Student CASAS Testing Requirements and Information FAQs

Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment System (CASAS) Testing

1. Why do I need to take CASAS tests?
   • This is a requirement for each student at FACE.
   • Reporting CASAS Student Test Benchmarks (achievements) and EL Civics units passed helps keep the school funded each year. This is how the school stays free.
2. What test modality should I take? Test Modalities: Reading or Listening
   • The two most common CASAS test modalities are Reading and Listening.
   • Your teacher usually decides which test your class will take.
   • Core M-TH ESL classes usually take Reading tests. Higher level classes may also require Listening tests.
   • Friday Class students may take either or both CASAS Reading and Listening paired tests.
   • Fri Intermediate Communication class usually takes a B Level Test 983 or 984 CASAS Listening test.  
   • Most students start with 983L as the PRE test.  Later, taking a 984L would be the POST test. The other way around (984/983L) is also okay. Both tests together make a PAIRED test.
3. What are the test levels? Test level examples: A level => B level => C level => D level
   • Reading levels: Lowest A level 81R/82R => B level 83R/84R => C level 85R/86R => D level 187R/188R) Highest
   • Listening levels: Lowest A level 981L/982 L => B level 983 L/984 L => C level 985 L/986 L => No D level Listening test. C level is highest.
4. When do I take the test?
   • CASAS Testing is usually done the first two weeks of school, again each quarter, after as needed, and at the end of the school year.
   • CASAS tests needs to be taken in the first week or two of starting a class, usually AFTER class.
   • Students will also take a second test later towards the end of each quarter or school year.
   • New students or students joining a class from the waiting list must be CASAS tested immediately.
5. Where do I take my CASAS tests?
   • Placement tests are taken during the registration process. Sometimes the first CASAS level test will be given at that time.
   • Once you start attending a class, be prepared to stay after class and test in the classroom or in Room 9 by arrangement.
6. How many tests do I need to take?
   • You only need to take ONE reading/listening pre test or ONE reading/listening post test in a class. You do not need to take more tests even if you have more than one class.
   • Field Testing is an experiment and does not count toward your benchmarks. Field testing is test of the test.
7. How long does a CASAS test take?
   • The Reading test time is maximum 1 hour.
   • The Listening test time is usually a little less time – about 45-51 minutes.
   • Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes earlier and stay about 5-10 minutes after each test.
   • The test administrator needs time to verify each test or else mistakes will be made.
   • Be patient. Testing is complicated.
8. How many times do I need to take the tests?
   • A pre (entry) and post (exit) CASAS Test is REQUIRED for every student until completing one benchmark, the end of the school year, or the student leaves the school.
9. When do I get my test results?

• • Your teacher will usually get your test scores to you as soon as they can.
  • Please keep track of the tests you take with each teacher on a Tracking Form or in your notebook..
  • Write CASAS test form number #s, dates, and scores FOR ALL of your classes on a CASAS Tracking Form.
  • If asked, please share the CASAS Tracking Forms with teachers to make sure your tests are valid.
  • This system is not perfect and mistakes can be made.

10. How can I interpret the test results to help me improve?

• • Your teacher can go over the test results with the class.
  • Charts may be shared in the class.
  • CASAS test score information is just one data point to be considered toward your future goals. Focus on your lower skill(s) to make them stronger.

11. What are paired tests?

• • Paired tests are two different tests, but at the same level (A, B, C, D)
    • Paired (Pre/Post) Test examples: Form Numbers # 83R/84R, 85R/86R, 985L/986L are paired tests.
  • You need at least two paired tests (Pre/Post) of the same level and modality (reading or listening) to count, but NOT the same form number.
    
    • Incorrect paired testing: Do not take an 83R and then another 83R. The 2^nd test will not count. Do not take the same test form number as a paired test.
    • Correct paired testing: Reading Modality Test Form #s 83R & 84R are paired tests at the same B Test Level and must be taken as Pre/Post Tests. (e.g. If 83R pre-test => then 84R post-test).

13. What happens if I cannot stay and take a test with my class?

• • You will need to arrange with the class aide or ESL office when you are able to come and take the test.  
  • Please do this at the beginning of class when an aide is present.
  • Or by arrangement in the test center @ 11:45 - 12:45 (approximately - see times below.) 

14. What if I need to leave the school before the class test?
    • You can take the test earlier.
    • Notify your teacher at least 1 week in advance before leaving the school so you can complete the required testing that helps pay for your school tuition.

15. Where is the testing Center and when is it open?

• Testing is available M-F at the Test Center in Room 9 (Fri open to 1:30): Students (three at a time) are scheduled in 15 minute increments. Check schedules around holidays. You will need schedule a specific day/time, to start your test such as:
  • 11:45 am
  • 12:00 pm
  • 12:15 pm
  • 12:30 pm
  • 4:30 pm
  • 4:45 pm
  • 5:00 pm
  • 5:15 pm

16. Can I test from home?

• • Some remote testing is also available. 
  • Please speak with the Class Aide - early in the morning. She is with us from 9-10:15am on Fridays.