Ask the Experts

When deciding about whether it is appropriate to use accommodations on a test, it is important to consider the purpose of the test. The purpose of screening is to determine which students might be at risk for poor outcomes in a specific academic area. The goal is to create a quick sorting of students into "at-risk" and "not at-risk" categories. This quick sorting is then followed by further assessment of the students initially identified as "at-risk" to a) confirm the screening results and b) determine the extent and nature of the student's difficulties so that appropriate interventions can be provided.

Because the purpose of the test is to determine who might be at risk for poor outcomes, providing accommodations (such as extended time or reading the items) to students would likely invalidate the screening results. However, accommodations that allow physical access to the test (e.g. large print versions for students with visual impairments) would be appropriate.