NYSTCE English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Practice Test

What issue does test bias or norming bias highlight in the context of English language learners?

1. Including ELLs in the learning population

2. Standardizing tests for all language groups

3. Excluding ELLs from test populations to yield norm results

4. Focusing tests solely on verbal skills

The correct answer is: Excluding ELLs from test populations to yield norm results

Test bias or norming bias highlights the issue of excluding English language learners from test populations to yield norm results. This exclusion can lead to a misunderstanding of ELLs' capabilities and skills, as the tests may not accurately reflect their knowledge or language proficiency. When ELLs are omitted from assessments, the resulting norms do not take into account their unique learning experiences and challenges, which can ultimately disadvantage them in educational settings. By not including ELLs in the normalization process, the assessments may primarily represent the experiences and abilities of native English speakers, thus failing to provide a fair and equitable measure of ELLs' academic performance. Ensuring that ELLs are included in testing populations allows for a more comprehensive understanding of their learning needs and achievements, contributing to more effective educational strategies and supports tailored to this group.