ONPAR Science Test Overview

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

The Obtaining Necessary Parity and Academic Rigor (ONPAR) assessment has been designed for ELLs in the early stages of English language acquisition. It is a computer-based test that utilizes features such as graphic illustrations and animations to convey information, and allows students to respond to test items using features such as drag-and-drop and model-building capabilities. These computerized mechanisms lower the linguistic barriers posed by traditional paper-and-pencil assessments. 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 content of items on conventional tests.

Versions of ONPAR have been developed to assess mathematics and science skills. The mathematics assessment covers content standards in grades 4 and 7 and the science assessment covers content standards in grades 4 and 8. Both assessments use the same onscreen design, computer interface and similar item types.

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.