The tests in the Standardized Testing and Reporting (STAR) Program are given each spring to all students in grades two through eleven in California’s public schools to measure their academic achievement. The designated primary language test (DPLT) provides an opportunity for Spanish-speaking English learners to demonstrate what they know and can do on a test in their primary language.
Questions and Answers About the STAR Program Tests for English Learners
Is my student required to participate in the STAR Program?
Yes. All English learners in grades two through eleven are required to participate in the STAR Program. Regardless of their primary language, English learners must take the STAR Program tests administered in English. This includes the California Standards Tests (CSTs) and, in grades three and seven only, the California Achievement Tests, Sixth Edition Survey (CAT/6 Survey). In addition, eligible Spanish-speaking English learners are required to take a designated primary language test (DPLT).
What assistance is provided to my student on the STAR Program tests administered in English?
English learners may use English-to-primary language translation glossaries or word lists that are regularly used in the classroom. These glossaries or word lists may not include definitions or formulas. They may be provided for all subjects on the CSTs, except English-language arts. They may not be provided for any subject on the CAT/6 Survey. English learners also may have test directions translated for them and ask clarifying questions in their primary language for all subjects tested on the CSTs and the CAT/6 Survey. A list of the assistance allowed for English learners is outlined in Matrix 2. Matrix of Test Variations for Administration of California Statewide Assessments for English Learners, which is available on the Student Testing Web page.
What is the designated primary language test (DPLT)?
The DPLT is part of the STAR Program. In 2008, the DPLT, given in grades two through seven, is the Standards-based Tests in Spanish (STS). The DPLT, given in grades eight through eleven, is the Aprenda, La prueba de logros en español, Tercera edición (Aprenda 3). Both tests are administered in Spanish to eligible Spanish-speaking English learners. There is no DPLT for English learners who speak primary languages other than Spanish.
Is my student required to take the DPLT?
If your student is in grades two through eleven and meets either of the following criteria, he or she is required to take the DPLT (Education Code Section 60640):
- All Spanish-speaking English learners who receive instruction in Spanish (regardless of how long they have been in school in the United States), or
- All Spanish-speaking English learners who have been enrolled in a school in the United States for less than 12 months (cumulative).
At the option of the school district, schools also may test English learners who will have been in a United States school 12 months or more (cumulative) and who are not receiving instruction in Spanish. The DPLT is taken in addition to the CSTs and CAT/6 Survey, which are administered in English.
When will the STS or Aprenda 3 be given to my student in 2008?
School districts are required to give the STS during the same window as scheduled for the CSTs. School districts are required to give the Aprenda 3 between March 15 and May 14, 2008. Please check with your school or school district for the testing dates for your student.
May I request that my student be excused from the STAR Program tests, including the DPLT?
Yes. Parents or guardians may submit a written request to the school to exempt their student from any or all STAR Program tests (Education Code Section 60615). Please contact your student’s teacher or school administration about the process for submitting a written request.
May I see the STS or Aprenda 3?
No. State law (Education Code Section 60616) states that all of the tests in the STAR Program, including the STS and Aprenda 3, are to remain secure. This means these tests cannot be seen by anyone other than the students who take the tests and the parties specified by law such as school board members or legislators.
When will I receive my student’s STS or Aprenda 3 report of results?
Student reports for the STS or Aprenda 3 must be distributed to parents and guardians within 20 working days after the school district has received them. Most school districts should receive these reports by the end of September. Student reports for the STS and Aprenda 3 will be provided in Spanish.
What information will be included on the STS or Aprenda 3 report?
Results on the STS student report will show how well students achieved identified California content standards for reading-language arts and mathematics. The STS report will provide the percent correct for each subject tested. The Aprenda 3 student report will include score information for each part of the test, including reading, mathematics, language, and spelling.
How are STS or Aprenda 3 results used to help my student achieve in school?
The results in the STS or Aprenda 3 student report may be used with other achievement information to identify your student’s academic strengths and areas that need improvement.
The STS or Aprenda 3 student report is one source of information about the progress Spanish-speaking English learners are making in school. Parents or guardians also should review grades, classroom work, and results from other classroom, school district, and state tests for a more complete picture of each student’s academic progress.
How to find out more
If you have additional questions about the STS, Aprenda 3, or other tests in the STAR Program, please direct them to your student’s teacher, counselor, or the school office. You also can find answers to your questions about the STAR Program on the STAR Web page.
