preLAS Identification Program Requirements
What is the preLAS?
The preLAS is language proficiency assessment consisting of an Oral Language component in English and Spanish for preK3-, preK4-, and Kindergarten students. Test results are used to:
•Identify and place English Language Learners (EL’s) in appropriate classroom settings
•Measure the developing language of first-language learners of Spanish
•Individually administered assessment
•Takes approximately 15 minutes to administer
What form(s) of the preLAS do we administer for the purpose of English learner identification?
preLAS English Form C (paper or online)
preLAS Español Form C (paper or online) – if you have a bilingual program (see Chapter 89 for more information)
May we use preLAS for the purpose of progress monitoring at the end of the year?
Yes, preLAS Form D is a great option as it:
- Is on the same scale as Form C allowing you to compare linked data points (as opposed to utilizing a different assessment that doesn’t link to the preLAS data you acquired with Identification testing)
- Has the same flow, format and rubric as preLAS Form C with different items so no new training is required
- Provides an expected gains study written by the preLAS authors allow LEAs to analyze the data to determine if sufficient/expected growth has been made since the initial data point/identification of the student (available upon request)
- Is available online via the INSIGHT portal (so no new technology needed)
How long does it take students to be assessed?
- preLAS: approximately 15 minutes per student
- The speaking and listening domains take approximately 10-15 minutes each. The reading and writing domains take approximately 35-45 minutes each. Keep in mind, online administration of the assessment allows you to group administer all domains, including Speaking.
Is there a Spanish component to the preLAS?
The preLAS Español is a separate stand alone assessment from the English form(s) of the tests which must be administered for the purpose of English learner identification IF your LEA has a bilingual program.
Can the preLAS be utilized to assess 6 year olds?
Yes if the 6 year old is a Kindergartner. If they are in First Grade (or going into First Grade) they must be given LAS Links.
What scores are used to determine English learner status?
- For preLAS (preK3-K), if a student receives an Oral score of 1, 2 or 3, they are to be considered an English learner.
- For LAS Links (2-12), if a student receives a proficiency level of 1, 2 or 3 in any of the 4 domains (Speaking, Listening, Reading and/or Writing) they are to be considered an English learner.
Are we required to assess all parts of the assessment for identification purposes?
Per the TEA:
- preK3-K should be administered the preLAS Oral assessment (parts 1-5)
- *preLAS Español should be administered if your LEA provides a bilingual program
Who may administer the assessments?
This is a local decision however, preLAS should be administered by professionals or paraprofessionals who are proficient in the language of the test.
Can you use paper and online assessments at the same time?
Yes, you may use both paper and online assessments at the same time but it is recommended that a single student be tested either fully online or fully on paper.
Can the data from the reports be transferred into our data management system?
Yes. You may purchase a Student Data File (available for both preLAS Online and LAS Links Online) which is provided nightly via the INSIGHT portal. This export of your online test data can be imported into any data management system. For pricing, please utilize the “Additional Services” order form found at www.laslinks.com/Texas.
What is the turn around time to get results when taking the test online? Paper?
For online,
- 30-60 from test completion to reporting
- For paper, you will tabulate scores immediately following the completion of the test.
May we administer the preLAS during the spring semester for our PK students to use for EOY LPACs?
Yes! preLAS Form D is a perfect option for this use.
Is the preLAS available online?
Yes! Click HERE for more information.