The purpose of the IPT-Reading & Writing (R&W) Tests is to provide, in conjunction with the IPT-Oral Test, comprehensive assessment for the initial identification and redesignation of ELLs. The IPT Tests measure the competencies necessary for ELLs to function successfully in mainstream classrooms. There are two forms – A and B – of each IPT-R&W English Test. The IPT-R&W Tests have several important advantages:

1. Easy to Administer and Score.
All IPT-R&W Tests are administered and scored in the same easy, straightforward way. The IPT-R&W Tests are group administered, saving time for busy teachers and school personnel. You can score the Reading Test by hand, using the handy scoring template, or by machine, using the Scannable Answer Sheets. The first portion of the Writing Test can be scored by hand or machine scored, and the remainder of the test is scored holistically, using easy-to-follow rubrics as guidelines. Because all the IPT-R&W Tests are administered and scored the same way, once you learn how to administer one test, you will be able to administer any of the IPT-R&W Tests.

2. Untimed.
Students can take the test without time pressures. As you know, ELLs often work at very different paces, and some may need more time than others to demonstrate their reading and writing proficiencies. Average testing time is about one hour for the IPT-Reading Test and 35-40 minutes for the IPT-Writing Test.

3. Valid and Reliable.
Large numbers of students from across the United States, representing a broad range of ethnic backgrounds, socioeconomic statuses, and language abilities, were included in the pilot and field tests used to gather normative data. When administration procedures are followed exactly as prescribed, the IPT-R&W Tests provide valid and reliable assessment of students’ reading and writing abilities. For more information on test validity and reliability, consult the technical manuals.

4. Comprehensive.
The Reading Test consists of five parts to assess different domains of reading: Vocabulary, Vocabulary in Context, Reading for Understanding, Reading for Life Skills, and Language Usage. The Writing Test consists of three parts to assess different domains of writing: Conventions, Write a Story, and Write Your Own Story.

5. Provide Diagnostic and Program Planning.
The IPT-R&W Tests provide language proficiency testing data, while yielding important diagnostic information about the student. Such information, when used in conjunction with the IPT-Oral Tests, will help determine a student’s Non-, Limited, or Fluent English proficiency designation for initial identification, placement, and redesignation.

Now that you are more familiar with the advantages of the IPT-Reading & Writing Tests, you have the option of taking a Quick Quiz or moving on to the next section—Components and Areas Assessed by the Tests.