ONPAR Science Test Overview

ONPAR Science provides students with a more linguistically appropriate assessment tool, allowing ELLs to better demonstrate their science ability.

Lacking the English vocabulary and composition skills of native speakers, English language learners who possess science content knowledge are significantly disadvantaged when confronted with a traditional science test.

ONPAR exploits computer technology to gauge student performance in ways that surpass the limits of paper and pencil. Traditional item types with heavy English reading loads are exchanged for more innovative item types that utilize dynamic properties and user interactions, while preserving the cognitive complexity and science content of conventional tests.

The ONPAR test features the following components:

Students are introduced to ONPAR with a brief and informative interactive tutorial. Much like the instructions that preface a written test, the tutorial walks students through the various procedures associated with the test and accustoms them to the different item types that they will experience. Unlike traditional instructions, the ONPAR tutorial is independently controlled by each student, allowing them to explore the program at their own paces.

The computerized ONPAR science test is not an accommodation of an existing test, but rather it is a separate yet parallel assessment, based on its own blueprint and specifications. It is aligned to both content standards and regular large-scale state assessments.

The ONPAR items are developed to mimic the performance-indicating qualities of general multiple-choice and constructed-response items, using different approaches that more appropriately address the needs of the ELL population.

The ONPAR test does not attempt to advantage ELL students over students in the general population, but instead aims to give them the same chances to prove their understanding of science.