What this means for the student:

Although students aren't permitted access to definitions, the use of glossaries to aid in translations of words can be beneficial to help make connections between English and their native language for support in comprehension and written responses.

What this means for the student:

This accommodation may ease students' nerves while taking an exam because they can compare/translate unknown words in the directions or texts in English and their native language to help them better understand.

What this means for the student:

This accommodation may clarify any language barriers in translation and will ensure students truly understand the directions or a passage on an exam by hearing them in their home language.

What does this mean for the student:

A separate location for students may take away the pressure of other students finishing early and eliminate any distractions so students can focus on their test.

Time Extension. Schools may extend the test time for ELLs/MLLs. Principals may use any reasonable extensions, such as “time and a half” (the required testing time plus half that amount), in accordance with their best judgment about the needs of the ELLs/MLLs. Principals should consult with each student’s classroom teacher in making these determinations.

Next-Day Completion of Testing. ELLs/MLLs who have been granted the accommodation of extended time and are scheduled to take two Regents Examinations on the same day may be approved by the school principal for the accommodation of Next-Day Completion of a Regents Examination. If Next-Day Completion is approved by the school principal, the student must complete the entire morning examination and at least the first part (Part 1 or Part A) of the afternoon examination on the date the Department scheduled the administration of those examinations. The student must then complete the remainder of the afternoon examination on the next school day.

What does this mean for the student:

This accommodation is beneficial for MLs because they can take their time and focus on doing their best on their test, rather than worrying about finishing quickly. Taking an assessment in a new language requires more processing and increases cognitive thinking, which in return takes more time even if the student understands the material.

What does this mean for the student:

Students have the opportunity to show case their knowledge and writing skills by providing their answer in their native language. This may give the student more confidence and encouragement to give it their all on the exam.