ALCPT Handbook

 April 2013

American Language Course Placement Test HANDBOOK Defense Language Institute English Language Center Joint Base San Antonio, Lackland, TX

PREFACE This April 2013 edition of the  American Language Course Placement Test Handbook (ALCPT Handbook) contains current information about the test and its uses, as well as updated guidelines for test security, administration, scoring, and interpretation of the  ALCPT. It supersedes supersedes the previously previously published published ALCPT Handbook, Handbook, August August 2011 edition. edition. This handbook is intended as a collection of best practices  practices  employed at language testing programs of excellence. excellence.

The record-keeping record-keepi ng forms in the appendix are provided as

resources to facilitate best practices in a testing program administration.

DLIELC CONTACTS For questions about

•

Language testing: ALCPT, ECL, and OPI

•

Test security

•

 Approval of ALCPT sale

•

 Arranging Telephonic Telephonic OPIs

•

•

•

Contact

In-country (nonresident) English Language Training Programs (ELTPs) ELTP development consulting (ALC materials, ALCPT purchase after LEAT approval, site surveys, etc.) DLIELC advisors/instructors advisors/instructors for overseas assignments (MTTs)

Test & Measurement Branch (DLIELC/LEAT)

Nonresident Programs Division (DLIELC/LEN)

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Mailing address Phone/Fax/Email DLIELC/LEAT 2235 Andrews Ave JBSA Lackland, TX 782365259 Comm. Phone: (210) 671-4889 Comm. Fax: (210) 671-0211 DSN: (312) 473-4889 DSN Fax: (312) 473-0211 Email: [email protected] OPI Email: [email protected] DLIELC/LEN 2235 Andrews Ave JBSA Lackland, TX 782365259 Comm. Phone: (210) 671-3783 Comm. Fax: (210) 671-5362 DSN: (312) 473-3783 DSN Fax: (312) 473-5362 Email: [email protected]

TABLE OF CONTENTS PREFACE

.......................... ....................................... ........................... ........................... .......................... ........................... ........................... .......................... ........................... ........................... ................. .... i

...................................... ........................... ........................... .......................... ........................... ........................... .......................... ....................... .......... i DLIELC CONTACTS .........................

....................................... .......................... ........................... ........................... .......................... ................ ... 1 CHAPTER 1. TEST DESCRIPTION ..........................

 A.

PURPOSE ............................................... .............................................. ........................ 1

B.

CONTENT DESCRIPTION .............................................................................................. 1

C.

FORMAT ........................................ .............................................. ................................2

D.

TEST FORMS & K ITS ITS ....................................................................................................2

CHAPTER 2. TEST SECURITY BEST PRACTICES ......................... ....................................... ........................... ....................... .......... 3  A.

A PPOINTMENT   .................................................................3 PPOINTMENT OF TEST CONTROL OFFICER  .................................................................3

B.

PHYSICAL CONTROL OF TEST M ATERIALS ....................................................................3

C.

PREVENTION OF TEST COMPROMISE ............................................ ............................... 4

D.

PROCEDURES FOR LOST OR COMPROMISED ALCPTS .................................................... 5

........................................ ................ .. 6 CHAPTER 3. TEST ADMINISTRATION BEST PRACTICES ..........................

 A.

TESTING F ACILITIES ................................................................................................... 6

B.

 A DMINISTRATIVE   ....................................................................................... 6 DMINISTRATIVE SECURITY  .......................................................................................

C.

TEST A DMINISTRATION DMINISTRATION PROCEDURES .......................................... ............................... 8

D.

CONTINUITY BOOK  ....................................................................................................  .................................................................................................... 11

CHAPTER 4. TEST SCORING BEST PRACTICES ......................... ...................................... ........................... ........................ ..........12  A.

DOUBLE M ARKS ............................................................................. ........................... 12

B.

EY  .......................................................................................... USING THE SCORING K EY   ......................................................... ................................. 12

C.

SCORING SECURITY  ................................................................  ................................................................ ................................... 12

.................. 14 CHAPTER 5. TEST SCORES AND PROGRAMING BEST PRACTICES PRACTICES ..................

 A.

PLACEMENT .................................................................. ............................................ 14

B.

PROGRAM SIZE CONSIDERATIONS............................................... ............................... 14

C.

MIDPOINT PROGRESS .............................................. ............................................... ... 15

D.

GRADUATION R EQUIREMENT  .................................................................................... ......................... 15 EQUIREMENT ...........................................................

E.

R ELATIONSHIP ELATIONSHIP OF ALCPT AND ECL SCORES ................................ ............................. 16

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CHAPTER 6. OBTAINING THE ALCPT ......................... ...................................... ........................... ........................... .......................... .................. ..... 17 STEP 1. DLIELC/LEAT - A PPROVAL PPROVAL ................................................................................ . 17 STEP 2. DLIELC/LEN - PURCHASE ......................................................................... ......... 17  APPENDICES  APPENDICES

.......................... ........................................ ........................... .......................... ........................... ........................... .......................... ........................... ........................... .................. ..... 18

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CHAPTER 1 TEST DESCRIPTION  A. PURPOSE The American Language Course Placement Test (ALCPT) is developed by the Defense Language Institute, English Language Center (DLIELC) for military and government English Language Training Training Programs Programs around the world. It is designed to measure English ability levels levels through listening and reading. reading. ALCPTs are not   used for ECL practice or training, promotion promotion or bonus bonus systems, etc. ALCPTs are intended to be used for the following purposes only : 1. place students in an American Language Course (ALC) program; en d   2. evaluate student progress m i d w a y   and  and a t t h e en  of an ALC program;

3. screen candidates for readiness to take the English Comprehension Level (ECL) administrations per candidate –see Chapter Chapter 5); test1 (with limited administrations 4. evaluate the English language abilities of local personnel working for, or being considered for positions with, the military. The ALCPT is a U. S. government language test used for these authorized purposes only; therefore, its sale must be approved by DLIELC Test & Measurement Branch (see Chapter 6 for information on how to obtain the ALCPT).

B. CONTENT DESCRIPTION The ALCPT tests English ability through different aspects of grammar, vocabulary, listening, and reading. Grammar items include comprehension of morphological morphologica l and syntactic input, while vocabulary vocabulary items focus on semantic semantic input. Reading items include include reading comprehension. comprehension. All ALCPT forms are approximately the same difficulty level, level, and contain the same specifications and format.

1  The

ECL test is the official instrument used by the U.S. Department of Defense to determine whether the English level of IMSs considered for assignment to CONUS or overseas schools/training installations is sufficient to enter training at DLIELC or for direct entry to Military Service courses of instruction. The ECL is a strictly controlled instrument. Using the ALCPT to determine a candidate’s readiness readiness reduces exposure to the ECL and helps minimize the possibility of test compromise.

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C. FORMAT The ALCPT is a 100-item, 4-option, multiple-choice multiple-choice test. The test is divided into 2 parts, each based on the delivery delivery method. In Part I, 66 items are based on listening listening passages. Test-takers listen to audio recordings of English questions, statements, and dialogs, and then select the correct correct answer from the test test booklet. In Part II, 34 items are delivered delivered in  writing. Test-takers read English questions, statements, and paragraphs, and then select the correct answer from the same s ame test booklet.  Answers are marked on separate answer sheets. sheets. Test-takers do not mark the test booklet,  which allows reuse of the booklets and facilitates scoring.

The length of Part I is

determined by the audio recording recording (25-30 (25-30 minutes). minutes). Part II lasts 30 minutes. minutes. The entire entire test takes approximately 75 minutes, including time for reading the directions and distributing and collecting test materials.

D. TEST FORMS & K ITS ITS There are currently 40 forms of the ALCPT available for purchase (Forms 66-105), with new forms developed developed periodically. periodically. Previously available available ALCPT forms forms may still be used. If these exams have been kept secure and have been used solely for testing purposes, they should yield reliable English comprehension ability scores. 2 Each ALCPT form may be

K IT IT CONTENT

purchased individually. Each form consists of a kit with the

Item

items listed in the adjacent

1. Test Booklets 2.  Audio recording (Compact (Compact Disc) 3. Scoring keys 4.  ALCPT Handbook, with: with:

table. Quantities are limited to a maximum of 10 forms per purchase.

However,

large

language programs may be authorized to purchase more than one kit of the same form. form.

2 Scores

• • • •

•

•

Quantity

 ALC Placement Guidelines Guidelines table Memorandum for the Record sample  ALCPT Inventory Record Record sample  ALCPT Test Administration Administration Security Log sample  ALCPT Test-Taker Roster Roster sample  ALCPT Approval Request form

achieved on currently available ALCPTs do not require the use of a conversion table.

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25 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

CHAPTER 2 TEST SECURITY BEST PRACTICES This chapter outlines the best security practices of language testing programs of excellence. Current technology and ease of accessibility accessibi lity through the World Wide Web can potentially turn a local compromise compromise of an ALCPT into a global phenomenon phenomenon.. The security practices herein play a critical role in safeguarding the integrity of ALCPTs around the  world.

PPOINTMENT OF TEST CONTROL OFFICER   A. A PPOINTMENT  A Test Control Officer (TCO) (TCO) and Alternate Test Control Control Officer(s) (ATCO), (ATCO), if appropriate, should be appointed at each facility using the ALCPT TCO/ATCO appointment MFR. Only these authorized officials should control the ALCPT. (See Appendix A for a sample TCO/ATCO appointment MFR.)

B. PHYSICAL CONTROL OF TEST M ATERIALS  All ALCPT components are controlled test items and must be handled accordingly. accordingly. This includes: test booklets, audio recordings (CDs or tapes for earlier forms), scoring keys, and used answer sheets. The validity of test results depends depends on proper control and security of these materials. materials. Controlled Controlled items must be: 1. stored in a locked cabinet when not in use; 2. accounted for by serial number and inventoried at least annually by the TCO (see sample inventory form in Appendix B); 3. logged out and in each time they are used, and the log retained at for least one year (see sample security log in Appendix C); 4. handled, transported, and administered only by authorized personnel. personnel.

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C. PREVENTION OF TEST COMPROMISE One of the simplest ways to compromise any test is through inappropriate inappropriate use.  ALCPTs are NOT to be administered for practice or training purposes. The entire series of ALCPT forms can be quickly compromised compromised by administering them too frequently. frequently. If the students and/or instructors become familiar with test items, the tests become compromised, and results results are rendered rendered unreliable. unreliable.

Therefore, Therefore, compromise can be

prevented by limiting the frequency of ALCPT testing to once upon class entry and again upon class exit. If a program is six or more more months long, a mid-point mid-point ALCPT might might also  be administered administered (see Chapter Chapter 5, Part C). C).  At OCONUS sites, an effective and efficient approach is to develop and publish a schedule (e.g., the second Tuesday of each month), so candidates can register and arrange to sit for the exam. The TCO/ATCO TCO/ATCO can better track the test-takers test-takers and the test forms used, and reduce multiple multiple test administrations. administrations. At CONUS sites, such as MEPS MEPS stations or ROTC sites, testing should be consolidated as much as is feasible. Other ways to avoid test compromise include: 1. appropriate use of ALCPTs (see Chapter 1, Part A); 2. physical test security (see Chapter 2, 2, Parts A and B); 3. administrative security security (see Chapter 3, Part B); 4. scoring security security (see Chapter Chapter 4). In order to prevent potential compromise, please note: If a contractor loses the original contract for which DLIELC approved ALCPT use, that contractor is obliged to destroy all forms of the ALCPT and notify DLIELC (see contact information on page i). If ALCPTs have been compromised, DLIELC retains the right to refuse sales of new  ALCPT forms forms for a period period of up to three years. years.

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D. PROCEDURES FOR LOST OR COMPROMISED ALCPTS To preserve the global integrity of the ALCPT, it is necessary for TCOs to alert DLIELC/LEAT of the loss or possible compromise of ALCPTs, in part or whole, or of any of its components and to investigate such compromise compromise immediately. The procedures procedures are:

1. IMMEDIATE ACTIONS a. The TCO stops all testing with the test form(s) in question at once.  b. The TCO alerts DLIELC/LEAT of the situation by email or fax (see contact information on page i), and includes a summary of the compromise with any known details. The summary should also include: i. test information (for example, ALCPT form 56: booklets 19 and 22 missing, score key missing, etc.), ii. date (or probable date) of loss or compromise, iii.  verification that that all testing testing with the form in question question has been been stopped. c. Compromised ALCPT forms are withdrawn and not used for a period of one  year.

2. INVESTIGATION The TCO conducts an internal investigation and/or arranges for an investigation  by an outside agency agency to determine determine facts facts concerning concerning loss or compromise. compromise. ECORDING 3. R ECORDING

The TCO keeps the complete report of the investigation, including findings and a statement of corrective action taken, in the user agency’s Continuity Book (see Chapter 3, Part D).

 Alerting DLIELC/LEAT DLIELC/LEAT of actual or potential test compromise enables DLIELC/LEAT DLIELC/LEAT to inform other ALCPT user agencies of potential compromise compromise..

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CHAPTER 3 TEST ADMINISTRATION BEST PRACTICES This chapter outlines the best test administration practices of language testing programs of excellence.

 A. TESTING F ACILITIES  ACILITIES Testing rooms need to be well well lit, ventilated, ventilated, and quiet. A sign with a warning, such as "QUIET, TESTING IN PROGRESS," is placed on the door and in nearby areas to keep noise at a minimum. Test-takers are positioned positioned far enough from each other to ensure the integrity integrity and validity of test results.

B. A DMINISTRATIVE DMINISTRATIVE SECURITY  The following administrative steps help ensure the integrity of test results through security measures.

1. NUMBERING TEST BOOKLETS Each new test booklet is numbered upon receipt to help account for and inventory materials.

2. SELECTION OF TEST FORMS The TCO uses the same form for tests administered on the same day, and a different different form for tests administered on different different days. Doing this minimizes minimizes the likelihood of test compromise by preventing test-takers from discussing items with each other, and by limiting exposure of any specific ALCPT form. The TCO also alternates the test forms randomly, randomly, so that it is impossible to predict  which test form form will be administered administered at any given given testing session. session.

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3. INSTRUCTORS’ F AMILIARITY WITH TEST ITEMS Instructors Instructo rs must not become familiar with ALCPT test items. Knowledge of the test places instructors in the position of either teaching specific information they know to be on the test, or avoiding the subject matter entirely to prevent "teaching the test." Both of these situations situations result in test bias, unreliable unreliable test scores, scores, and compromised ALCPTs.

4. TCO, ATCO( TCO, ATCO(S), AND PROCTOR (S) The TCO is responsible for ensuring the proper administration of the ALCPT and may authorize other persons persons to be proctors proctors (who assist assist the TCO/ATCO). TCO/ATCO). In order to prevent instructors’ familiarity with test items (per Chapter 3, Part B, #3), it is strongly advised advised that instructors instructors not be appointed as ATCOs or proctors. There is one TCO/ATCO TCO/ATCO or proctor for every 15 test-takers. test-takers. TCOs/ATCOs TCOs/ATCOs (and proctors,  when available) available) observe observe test-takers continuously continuously during during the testing period. period. No one other than the test-takers and authorized testing personnel personnel is present in the testing room during the the test. When necessary, necessary, interpreters interpreters may assist test-takers test-takers with preliminary test directions; however, these interpreters must leave the room before the test begins.

5. TEST-T AKERS Test-takers do not bring anything into the testing room, and they do not leave until they have finished the test and returned all test materials . If a test-taker must leave the room before completing the test, that test-taker is not permitted to return to the test room and and finish the test. Instead, the test-taker is is scheduled for retesting retesti ng with another form of the ALCPT. The TCO/ATCO briefs all test-takers on this requirement before the test begins (see Chapter 3, Part C, #2).

6. TEST M ATERIALS In the test room(s), the TCO/ATCO gives test-takers an answer sheet, two sharpened pencils, pencils, an eraser, and a test booklet. booklet. Test booklets are checked checked before (and after) testing to ensure that all pages are intact and that there are no extraneous marks. marks. The TCO/ATCO TCO/ATCO also also checks photo IDs and and assigns seats. Testtakers are not informed of seat assignments until they report to the t est area. 7

7. H ANDLING TEST M ATERIALS  When testing is completed, the administrator collects all materials and checks all  booklets to make sure that all are accounted for and that examinees examinees have not marked the pages.

C. TEST A DMINISTRATION DMINISTRATION PROCEDURES The TCO/ATCO follows these procedures before and during the test.

1. PROCEDURES BEFORE THE TEST BEGINS The TCO/ATCO: a. logs out test materials, making sure to complete the test security log accurately;  b. prepares the answer sheets by completing the headers, or has test-takers fill in the information just before beginning the test (see #2, b, below); c. makes sure the CD player is functioning correctly, and checks to ensure the audio can be heard by all examinees. An audio recording other than that in the  ALCPT kit is used to conduct this sound check; check;3 d. instructs test-takers not to mark the test booklet in any way, and to mark only one answer for each question on the answer sheet (see #2, e, below).

2. PROCEDURES DURING THE TEST a.  At the start, the TCO/ATCO TCO/ATCO says:

Ladies and gentlemen, you are here to take an American Language Course Placement Placement Test. You must be quiet; do not talk or communicate communicate in any way during the test. If you must 3 For

sites where cassettes are still used, the TCO/ATCO is careful not to erase the cassette tape when playing or rewinding.

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leave the room before finishing the test, I will pick up your test materials, and you will not be permitted to return to the room today. You will be scheduled for a retest at a later date. If you have any questions, raise your hand and I will help you. I will hand out the answer sheets now .  b.  At this time, only only the answer answer sheets are distributed to test-takers. test-takers. i.

If the headers in the answer sheets have already been filled in, the TCO/ATCO says:

Check that the information on your answer sheet is correct.

ii.

If test-takers will be filling in the headers in their answer sheets, the TCO/ATCO instructs them at this this time on how to to do so properly. The TCO/ATCO prepares the exact wording of the instructions to ensure completeness of all needed information, and checks for accuracy of the information filled in by test-takers.

c. Each test booklet indicates the actual   duration of Parts I and II of the test. These times do not include the time required for giving instructions or handing out test materials. It is important that the TCO/ATCO follow the time limits carefully. d. Before the booklets are distributed, the TCO/ATCO says:

I will now hand you the test booklets. When you receive the test booklet, write the number of the booklet on your answer sheet. Keep the booklets closed until I tell you. e. The TCO/ATCO TCO/ATCO hands hands a test booklet to to each test-taker. test-taker. After all the test  booklets are handed handed out, s/he says:

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The test consists of two parts: ‘Part I - Listening’ and ‘Part II Reading.’ Mark one answer, A, B, C, or D for each item on your answer sheet. Make a heavy, dark mark on the letter. Make only one mark for each question. question . If you make a mistake or an extra mark, erase erase it completely. Answer each question, even if you are not sure of the correct answer. answer. Do not mark the test booklet. Mark only your answer sheet. Now open the test booklet and listen to the directions. The TCO/ATCO then starts the ALCPT audio recording.

D o n o t s t o p or or

r e p l a y a n y p o r t i o n o f i t .  Audio recordings are played only one time during

the test. Repeating any portion of it will adversely affect the validity validity and reliability of the test results. f.

The TCO/ATCO must be in the testing room at all times during the test administration. There is no talking permitted during the examination. examination. The TCO/ATCO listens and watches for any signs of attempted communication  between test-takers, such as pencil tapping or other movements.

The

TCO/ATCO must stop any suspicious behavior, for example, by standing quietly behind the suspected test-taker. test-taker. Test-takers must work independently independently..  When appropriate, appropriate, proctors proctors assist the TCO/ATCO TCO/ATCO perform perform these tasks. g.  At the end of the audio portion, the test-takers will hear a voice say, “This is the end of the Listening part of the test. ”  When Part I is finished, finished, the

TCO/ATCO says:

You may begin Part II now. You have 30 minutes to complete the test. The TCO/ATCO TCO/ATCO also posts the exact completion time in writing: writing: “The test ends at _____. ”

The TCO/ATCO may give the examinees a ten-minute

 warning and and a one-minute one-minute warning warning before the the end of the the test.

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h. Test-takers Test-tak ers who finish the test early early should raise their hands. The TCO/ATCO collects their testing materials (answer sheet, two sharpened pencils, eraser, and test booklet), and checks the test booklets before the test-taker test-ta ker leaves. The test-taker then leaves the room quietly. i.  When the allotted time is is finished, the TCO/ATCO TCO/ATCO says:

Stop. The test is over. Put your pencils down. Close the test booklets. Stay in your place until I finish collecting all the test materials.  j.

The TCO/ATCO first collects all the test booklets, and then all the answer sheets, pencils pencils and erasers. erasers. When available, available, proctors proctors assist the TCO/ATCO TCO/ATCO perform these tasks. (See Scoring Procedures in Chapter 4.)

D. CONTINUITY BOOK   A Continuity Book helps TCOs/ATCOs keep track of duties and test security measures. It also offers a source of accountability, and gives new TCOs/ATCOs the necessary resources for the successful and secure continuation of the program. program. Therefore, Therefore, Continuity Books of language testing programs of excellence might include the following: 1. Latest edition of the ALCPT Handbook 2. TCO/ATCO MFRs (see a sample form in Appendix A) 3. Test Inventory (see a sample form in Appendix B) 4. Test Administration Security Log (see a sample form in Appendix C) 5. Test Schedules 6. Test-Taker Roster (see a sample form in Appendix D) 7.  ALCPT Approval Approval Request Request form (available (available in Appendix E) E) 8.  ALCPT communications communications of importance importance 9. Reports of actual or suspected test compromise

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CHAPTER 4 TEST SCORING BEST PRACTICES This chapter outlines the best test scoring practices of language testing programs of excellence.

 A. DOUBLE M ARKS The TCO/ATCO visually scans the answer sheets to see if any items have more than one letter marked. These items are counted wrong.

B. USING THE SCORING K EY EY Each ALCPT Form has a unique scoring key. The correct answers must n o t  be marked on completed answer sheets. sheets. Doing so will will create additional answer answer keys and increase the potential for test t est compromise. The TCO/ATCO places the key over the test-taker answer sheet, making sure that they are properly aligned, then counts the number of correct responses and records the score on the answer sheet.

C. SCORING SECURITY  To help ensure that test security is maintained after testing: after testing:

1. SCORING The TCO/ATCO scores all answer sheets in a secure area with no test-takers  present . OSTER  2. TEST-T AKER R OSTER 

The TCO maintains a roster of each test administration (see sample roster in  Appendix D). D). The roster includes:

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a. examinees’ names (to identify who has taken the ALCPT, per Chapter 1, Part A)  b. date of test administration (to identify when a test was last taken, per Chapter 1, Part A and Chapter 5) c. test form (to identify the form used, per Chapter 3, Part B, sections 2 and 3) d. scores (to record progress when used as part of a language testing program, see Chapter 5) NSWER SHEETS 3.  A NSWER

Scored answer sheets that have already been logged are destroyed by shredding or  burning.

4. LOG IN M ATERIALS The TCO/ATCO ensures all materials used are accounted for and accurately records this in the test security log before returning tests to secure storage.

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CHAPTER 5 CHAPTER  5 TEST SCORES AND PROGRAMING BEST PRACTICES This chapter outlines the best programing practices of language testing programs of excellence.

 A. PLACEMENT Students can be placed at different levels in the ALC based on their ALCPT scores as well as additional information, such as records of a student's language instruction background and/or student student interviews interviews by language professionals. professionals. The  ALC Placement Guidelines table (below) provides a reference for using ALCPT scores to place students in an appropriate ALC ALC level. It does so by showing acceptable acceptable ranges of ALCPT of ALCPT Scores for Scores for each of the ALC books. In cases where a student scores 29 or below, additional information is especially critical. Since the ALCPT is a multiple-choice test, a score from 0 to 29 can be attributed to guessing and does not reliably measure a student’s English ability. In these cases,  background information of a student’s English language instruction and/or interviews by a language professional (ideally, familiar with the ALC) might be useful in determining that student’s English abilities for placement purposes.

B. PROGRAM SIZE CONSIDERATIONS Placement in an ALC will depend somewhat on situations within that particular program.  A training program that has 100 new students entering entering each week can have more classes and more precise placement than a program with only 50 new students each month.  Where precise placement is required, the ranges of  ALCPT Scores for Scores for each ALC book, the student’s background, and/or interviews by language professionals should be used.

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C. MIDPOINT PROGRESS For programs that are six or more months long, a m i d p o i n t    ALCPT  ALCPT may be administered in order to check for satisfactory progress and to verify appropriate ALC program placement. If the score from from a midpoint test is not not within the range range of ALCPT of  ALCPT Scores in the  ALC Placement Guidelines  Guidelines  table, the student’s placement should be reconsidered. Instructors’ formative assessment of the student or other types of diagnostic assessment can be used.

It is recommended recommended that the professional judgment of instructors and

program administrators be considered for placement placement of students in the correct book.

 ALC PLACEMENT GUIDELINES Book

 ALCPT Score

Book

 ALCPT Score

1 2    I    l 3   e   v 4   e    L 5

0* 0* 0* 0* - 29 0* - 29

13    I 14    I    I 15    l   e   v 16   e    L 17

49 - 53 51 - 55 53 - 57 55 - 59 57 - 61

6

0* - 29

18

59 - 63

7 8 9 10

25 - 33 29 - 37 33 - 41 37 - 45

19 20    V    I 21    l   e   v 22

61 - 65 63 - 67 65 - 69 67 - 71

11

41 - 49

23

69 - 73

12

45 - 51

24

71 - 74

   I    I    l   e   v   e    L

  e    L

Book

   V    l   e   v   e    L

   I    V    l   e   v   e    L

 ALCPT Score

25 26 27 28 29

73 - 75 74 - 76 75 - 77 76 - 78 77 - 79

30

78 - 81

31 32 33 34

79 - 82 80 - 83 81 - 84 82 - 85

* ALCPT scores of 29 or below cannot be considered valid indicators of a test-taker’s ability. See Chapter 5, Part A for placement suggestions.

EQUIREMENT D. GRADUATION R EQUIREMENT The ALCPT score required for graduation from the ALC program will depend on the English proficiency proficiency requirements requirements of the training training program each student is in. requirement requirement may vary from student to student.

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This

ELATIONSHIP OF ALCPT AND ECL SCORES E. R ELATIONSHIP The content specifications specifications of the ECL and the ALCPT are, are, by design, consistent. The two tests are generated using the same computer program based on Item Response Theory (IRT) and are statistically statist ically equivalent.

When administered administ ered under secure, controlled

conditions, the tests yield comparable scores. scores. The correlation between between uncompromised uncompromised  ALCPTs and ECLs is .95 or higher. 4

4 For

more on the reliability of the ECL and ALCPT test-generating system see: see: Henning, G. (1994).  Automated assembly of pre-equated pre-equated language proficiency tests. Language tests. Language Testing, 11(1), 11(1), 15-28.

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CHAPTER 6 OBTAINING THE ALCPT DLIELC is the sole source for procurement for all ALCPT materials. There are two steps in ordering ALCPT materials:

Step 1. DLIELC/LEAT - Approval  All requests for the purchase of ALCPT materials must be screened screened and approved by DLIELC Test & Measurement Branch (LEAT). Organizations Organizat ions interested in purchasing the  ALCPT must complete an “ALCPT Approval Request” form, found in Appendix E and available online at: http://dlielc.edu/Testing/ALCPT_reqfrm.pdf. Submit the completed “ALCPT Approval Request” form to DLIELC/LEAT by email at [email protected] [email protected],, or through the contact information on page i of this Handbook.

Step 2. DLIELC/LEN - Purchase Contact DLIELC Nonresident Programs Division (LEN) for consultation on purchase orders (see contact information on page i). Procedures for purchase orders orders of the ALCPT are also included in the current catalog of ALC materials. Information is provided provided on IMET programming and IMET requisitions, as well as on direct requisitioning from DLIELC and on FMS-funded purchases.

The catalog

is available online at

http://dlielc.edu/catalog/DLIELC%20Catalog_1.pdf .. 5 http://dlielc.edu/catalog/DLIELC%20Catalog_1.pdf 

5 

For a hard copy of the catalog, contact the Logistics Branch (LESL) by email at [email protected] or by phone at DSN 473-4711 (FAX 473-3063) or commercial 210671-4711 (FAX 210-671-3063). 17

 APPENDICES  Appendix A. Sample TCO/ATCO appointing Memorandum for Record  Appendix B.  ALCPT Inventory Inventory Record Record sample  Appendix C. Test Administration Security Log sample  Appendix D. Test-Taker Roster sample s ample  Appendix E.  ALCPT Approval Approval Request Request form

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MEMORANDUM FOR RECORD SUBJECT:

Appointment of American Language Course Placement Test (ALCPT) Test Control Officer (TCO) and Alternate Test Control Officer (ATCO)

REF: American Language Course Placement Test Handbook (latest issue) 1. The following personnel are appointed subject duties IAW reference, effective _______________, ________ _______, and until officially relieved or released from appointment. Signatures below signify that the appointee has read and understood the ALCPT Handbook and agrees to follow its provisions.

TCO (print or type name)

RANK and SERVICE (grade and title, if civilian)

E-MAIL ADDRESS

SIGNATURE

ATCO (print or type name)

RANK and SERVICE (grade and title, if civilian)

E-MAIL ADDRESS

SIGNATURE

ATCO (print or type name)

RANK and SERVICE (grade and title, if civilian)

E-MAIL ADDRESS

SIGNATURE

ATCO (print or type name)

 _____ RANK and SERVICE (grade and title, if civilian)

E-MAIL ADDRESS

SIGNATURE

2. Appointments above supersede those of the previous TCO/ATCOs (provide names):

3.

Please retain for your records and for inspection purposes. (Do not send to DLIELC.)

Signature of Appointing Official

 ________________________  ________________________ Date

 Name/Rank/Title  Name/Rank/Title of Appointing Appointing Official Official (typed (typed or printed) printed)

 ________________________  ________________________ E-mail Address Address

DEFENSE LANGUAGE INSTITUTE ENGLISH LANGUAGE CENTER  ALCPT INVENTORY RECORD RECORD INVENTORY  Date

Initial or  Annual?

TEST FORM (e.g., 52)

BOOKLET NUMBER  From

To

UDIO R ECORDING ECORDING A UDIO

CD Number

Quantity

EY  SCORING K EY 

Number

Quantity

Page

Used  Answer Sheets Destroyed

TCO/ATCO who did the inventory

( if ‘yes’)

DEFENSE LANGUAGE INSTITUTE ENGLISH LANGUAGE CENTER  ALCPT TEST ADMINISTRATION ADMINISTRATION SECURITY LOG Test Form (e.g., 52)

Booklet Number From

To

CD Number

 Answer Key Number

Number of TestTakers

OUT Test Date

of

Time Checked OUT

TCO/ATCO  Administering Test

Page

of 

IN Time Checked IN

TCO/ATCO  Administering Test

DEFENSE LANGUAGE INSTITUTE ENGLISH LANGUAGE CENTER  ALCPT TEST ADMINISTRATION ADMINISTRATION SECURITY LOG Test Form (e.g., 52)

Booklet Number From

CD Number

To

 Answer Key Number

Number of TestTakers

OUT Test Date

Time Checked OUT

(e.g., 52)

Booklet Number

Test Date

Rank

Name (Last, First, MI)

of 

IN

TCO/ATCO  Administering Test

Time Checked IN

DEFENSE LANGUAGE INSTITUTE ENGLISH LANGUAGE CENTER   ALCPT TEST TAKER ROSTER Test Form

Page

ID Number

TCO/ATCO  Administering Test

Page

Raw Score

 of 

Disposition

DEFENSE LANGUAGE INSTITUTE ENGLISH LANGUAGE CENTER   ALCPT TEST TAKER ROSTER Test Form (e.g., 52)

Booklet Number

Test Date

Rank

ID Number

Name (Last, First, MI)

Page

Raw Score

 of 

Disposition

ALCPT Approval Request Approval by DLIELC/LEAT (DLI Testing) is required

BEFORE  placing  placing

a purchase order.

User Agreement User agrees to:  Maintain all ALCPT materials secured at all times:  Stored in a locked cabinet;  Accounted for by serial number and inventoried annually;  Logged after each use & the log retained for a year;  Handled, transported & administered ONLY  by authorized personnel.  Use the test for the following purposes ONLY:  Place students in an ALC language program;  Evaluate student progress midway  and  and at the end of the program;  Screen candidates for readiness to take the ECL;  Evaluate the English language abilities of local personnel working for, or being considered for positions with, the military.

 

Prevent duplication (paper, electronic or other) of ALCPT materials. Abide by all provisions of the ALCPT Handbook, including limits on test frequency, proper test rotation, and tracking candidates who are tested.

User agrees that:  If a contractor loses the original contract for which DLIELC/LEAT approved ALCPT use, the contractor is obliged to destroy all forms of the ALCPT.  If ALCPTs have been compromised, DLIELC retains the right to refuse sales of new ALCPT forms for a period of up to 3 years.

Failure to abide by these guidelines gui delines may result in denial of future ALCPT purchases.

Contact Information Date:  ______________  __________________ ____

ALCPT Approval Request Approval by DLIELC/LEAT (DLI Testing) is required

BEFORE  placing  placing

a purchase order.

User Agreement User agrees to:  Maintain all ALCPT materials secured at all times:  Stored in a locked cabinet;  Accounted for by serial number and inventoried annually;  Logged after each use & the log retained for a year;  Handled, transported & administered ONLY  by authorized personnel.  Use the test for the following purposes ONLY:  Place students in an ALC language program;  Evaluate student progress midway  and  and at the end of the program;  Screen candidates for readiness to take the ECL;  Evaluate the English language abilities of local personnel working for, or being considered for positions with, the military.

 

Prevent duplication (paper, electronic or other) of ALCPT materials. Abide by all provisions of the ALCPT Handbook, including limits on test frequency, proper test rotation, and tracking candidates who are tested.

User agrees that:  If a contractor loses the original contract for which DLIELC/LEAT approved ALCPT use, the contractor is obliged to destroy all forms of the ALCPT.  If ALCPTs have been compromised, DLIELC retains the right to refuse sales of new ALCPT forms for a period of up to 3 years.

Failure to abide by these guidelines gui delines may result in denial of future ALCPT purchases.

Contact Information Date:  ______________  __________________ ____ Purchasing organization:  ______________  _____________________ ______________ ________________ ____________ ___ Country: Country: ______________ ______________ Point of contact:  ______________  _____________________ ______________ ______________ ____________ _____ Email/phone/(DSN if applicable):  ______________  _____________________ ______________ ______________ ____________ _____

Test Program Information Organization/schoolhouse administering & storing the tests:  ______________  _____________________ ______________ ______________ ___________ ____ (if different from purchaser ) City:  ______________  _____________________ ______________ ______________ ___________ ____ State/Region: __________ __________ ALCPT test control officer (TCO):  ______________  _____________________ ______________ ______________ ___________ ____ Email/phone/(DSN if applicable):  ______________  _____________________ ______________ ______________ ___________ ____ Test security measures in place:  ______________  _____________________ ______________ ______________ ___________ ____ Number of sessions per year:  ______________  __________________ ____

Max. number tested per session: session: __________ __________

Number of test rooms:  ______________  __________________ ____

Seating capacity per room: room: __________ __________

Request Information Purpose for ALCPT testing:  ______________  _____________________ ______________ ______________ ___________ ____ ALCPT Forms (versions) owned: owned:  ______________  _____________________ ______________ ______________ ___________ ____ ALCPT Forms requested  (  (max. 10):  _______________  __________________ ___

For Office Use Only: AP __

APW __

DA __

Number of kits requested : __________

Submit to [email protected]