TABE Out-of-Range Scores

April 2011

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Objectives

• Address the issues surrounding Out-of-Range TABE scores

• Answer questions submitted by providers

• Provide updated information from McGraw-Hill

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FAQ-How do I prevent out-of-range scores on the pre-test?

Make sure a student is taking the appropriate level TABE. Here’s why:

• To best inform instruction• To ensure the best diagnostic• To maximize student progression toward goals• To minimize re-testing by preventing out-of-

range scores• To place in appropriate NRS level

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FAQ-How do I choose the appropriate level TABE?

Use information gleaned from orientation and the Locator along with professional judgment to determine the appropriate level of the TABE to administer.

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Getting to know the student

Orientation Tips:

• Discuss academic, career and work experienceo Washington 13

http://www.kyae.ky.gov/NR/rdonlyres/994A1E33-E8DF-4AF8-B534-008D892C5F10/0/Washington13.pdf

o Develop your own questionnaireo Power Path Screenings*

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Choosing the Appropriate Level Test

Locator = Levels E, M, D or A

Word List = Level L

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FAQ- How do I get the most accurate results from the Locator?

• Tell students not to guess at an answer

• Administer in a proctored and timed environment

• Be cognizant of behavior and mental and physical well being

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Cut Score Results

Some programs have discovered making slight adjustments to the Locator cut scores may result in more accurate placement. One example is

Modified Applied Mathematics• 4-6 TABE Level E• 7-8 TABE Level M

• 9-13*TABE Level D• 14-16* TABE Level A

*Modified range

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Other Cut Score Suggestions

Consider:• Using additional questions or teacher-made

quiz• Adjusting for scores that occur at the low end

of each range of scores• Using professional judgment to ensure

proper test selection for each student

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FAQ- Can I use the 7&8 Locator with the 9&10 TABE tests?

YES.

TABE representatives have assured KYAE that the 7&8 Locator may be used in conjunction with the 9&10 tests.

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FAQ– What if a student takes the “wrong level” of TABE?

Repeat initial assessment with correct TABE level (whole test or individual subject area(s), as needed)

Example: Locator student should take TABE D in all areas, BUT 9D results Math Scale Score 438

Since 438 is out of range for the TABE D, then Math subtest score/info is not accurate. Student should be re-tested on the TABE M for Math. TABE D math score should NOT be used as the enrollment score.

It is important that the lowest area be accurate.

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TABE Levels/Content Ranges

L 0.0 – 1.9 Literacy

E 2.0 – 3.9 Easy

M 4.0 – 5.9 Medium

D 6.0 – 8.9 Difficult

A 9.0 – 12.9 Advanced (These “cut points” refer to the student “score” point at which you

should consider shifting from one level of the test to another.)

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Out of Range Scores

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FAQ- How do I prevent out-of-range scores on the progress test?

For consistent problems with out-of-range scores on progress tests consider these three factors:

1.Was the student’s pre-test score in the lower, middle or high range of that level?

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FAQ- How do I prevent out-of-range scores on the progress test?

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FAQ- How do I prevent out-of-range scores on the progress test?

3. How do you determine when a student is ready for a progress test?

• Hours of attendance• Use of formative assessments

• Mastery of all content measured by the assessment

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Questions??????

If you have a specific question regarding TABE testing, please direct it to KYAE staff.