Latest Information and Updates:
TRC Para Pro Curriculum Correlation to the TABE Test
Frequently Asked Questions:
If you have any questions not addressed in this list, please email us at joan@scwrc.org.
How do we schedule classes? Scheduling should be worked out between the local school district and the adult education program provider.
How do we respond to those TA’s who are very angry about taking this test? You will need to serve as a counselor to many of them as they prepare for the test. Strong reinforcement of their abilities is crucial. Use some of the motivational techniques found in our adult learner section on this website.
Will students need to memorize math formulas? No
May I use this curriculum in my regular adult ed classes and in the regular K-12 classrooms? Yes. You may use this curriculum in other classes as appropriate.
How many questions are on the ETS and Work Keys tests? An overview of each test is found in the Test Taking Strategies module of your Instructor’s Guide.
Are the tests divided into sections and if so, how? Yes, each assessment is divided into the three academic areas of Math, Reading and Writing.
How long does each test last? The ETS test allows 2 ½ hours; Work Keys is divided into three individual assessments, but the time frame is approximately the same or just slightly less.
May a parapro take the test if she feels she is ready without taking the pre-test (TABE)? The Test Preparation project is purely optional.
How is the curriculum developed by the TRC correlated to the ETS? The curriculum directly addresses each of the skills identified by ETS for inclusion on the test.
How do I get and keep participants? Closely working with your school district’s HR or No Child Left Behind contact is the best way to encourage and maintain participation. For motivational strategies see our section on this website about adult learners.
What is the cost of each test and who pays? The cost of the ETS is $40; Work Keys assessments will cost $25, if administered through Adult Education. Unless a school district has agreed to pay for testing for incumbent paraprofessionals, the cost is the responsibility of the individual taking the test.
How do we determine participants who may have learning disabilities? Given the short time frame for test preparation, you might first want to rely on the individual to advise you of learning difficulties they are aware of. Those students remaining with you for a long period of time may be further assessed for disabilities.
How long do we have to complete the project? The time frame for the project is open-ended.
How should my topics be arranged when teaching the TRC curriculum? The TABE profile on each student should determine the areas you want to emphasize.
How much will the teachers be paid? This is a local district determination.
How will the tests accommodate students with special needs? Currently, the only accommodations are found when taking the test at an existing Praxis Center. The issue is being addressed further, however.
If a district decides to use ETS, will adult ed centers still be responsible for giving the computerized work keys test? The test option should remain with the individual paraprofessional, but this issue has not been fully resolved.
How many total hours of training are in the TRC curriculum? The training time will vary with the needs and skills of the classes. A suggested time frame is found in the introduction section of your Instructor’s Guide.
How do I accommodate the different ability levels within each class? Some programs are grouping students according to the needs identified on the TABE assessment/profile.
How many people are expected to go through the adult ed parapro project in South Carolina? It’s unclear, however, there are over 4,000 Title I paraprofessionals in our state.
How are the tests scored? If Internet testing is used, the scoring is instantly provided. However, formal documentation is received later.
If a para pro does not know the answer to a question should she skip it? ETS recommends guessing.
What is the best schedule for teaching? How often and for how long? This should be determined locally.
What is on the writing part of the test? Is there an essay? Will there be examples of writing? There is no essay. The TRC identifies the skills that are tested.
What are some teaching strategies to use with the parapros? See our section on teaching strategies on our website..
Will other groups (besides parapros) be required to take the test? No.
Will training for parapros be on going or will passing the test be the end for them? Local training requirements are always an option; however, the No Child Left Behind legislation requires either passing the test or completing one of the other two qualifiers.
Will testing continue after 2006 for those that want to be a parapro but do not have the necessary hours of credit? Yes, the law currently applies to all new hires, as well.
09/30/2005