WIDA Screener
Who takes this test?
New students who speak languages other than English at home take the WIDA Screener. The WIDA Screener tests students’ English language skills and determines if they are an English learner and entitled to supports and services to learn English.
When is this test given?
Students take the WIDA Screener within their first thirty days of school.
What is on the test?
The WIDA Screener Assesses each of the four language domains: Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing
How is the test scored?
The WIDA Screener platform automatically scores the Listening and Reading domains during administration. A trained local rater scores the Speaking and Writing domains.
How are the results reported?
The school in which your child is enrolled will mail a parent notification letter that will indicate the score and any additional actions that you need to take.
How are the results used?
Educators use the results of the test to determine if your child is an English Learner.
To learn more about the WIDA screener please visit the WIDA Screener page.
WIDA ACCESS for ELLs
Who takes this test?
The WIDA ACCESS for ELLs is given to all students who are identified as English Learners. The purpose of the test is to determine how well they are learning English. All English Learners in kindergarten through grade 12 take the WIDA ACCESS for ELLs every year.
When is this test given?
School year 2020-21 administration dates are from December 2 to February 26th.
What is on the test?
Assesses the four language domains of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing
How are the tests scored?
The WIDA online test engine automatically scores Listening and Reading during test administration.
WIDA's test delivery partner scores the Speaking and Writing domains in the spring.
How are the results reported?
The results are reported in scale scores, and proficiency levels. Proficiency levels are divided into 6 levels to show how students are progressing in their English language development.
Reaching Level 6:
Students function fluently in listening, reading, writing, and speaking
Students' skills are equal to those of native English speakers at their appropriate grade level
These students have gained the skills necessary to participate in an English-speaking classroom
Bridging Level 5:
Students function almost fluently in listening, reading, writing, and speaking
Students' skills are almost equal to those of native English speakers at their appropriate grade level
These students have gained the skills necessary to participate in an English-speaking classroom
Expanding level 4:
Students are able to use skills at a higher level than developing students.
Although their knowledge and use of English is at a more advanced level, these students make mistakes usually involving more subtle use of language and difficult levels of vocabulary and grammar
Developing level 3:
Students have better English skills than students at the basic level
However, these students' skills are often not well developed and they make significant errors in the four skill areas
Beginning level 2:
A student at the Emerging level needs some supports and structures to improve their academic language skills
Entering level 1:
Students are at the beginning level in the four skill areas
These students’ English skills are minimal
How are the results used?
Students will continue to receive English Language Development services until their scores on the WIDA ACCESS show that they have learned English well enough to participate fully in their English-only classes. Educators also use students’ WIDA ACCESS scores to help decide which instructional standards to focus on, and to evaluate programs.
Currently a score of 4.7 is considered proficient in the state of Montana. Based on research, the OPI has determined that students growing at least 0.5 points on the WIDA ACCESS for ELLs each year should attain English Language Proficiency within 5 years. The OPI's definition of progress is any student who shows a 0.5 point growth on their composite score from the previous year.
To learn more about the WIDA ACCESS for ELLs please visit the WIDA ACCESS page.