How do testing accommodations affect the comparability of Assessment Series scores?

Testing accommodations cover a wide range of changes to how a test is administered but do not include any changes to test content.

Some accommodations are considered universal testing supports and can be used by all students in accordance with school policies. These supports include but are not limited to:

• Extended time
• Breaks during testing
• Use of scratch paper
• Use of embedded highlighter and notepad tools

Other accommodations, such as reading aloud test content, are only allowed if specified on a student’s IEP or 504 plan. Additional research is needed to determine how much, if any, impact different accommodations have on Assessment Series scores. However, these plans have been carefully created by educators who have determined that such accommodations are appropriate, so required accommodations should be implemented.

Teachers and administrators can still use Assessment Series scores in many ways, with the knowledge that the scores should be interpreted in light of the accommodations provided. Some accommodations can retain score comparability, while others may change how student reading comprehension is measured and, therefore, require more cautious interpretation. As with any assessment, educators should use data from multiple sources (e.g., assignments, projects, observations) when evaluating students or programs.

Changes that impact test content (texts, questions, answer options, etc.) are considered modifications that are not appropriate or allowed for any standardized assessment, including the Assessment Series. For more information on modifications, please refer to this FAQ.

If you have additional questions, please refer to the Assessment Series Administration Guide or reach out to your team’s CommonLit Representative or Account Manager.