English Language Development Test

“Program Testing English Fluency Faulted” (Dec. 9), on the new California English Language Development Test, stressed only the difficulties in this new test for almost 1.5 million students. Here are some good things about the test.

For the first time, we will have a total picture of our state’s English learners. We will know what students can do and what they need to learn in the areas of oral language, reading and writing. We will know how many students are at each of the test’s five levels, from beginning to advanced. We will have a uniform statewide system to evaluate students over time, as they improve their proficiency in English.

California’s professional organizations support this test and contributed to its development because we know that this information is badly needed. Similarly, teachers’ and administrators’ organizations are currently giving feedback to the California Department of Education, the testing company and the Legislature so that next year’s administration can be more efficient and less expensive, while meeting the aims of the testing program.

Sara Fields

ELD Resource Teacher

Linwood E. Howe School

Culver City