Access

In Illinois, ACCESS testing (ACCESS for MLs) is the mandatory annual English Language Proficiency (ELP) assessment for all K-12 Multilingual Learners (MLs) to measure their progress in academic English across listening, speaking, reading, and writing, helping schools determine services and exit students from EL programs once they reach proficiency (typically score 4.8). Developed by WIDA, this test ensures ELs are acquiring the language needed for school success, aligning with federal mandates and state requirements.

What it is:

• Assessment for English Language Acquisition: It measures how well students understand and use English in academic settings.
• Annual Requirement: All identified Multilingual Learners must take it yearly. 

Who Takes It:

• Kindergarten through 12th-grade students identified as Multilingual Learners (MLs). 

What it Measures:

• Four Domains: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing.
• Academic Language: Focuses on English needed for school subjects, not just social conversation. 

Why it's Important:

• Monitors Progress: Tracks a student's journey toward English proficiency.
• Informs Instruction: Helps educators tailor support and curriculum.
• Determines Exit: Students can leave ML programs once they reach a state-defined score (e.g., a composite score of 4.8 in Illinois). 

Key Details:

• Administered annually, typically between January and February.
• Part of the WIDA Consortium, used across multiple states.
• Results provide reports for parents and staff.