1. TASC Accommodations Training
2/9/2018
TASC Accommodations Training
Copyright © 2013 by CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC. This publication or portions thereof may not be reproduced and distributed. The TASC logo and Test Assessing Secondary Completion are trademarks of McGraw-Hill Education. All other brands and product names found in this publication are the property of their respective owners and are not associated with the publisher of this publication.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

2. Agenda Test accommodations overview Types of Accommodations
Allowable resources
Spanish version
Alternate formats
Special testing accommodations
How to execute accommodations during testing
CBT
PBT

3. Accommodations and Resources Overview
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Accommodations and Resources Overview
CTB/McGraw-Hill supports the intent of the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 and is committed to supporting access to the TASC for individuals with disabilities
To this end, the TASC design includes accessible formats and allowable resources that are available to all examinees
In addition, examinees with documented need may apply for special testing accommodations
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

4. 2/9/2018
Types of Supports
Examinees have access to three types of support during TASC testing:
Allowable resources:
No formal approval is required for the use of these resources
In some cases a prior notification form must be filled out and provided to the testing center at the time of scheduling so that the testing center can accommodate the request
Special Testing Accommodations:
The examinee must request the use of these accommodations and formal approval from the CTB/McGraw-Hill TASC Accommodations Administrator is required prior to test administration
Special testing accommodations are intended to account for the effects of a person’s disability on assessment results
Let’s look at the distinctions between allowable resources, special testing accommodations and alternate formats.  
Let’s begin with Allowable resources:
No formal approval required for use of these resources.
Some allowable resources do call for prior notification so that the testing center can accommodate the request with necessary resources.
Special Testing Accommodations:
All special testing accommodations on the other hand, require that the examinee submit a request and receive formal approval for use via the TASC Special Testing Accommodations approval process.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

5. Types of Supports (continued)
2/9/2018
Types of Supports (continued)
Alternate Formats:
TASC is available in English and Spanish in alternate formats including Braille and large print editions
To receive alternate formats, the examinee must provide prior notification to the testing center
A Prior Notification Form is available for download on the TASC website at
Prior Notification Form: Whether Allowable Resources or Alternate Formats
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

6. Subject Areas TASC assesses five subject areas: Language Arts: Reading
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Subject Areas
TASC assesses five subject areas:
Language Arts: Reading
Language Arts: Writing
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

7. Allowable Resources 2/9/2018
There are a number of allowable resources in the form of test administration procedures and materials that an examinee may use if needed.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

8. Allowable Resources Allowable resources:
2/9/2018
Allowable Resources
Allowable resources:
Tools, procedures, and materials that an examinee may use to support test taking
Allowable resources include items such as earplugs, magnifying glasses, or seat cushions
No formal approval is required for the use of allowable resources
In some cases a notification form must be filled out and provided to the testing center prior to testing so that the testing center can prepare to support the request
A summary of allowable resources and the Prior Notification Form are available for download on the TASC website at
TASC Examinees should submit the Prior Notification Form to the Test Coordinator at the TASC Testing Center at the time they schedule or register for testing
Some of these resources are items (such as earplugs, magnifying glasses, or seat cushions) that the examinee may bring into the testing room are subject to inspection by the examiner. Examiners should ensure that such items do not contain the answers to test questions or provide examinees with the means to record, copy, or otherwise remove test questions from the testing room.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

9. 2/9/2018
Test Formats
Three TASC forms are available each year in English and Spanish in CBT and PBT
Forms A, B and C
Alternate formats:
Large print
Braille (2 forms only each in English and Spanish)
Audio
Large print and Braille require prior notification
Audio requires prior approval
The English and Spanish tests are available in several formats with the English answer sheet is gray, Spanish answer sheet is green
Both English and Spanish include standard, large print, and Braille editions of the tests in each of the five subject areas. Although there are only 2 forms for Braille, examinees may take Form A again after 6 months (ie Take Form A, wait 2 months to retest, take Form B, wait 4 months, and then take Form A again)
These Alternate Formats are included in the Allowable Resource category with prior notification will be made available by the testing center.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

10. Allowable tools, procedures, and materials
2/9/2018
Allowable tools, procedures, and materials
Tool/Material
Paper-Based Test (PBT)
Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Blank Place Markers
Scratch paper, which is provided by the testing center as part of the standard TASC administration, may be used as a place-marker tool on the PBT. Prior notification is not required.
Mark for Later Review is a navigation feature that is part of the standard CBT administration.
Prior notification is not required.
Cushion
The TASC examinee may bring a seat cushion.
Prior notification is not required. The examinee is required to bring the cushion.
Prior notification is not required. The examinee is required to bring the cushion.
Highlighter
Highlighters are not permitted on the PBT. No markings may be made on the PBT because the same test booklets are used for multiple examinees.
A highlighter tool is available as part of standard CBT administration.
Following is a list of allowable tools, procedures, and materials that individual examinees may be accustomed to using to support test taking in various ways such as to flag important points, maintain focus, facilitate reading and/or interaction with testing materials, attain physical comfort, etc. Any such resources that the examinee brings to the testing center are subject to inspection by the examiner.
The allowable resources, i.e., optional test administration procedures and materials, are not considered special testing accommodations, and, with few exceptions, their use during the TASC administration is not recorded on the examinee’s answer document. 
Highlighter- not available so that books can be reused
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

11. Paper-Based Test (PBT) Computer-Based Test (CBT)
2/9/2018
Tool/Material
Paper-Based Test (PBT)
Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Colored Scratch Paper
Scratch paper is provided during testing by the testing center as part of standard test administration. All scratch paper is collected and destroyed at the conclusion of testing. Examinees may request lined paper or graph paper.
Prior notification is not required.
Scratch paper is provided during testing by the testing center as part of standard test administration. All scratch paper is collected and destroyed at the conclusion of testing. Examinees may request lined paper or graph paper.
Eraser
Each TASC examinee is permitted to bring, or will be provided with, sharpened number 2 pencils and an eraser as part of standard test administration.
A digital eraser is available as part of standard CBT administration.
Option Eliminator
Scratch paper, which is provided by the testing center as part of the standard TASC administration, may serve as an option eliminator on the PBT.
An option eliminator is available as part of standard CBT administration.
Pencils and erasers – examinees will have their own; however, test sites should have extras available as back-up
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

12. Paper-Based Test (PBT) Computer-Based Test (CBT)
2/9/2018
Tool/Material
Paper-Based Test (PBT)
Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Blocking Ruler
Scratch paper, which is provided by the testing center as part of the standard TASC administration, may be used in lieu of a blocking ruler on the PBT.
Prior notification is not required.
In the TASC CBT, a blocking ruler is available as part of standard administration.
Formula Sheet
TASC examinees will be provided access to a formula sheet as part of standard test administration where applicable.
A formula sheet is available as part of standard CBT administration conditions where applicable.
Colored Overlays
An examinee may use tinted clear plastic overlays over pages in the test booklet.
Prior notification is not required. The examinee is required to bring the overlays.
The CBT has configurable settings for background color, font color and font size.
Prior notification is required. The administrator must change system settings to support the examinee’s request.
Formula Sheet:
Large Print version - yes
Braille version - yes
In the case of an Audio CD – the Formula Sheet comes with the print version of the book, so examinees will have the reference sheet that came with the test
Large print answer sheet - NOT AVAILABLE 12
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

13. Paper-Based Test (PBT) Computer-Based Test (CBT)
2/9/2018
Tool/Material
Paper-Based Test (PBT)
Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Noise Reduction
The examinee may use earplugs to reduce background noise. The examinee will need to provide his or her own such device and make it available to the Examiner for inspection prior to testing.
Prior notification is not required. The examinee is required to bring the device and earplugs.
In the CBT, an auditory calming tool is available. Earphones must be requested from the test center in advance.
Prior notification is required. The administrator must change system settings to support the examinee’s request.
Magnifying Device
An examinee may use handheld magnifiers, eyeglass-mounted magnifiers, freestanding magnifiers, or magnifying overlays, to enlarge text and graphics.
Prior notification is not required. The examinee is required to bring the device.
A digital magnifying glass is available in the CBT.
Straightedge
The TASC examinee may use scratch paper provided by the test center to aid in spatial orientation and reading.
Prior notification is not required.
A masking ruler tool is available in the CBT.
Magnification
A large‐print edition (PBT) is available upon request.
Prior notification is required.
Large font is available on the CBT. 13
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

14. CBT Allowable Resources
2/9/2018
CBT Allowable Resources
For computer-based features that are available as allowable resources, the Test Coordinator may need to change system settings in order to provide for the system functionality that will enable examinee use
The examinee should provide prior notification to the testing center for those features to be made available
Just to reinforce that some CBT allowable resources require:
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

15. Special Testing Accommodations

16. Special Testing Accommodations
2/9/2018
Special Testing Accommodations
Special testing accommodations:
Only provided to examinees with appropriate documentation diagnosing their disability or disorder and supporting the need for the recommended accommodation
An examinee may only receive a special testing accommodation if he or she has submitted a TASC Special Testing Accommodations Request Form to be formally approved by a CTB/McGraw-Hill TASC Accommodations Administrator
The request form must contain accommodations recommendations from a physician, psychiatrist, or other appropriately licensed professional
In these cases, examinees may only receive the accommodation(s) that have been specifically approved
Special testing accommodations, such as extra time, are intended to account for the effects of a person’s disability.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

17. Accommodations Process
2/9/2018
Accommodations Process
Test Coordinators and examinees will receive notification from TASC Accommodations Administrators as to the specific accommodations approved
Examiners will receive instructions from the Test Coordinator as to which accommodations to provide to a particular examinee
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

18. Special Testing Accommodations: Alternate Presentations
2/9/2018
Special Testing Accommodations: Alternate Presentations
Accommodation Category
Accommodation Details
PBT
CBT
Description
Alternate Presentation
Audio CD of Subject-area Tests
YES
An audio CD presentation of TASC Math, Science, Social Studies, Reading and Writing is available in English and Spanish. A CD player is required and should be provided by the test center.
DVD of Signed Version of Test Instructions
A DVD of signed instructions in American Sign Language is available to examinees. A DVD player and appropriate viewing device is required. A DVD player should be provided by the test center.
Screen Reader (CBT)
The TASC CBT has screen reader functionality. The examinee activates the reader by positioning the cursor on the text and clicking.
Following is a list of special testing accommodations. Special testing accommodations require formal approval prior to use.
CD player – must be provided by test center
DVD player – provided by Test Center
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

19. Special Testing Accommodations: Breaks
Accommodation Category
Accommodation Details
PBT
CBT
Description
Breaks
Supervised Breaks
YES
Both the PBT and the CBT can be administered with supervised breaks. The CBT can be paused for up to 20 minutes to accommodate a break.
Multiple Sessions
The TASC PBT can be administered over multiple sessions. The coordinator will store the assessment in a locked cabinet between sessions. The examinee must be supervised during breaks.

20. Special Testing Accommodations: Calculator
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Special Testing Accommodations: Calculator
Accommodation Category
Accommodation Details
PBT
CBT
Description
Calculator
Calculator Memory Function
YES
The memory function of a calculator can be used to support working memory. In these cases, it is expected that the examinee knows how to use this feature and has experience with this accommodation.
Talking Calculator
An examinee with visual impairments or print disability may receive approval to use a talking calculator during testing.
CTB will provide Talking Calculators when requested. Center will return to CTB when testing completed
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

21. Special Testing Accommodations: Duration
2/9/2018
Special Testing Accommodations: Duration
Accommodation Category
Accommodation Details
PBT
CBT
Description
Duration
1.25 Times Standard Testing Time
YES
Extended testing time is an accommodation that is provided at 1.25 (1 ¼) times the standard administration time. This duration is available only for the PBT.
1.50 Times Standard Testing Time
Extended testing time is an accommodation that is provided at 1.5 (1 ½) times the standard administration time. This duration is available for both the PBT and the CBT.
Twice the Standard Testing Time
Extended testing time is an accommodation that is provided at 2.0 (2) times the standard administration time. This duration is available only for the PBT.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

22. Special Testing Accommodations: Physical Support
Accommodation Category
Accommodation Details
PBT
CBT
Description
Physical Support
Preferential Seating Location
YES
Preferential seating refers to seating in a location that supports the examinee’s testing experience. Preferential seating may be free from distractions, have special lighting conditions, have extra desk space for large materials, (large-print or Braille materials), etc.
Adaptive Equipment
Assistive technology (PBT only), pencil grips, etc.
Adaptive Furniture
Adjustable height desks, cushioned furniture, wheel chair friendly desk, chairs with armrests, etc.
Other
Other physical support accommodations may be approved based on the examinee’s particular needs.

23. Special Testing Accommodations: Scribe
Accommodation Category
Accommodation Details
PBT
CBT
Description
Scribe
Point or Dictate Answers
YES
A scribe may be provided for the PBT. The scribe must be qualified, have appropriate training, and follow specified guidelines.
For the Writing Test

24. Special Testing Accommodations: Technology Device
Accommodation Category
Accommodation Details
PBT
CBT
Description
Technology Device
Technology-assisted Writing
YES
Technology-assisted writing is an accommodation when the following features are disengaged: formatting, spell check, and grammar check.
Assistive Technology Device
Examinees may use personal assistive technology devices. However, all assessment content must be deleted from the device following testing.

25. Special Testing Accommodations: Separate Room
Accommodation Category
Accommodation Details
PBT
CBT
Description
Separate Room
YES
An examinee may be tested in a separate location with a qualified examiner present.

26. Special Testing Accommodations: Small Group Setting
Accommodation Category
Accommodation Details
PBT
CBT
Description
Small Group Setting
YES
An examinee may be tested in a small group setting with a qualified examiner present.

27. Special Testing Accommodations: Other
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Special Testing Accommodations: Other
Accommodation Category
Accommodation Details
PBT
CBT
Description
Other
To be described in the Request Form
YES
Accommodations not otherwise listed may be approved based on the Evaluator’s recommendation and the Examinee’s particular needs. Special arrangements may be required to support such accommodations and not all testing centers may be able to provide all approved accommodations.
Other – per recommendation of the professional evaluator
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

28. Special Testing Accommodations Request Form

29. Applying for Special Testing Accommodations
To apply for Special Testing Accommodations for the TASC, the request form should be completed by the TASC Examinee (with the support of an Advocate, if desired) and by a licensed professional Evaluator
The Examinee should deliver the completed form to the TASC Test Coordinator at the local testing site for processing and verification
Once verified, the request form is to be submitted to CTB/McGraw-Hill’s TASC Accommodations Administrator for review and approval

30. Request Form The request form has four sections:
Sections 1, 2, and 3 must be completed prior to the request being sent to the CTB/McGraw-Hill TASC Accommodations Administrator for review
Section
is completed by the… 1
Examinee 2
Evaluator (a licensed professional who can diagnose the Examinee’s disability and recommend appropriate accommodations) 3
TASC Test Coordinator at the Examinee’s local TASC Testing Center 4
CTB/McGraw-Hill TASC Accommodations Administrator

31. Steps to complete accommodations request
The Examinee completes Section 1 (with the support of an Advocate, if desired)
The Evaluator completes Section 2 and provides supporting documentation in the form of an Evaluation Report
The Examinee provides the request form to the TASC Test Coordinator at the local testing center
The TASC Test Coordinator and Examinee review Sections 1 and 2 for completeness
If Sections 1 and 2 are deemed complete, the TASC Test Coordinator completes Section 3

32. 2/9/2018
Steps (continued)
The Examinee sends the request form and supporting documentation, such as the Evaluation Report, to the CTB/McGraw-Hill TASC Accommodations Administrator for review
The TASC Accommodations Administrator reviews the request form, makes an approval decision, and mails the decision letter to the Examinee and local testing center
After the request form has been submitted to the TASC Accommodations Administrator, the Examinee can or call between 7:30 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Eastern time for questions about the status of a request
CTB will process and send decision letters within 30 working days of the receipt of request forms.
Copyright © 2013 CTB/McGraw-Hill LLC.

33. Final thoughts…

34. Documentation
The following additional important documents, available on the TASC website at will help the Examinee and Evaluator prepare the request form for submission:
Overview of TASC Accommodations
TASC Allowable Resources and Prior Notification Form
TASC Special Testing Accommodations Descriptions
Examinee Guidelines for Requesting TASC Special Testing Accommodations
Evaluator Guidelines for Requesting TASC Special Testing Accommodations
TASC Special Testing Accommodations Approval Criteria

35. Customer Support TASC Technical Support TASC_HelpDesk@ctb.com
Toll Free: (888)
Hours: 7:30am – 8pm EST

36. Questions/Comments?
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