Preschool Language Proficiency Screener

3-5-year-olds • Head Start • Preschool • Pre-K • Transitional K
Each child is unique and their success depends on creating the optimal learning environment.
The Pre-IPT English & Spanish language assessments provide diagnostic reports on a child’s language skills– an essential component in program planning and tailoring instruction to support the development of students’ proficiency in a second language.
Pre- and post-testing allow for progress monitoring of language skills and program effectiveness.

English & Spanish language proficiency

Identify dual language learners so teachers can provide extra support in proficiency development. Pre-IPT diagnostic reports inform teachers on how to provide individualized scaffolds to accelerate students’ language proficiency development and strengthen their skills in preparation for literacy development in the second language.


Tens of thousands of preschoolers are tested annually with the Pre-IPT. Find out why.

Boston Public Schools, MA - Early Childhood Program

Boston Public Schools has been using the Pre-IPT as an English language proficiency screener for our 3-year-olds since 2015. The test results help our teachers plan for language instruction. Teachers find the test easy to administer. - Winnie Moy, Data & Assessment Specialist

Knox County Head Start, TN

A 3-star quality rating head start program testing over 200 students annually with Pre-IPT English since 2014.

“The Pre-IPT tells us each child’s language ability which enables our teachers to create individualized instructional strategies. Our teachers use this information in the classroom daily to scaffold for English learners. The paper dolls and game board make kids think they are playing a game when being tested; it’s fun for them.” - Cathy Speck, Dual Language Learner Coordinator

HOW IT WORKS


Test language: English or Spanish
Ages: 3-5 years
Time per student: 10-15 minutes
Administration
The Pre-IPT centers around a story, giving young students a low-anxiety testing experience in which to demonstrate their language abilities. The examiner interacts verbally with each child using the story board and pieces.

Scoring
  • Paper-based or Online scoring
  • Immediate results for placement
  • Stopping rules ensure students only test up to their level
  • Proficiency Levels and Designations
    • Proficiency Levels: Beginning, Early Intermediate, Intermediate, Early Advanced, and Advanced
    • Designations: Non-, Limited, and Fluent
  • Standardized scores (scaled scores, percentiles, NCEs) are included to serve those who prefer these types of scores

WHAT IT SHOWS

Diagnostic Reports (Online administration only)
  • Comprehensive assessment of interactive listening and speaking skills—assesses vocabulary, comprehension, syntax, and verbal expression
  • Assesses BICS and CALP
  • Diagnostic profile to evaluate students’ strengths and weaknesses
  • Easy to read reports summarize child’s language profile
  • Parent letters explaining testing process and scoring
Use the reports to tailor instruction
  • Student “can-do” descriptors
  • Record of test items
  • Relative strengths and weaknesses in seven diagnostic dimensions

WHY IT WORKS

Valid & Reliable
  • Written and normed according to American Psychological Association (APA) standards
  • Up-to-date norms reflect current population of test-takers
  • Aligned to TESOL standards