Presentations: Read Test/Directions

Related References

Types of Assessment Accommodations Accommodation Objectives Guiding Principles Case Studies Glossary

Reading the test verbally to the student is one of the most common accommodations.
Generally, this is done in one of the following ways:

• An adult reads the test aloud to the student or group of students.
• The test is recorded on audio cassette. In this case, the student may listen in the regular testing room with the aid of headphones or listen in a separate setting with no headphones. Some states provide tests recorded on audiotape.
• The computer provides the test in verbal form.
• The test and/or directions are signed to the student.

Procedure

1. If the test is available from the state or a test publisher in audio format, be sure to check the tape prior to the testing time to ensure that the correct information is on the tape, this means that what is on the tape matches the written materials.
2. Also check to ensure that the quality of the recording is adequate.
3. Be sure to have a backup tape.
4. Before reading the test directions and/or items, either for audio recording or real-time presentation, practice reading in a straightforward and clear manner.
5. If necessary, check pronunciations, especially with regard to technical terms or names.
6. Work out a procedure with the student so he or she can indicate when to have something reread (if allowable) or to move forward.
7. Determine how to orient the student to the test. For example, will the student be given the test page to look at before the reader begins? Will the reader provide an overview of the section prior to beginning reading (i.e., "There are six items. I am going to begin with the first item.").
8. If the student is using assistive devices (e.g., audiotape recorder, headphones, computer, computer peripherals, communication assistive device), check them the day of the test to ensure they are in proper working order.
9. Make sure to have a supply of batteries on hand for tools that require them.

Cautions

When reading the test aloud to a student, take care to avoid emphasizing certain words that may give the student an unfair advantage (e.g., be sure not to use a different voice inflection when reading the correct response in a list of multiple choice answers or to emphasize a key word in the directions).

There is always the potential for some malfunction when an assistive device is used (e.g., tape breaks, machine stops working). Be sure to have a backup plan. It also is important that the student know how to alert the appropriate staff member should something appear to be malfunctioning.

Excerpted from Assessment Accommodations Toolkit.

Provided in partnership with The Council for Exceptional Children.