Study Guide

Field 177: English as a Second Language (ESL) 
Test Design and Framework

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The test design below describes general assessment information. The framework that follows is a detailed outline that explains the knowledge and skills that this test measures.

Test Design

Test overview, including duration of test, number of questions, and passing score.
Format Computer-based test ( C B T ) and online proctored test
Number of Questions 80 selected-response questions and 1 constructed-response assignment
Time* 4 hours
Passing Score 240

*Does not include 15-minute  C B T  tutorial

Test Framework

pie chart of subarea weighting, as described in the table below
test weighting by number of questions per subarea part 1 of 2.
subareas range of competencies approximate percentage of test
selected-response
roman numeral 1 language and language learning 0001–0002 12 percent
roman numeral 2 culture 0003–0004 12 percent
roman numeral 3 planning, implementing, and managing E S L instruction 0005–0009 37 percent
roman numeral 4 assessment 0010–0011 12 percent
roman numeral 5 professionalism 0012–0013 12 percent
this cell intentionally left blank 85 percent
test weighting by number of questions per subarea part 2 of 2.
Subareas Range of Competencies Approximate Percentage of Test
Constructed-Response
roman numeral 6 analysis and application 0014 15 percent

Subarea roman numeral 1–Language and Language Learning

Competency 0001–Apply knowledge of the fundamentals of linguistics as related to the development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing for social and academic purposes in English.

 start italics The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency. end italics 

Competency 0002–Apply knowledge of current theories of and variables that can affect new-language acquisition and literacy development.

 start italics The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency. end italics 

Subarea roman numeral 2–Culture

Competency 0003–Analyze major concepts, principles, theories, and research related to the nature of culture, cultural processes, and the role of culture in language development and learning.

 start italics The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency. end italics 

Competency 0004–Apply knowledge of diverse cultural groups, sociocultural variables that can affect English language learners' language development and learning, and teaching strategies that are sensitive to the needs of students from diverse cultural groups.

 start italics The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency. end italics 

Subarea roman numeral 3–Planning, Implementing, and Managing ESL Instruction

Competency 0005–Apply knowledge of concepts, research, and best practices related to planning, managing, and implementing standards-based language and content instruction for English language learners.

 start italics The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency. end italics 

Competency 0006–Apply knowledge of concepts, research, and best practices related to promoting English language learners' vocabulary development and their understanding and usage of standard English conventions when listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

 start italics The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency. end italics 

Competency 0007–Apply knowledge of concepts, research, and best practices related to promoting English language learners' oral language development.

 start italics The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency. end italics 

Competency 0008–Apply knowledge of concepts, research, and best practices related to promoting English language learners' literacy development.

 start italics The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency. end italics 

Competency 0009–Apply knowledge of concepts, research, and best practices related to promoting English language learners' development of content-area knowledge and skills.

 start italics The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency. end italics 

Subarea roman numeral 4–Assessment

Competency 0010–Apply knowledge of various concepts and issues related to assessing English language learners, including different types of assessments used in ESL programs and their purposes, uses, and limitations.

 start italics The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency. end italics 

Competency 0011–Apply knowledge of how to select and use various language and content-area assessments; analyze and interpret assessment results; and use this information to inform, evaluate, and modify instruction for English language learners.

 start italics The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency. end italics 

Subarea roman numeral 5–Professionalism

Competency 0012–Apply knowledge of the historical and research foundations of ESL programs, pursuing professional growth opportunities in the field of ESL, and serving as a professional ESL resource to colleagues.

 start italics The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency. end italics 

Competency 0013–Apply knowledge of how to serve as a resource liaison and advocate for English language learners and how to build effective partnerships with families and the community to support student learning and achievement.

 start italics The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency. end italics 

Subarea roman numeral 6–Analysis and Application

Competency 0014–Analyze and interpret formal and informal assessments and anecdotal evidence to identify trends in the strengths and needs of a small group of English language learners and apply knowledge of English language learners, language and literacy development, and research- and evidence-based practices to design a lesson that effectively addresses individual students' needs.

 start italics The following topics are examples of content that may be covered under this competency. end italics