Language Bias

When the language of the test is difficult or unfamiliar, and it interferes with an accurate measure of what the test is measuring, i.e., content knowledge.

For ESOL students, assessments should determine their content knowledge with as little interference from their lack of English proficiency as possible.

Study the essay below written by a middle school ESOL student. On a scale of 1 to 4 with 4 being the highest, what score would you give this student on his essay?

Nine planet in solar system. Mercury venus earth mars jupiter saturn uranus neptune pluto. Mercury closet the sun. Jupiter biggist so big 1400 earths fit inside. Pluto far the sun. Cold planet.

Source: The activity on language bias is based on material from Grognet, A., Jameson, J., Franco, L., & Derrick-Mescua, M. (2000). Enhancing English language learning in elementary classrooms, Trainer's Manual, pp. 346-348. Washington DC and McHenry, IL: Center for Applied Linguistics & Delta Systems, Co., Inc. Adapted with permission from the Center for Applied Linguistics.

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