FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What is the legislative impact of the No Child Left Behind Act on non-native speakers?

1. They must be tested in their native language

2. They may not test in their native language

3. They are exempt from all testing

4. They only receive language arts instruction

The correct answer is: They may not test in their native language

The correct answer reflects a crucial aspect of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) concerning the assessment of non-native speakers. Under NCLB, all students, including English language learners (ELLs), are required to participate in state assessments in English, even if their proficiency in the language is limited. This is designed to ensure accountability and measure the progress of schools in educating all students, regardless of their language background. While there may be provisions for accommodations, such as providing additional time or supportive tools, the act does not allow for testing non-native speakers solely in their native language for standardized assessments. This ensures that educational standards are maintained across diverse populations and that all students are being evaluated on their progress in learning English and other subjects. This act's focus on including ELLs in assessments highlights the importance of ensuring that all students, regardless of their native language, are held to the same educational expectations. Other options, such as being exempt from testing or only receiving language arts instruction, do not reflect the intent of NCLB to include all students in accountability measures.