
dkimbler@access.k12.wv.us
– If a WV examinee sends his/her request form to CTB, CTB will forward
it to WV
• If submitted via email: CTB will forward it electronically
• If submitted via paper or fax : CTB will scan it and forward it
electronically
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Accommodations Process
(continued)
• CTB, Test Coordinators, and examinees will receive
notification from the West Virginia State Test
Administrator as to the specific accommodations
approved
• Examiners will receive instructions from the Test
Coordinator as to which accommodations to provide
to a particular examinee
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Special Testing Accommodations:
Alternate Presentations
Accommodation
Category
Alternate Presentation
Accommodation
Details
PBT
CBT
Description
Audio CD of Subjectarea Tests
YES
An audio CD presentation of TASC Math, Science, Social Studies,
Reading and Writing is available in English and Spanish. A CD player
is required and should be provided by the test center.
DVD of Signed Version
of Test Instructions
YES
A DVD of signed instructions in American Sign Language is available
to examinees. A DVD player and appropriate viewing device is
required. A DVD player should be provided by the test center.
Screen Reader (CBT)
YES
The TASC CBT has screen reader functionality. The examinee
activates the reader by positioning the cursor on the text and
clicking.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Special Testing Accommodations:
Breaks
Accommodation
Category
Breaks
Accommodation
Details
PBT
CBT
Supervised Breaks
YES
YES
Multiple Sessions
YES
Description
Both the PBT and the CBT can be administered with supervised
breaks. The CBT can be paused for up to 20 minutes to
accommodate a break.
The TASC PBT can be administered over multiple sessions. The
coordinator will store the assessment in a locked cabinet between
sessions. The examinee must be supervised during breaks.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Special Testing Accommodations:
Calculator
Accommodation
Category
Calculator
Accommodation
Details
PBT
CBT
Description
Calculator Memory
Function
YES
The memory function of a calculator can be used to support working
memory. In these cases, it is expected that the examinee knows how
to use this feature and has experience with this accommodation.
Talking Calculator
YES
An examinee with visual impairments or print disability may receive
approval to use a talking calculator during testing.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Special Testing Accommodations:
Duration
Accommodation
Category
Duration
Accommodation
Details
PBT
1.25 Times Standard
Testing Time
YES
1.50 Times Standard
Testing Time
YES
Twice the Standard
Testing Time
YES
CBT
YES
Description
Extended testing time is an accommodation that is provided at 1.25
(1 ¼) times the standard administration time. This duration is
available only for the PBT.
Extended testing time is an accommodation that is provided at 1.5 (1
½) times the standard administration time. This duration is available
for both the PBT and the CBT.
Extended testing time is an accommodation that is provided at 2.0
(2) times the standard administration time. This duration is available
only for the PBT.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Special Testing Accommodations:
Physical Support
Accommodation
Category
Physical Support
Accommodation
Details
PBT
CBT
Preferential Seating
Location
YES
YES
Adaptive Equipment
YES
YES
Adaptive Furniture
YES
YES
Other
Description
Preferential seating refers to seating in a location that supports the
examinee’s testing experience. Preferential seating may be free
from distractions, have special lighting conditions, have extra desk
space for large materials, (large-print or Braille materials), etc.
Assistive technology (PBT only), pencil grips, etc.
Adjustable height desks, cushioned furniture, wheel chair friendly
desk, chairs with armrests, etc.
Other physical support accommodations may be approved based on
the examinee’s particular needs.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Special Testing Accommodations:
Scribe
Accommodation
Category
Scribe
Accommodation
Details
Point or Dictate
Answers
For the Writing Test
PBT
YES
CBT
Description
A scribe may be provided for the PBT. The scribe must be qualified,
have appropriate training, and follow specified guidelines.
YES
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Special Testing Accommodations:
Technology Device
Accommodation
Category
Accommodation
Details
PBT
CBT
Description
Technology-assisted
Writing
YES
Technology-assisted writing is an accommodation when the
following features are disengaged: formatting, spell check, and
grammar check.
Assistive Technology
Device
YES
Examinees may use personal assistive technology devices. However,
all assessment content must be deleted from the device following
testing.
Technology Device
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Special Testing Accommodations:
Separate Room
Accommodation
Category
Separate Room
Accommodation
Details
Separate Room
PBT
CBT
YES
YES
Description
An examinee may be tested in a separate location with a qualified
examiner present.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Special Testing Accommodations:
Small Group Setting
Accommodation
Category
Small Group Setting
Accommodation
Details
PBT
CBT
Description
Small Group Setting
YES
YES
An examinee may be tested in a small group setting with a qualified
examiner present.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Special Testing Accommodations:
Other
Accommodation
Category
Other
Accommodation
Details
To be described in the
Request Form
PBT
YES
CBT
Description
Accommodations not otherwise listed may be approved based on
the Evaluator’s recommendation and the Examinee’s particular
needs. Special arrangements may be required to support such
accommodations and not all testing centers may be able to provide
all approved accommodations.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Special Testing Accommodations
Request Form
Applying for Special Testing
Accommodations
• To apply for Special Testing Accommodations for the TASC, the
request form should be completed by the TASC Examinee (with
the support of an Advocate, if desired) and by a licensed
professional Evaluator
• The Examinee should deliver the completed form to the TASC
Test Coordinator at the local testing site for processing and
verification
– Forms may be submitted to the West Virginia State Test Administrator if the Test
Coordinator is not available
• Once verified, the request form is to be submitted to the West
Virginia State Test Administrator for review and approval
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Request Form
• The request form has four sections:
– Sections 1, 2, and 3 must be completed prior to the request being sent
to the West Virginia State Test Administrator for review
Section
is completed by the…
1
Examinee
2
Evaluator (a licensed professional who can diagnose the Examinee’s disability and recommend
appropriate accommodations)
3
TASC Test Coordinator at the Examinee’s local TASC Testing Center
4
West Virginia State Test Administrator
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Steps to complete
accommodations request
1. The Examinee completes Section 1 (with the support of an
Advocate, if desired)
2. The Evaluator completes Section 2 and provides supporting
documentation in the form of an Evaluation Report
3. The Examinee provides the request form to the TASC Test
Coordinator at the local testing center
4. The TASC Test Coordinator and Examinee review Sections 1
and 2 for completeness
5. If Sections 1 and 2 are deemed complete, the TASC Test
Coordinator completes Section 3
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Steps (continued)
6. The Examinee sends the request form and supporting
documentation, such as the Evaluation Report, to the West
Virginia State Test Administrator for review
7. The West Virginia State Test Administrator reviews the
request form, makes an approval decision, and mails the
decision letter to CTB, the Examinee, and the local testing
center
8. After the request form has been submitted the Examinee
can contact the West Virginia State Test Administrator for
questions about the status of a request
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
Final thoughts…
Documentation
• The following additional important documents,
available on the TASC website at www.TASCtest.com,
will help the Examinee and Evaluator prepare the
request form for submission:
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Overview of TASC Accommodations
TASC Allowable Resources and Prior Notification Form
TASC Special Testing Accommodations Descriptions
Examinee Guidelines for Requesting TASC Special Testing
Accommodations
– Evaluator Guidelines for Requesting TASC Special Testing
Accommodations
– TASC Special Testing Accommodations Approval Criteria
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
CTB Customer Support
• TASC Technical Support
– TASC_HelpDesk@ctb.com
– Toll Free: (888) 282-0589
– Hours: 7:30am – 8pm EST
• Monday - Friday
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.
West Virginia State Test Administrator
Debra Kimbler
Assistant Director
Office of Adult Education and Workforce Development
Building 6, Room 728
1900 Kanawha Boulevard East
Charleston, WV 25305-0330
304.558.6315 P
304.558.4874 F
E-mail: dkimbler@access.k12.wv.us
wvde.state.wv.us
Thank you!
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.