1st - Convert Raw Scores to Scale Scores

Count the number of correct answers in the learner's test to get the 'Raw Score'. Each test form has a chart that shows how the 'Raw Score' of that test corresponds to the 'Scale Score'.

Below is an example of how the Raw Score corresponds with its Scale Score for Form 83 R (CASAS' Life and Work Reading Test - Level B for ESL).

An example of how the Raw Score corresponds with its Scale Score for Form 83 R (CASAS' Life and Work Reading Test - Level B for ESL).

Inaccurate scores are marked with an asterisk and don't have scale scores. These scores cannot be used for pre-or post-testing

Conservative estimate scale scores are provided for test takers that perform very well on a test.

2nd - Find the Scale Score's corresponding 'Educational Functioning Levels' or 'CASAS Skill Levels'.

Different tests have different Scale Score Ranges, so ABE/ASE tests are not the same as ESL tests. Although the Educational Functioning Levels and CASAS Levels have similar names and letters, the descriptions will be different for ESL tests and ABE/ASE tests. Below contain side by side comparisons of the Scale Score Ranges for different CASAS tests.

3rd - Consider the Level Descriptors for your learners' Educational Functioning Level

Upon identifying the Educational Functioning Level of your learner(s), use CASAS' Level Descriptors to get a general idea your learner's skills to inform your instruction. Now you can use their level to search for level appropriate content and to consider scaffolding strategies for activities and tasks in your lessons. In the next page, we will examine ways to look deeper an individual learner's skills and competencies from their CASAS test outcomes.

Note: scores from a Reading test might not accurately describe the learner's listening skills, and vice versa.

CASAS-ELL-Level-Descriptors.pdf