Proficiency Testing
STAMP Testing
Proficiency testing begins in 5th grade of the Mandarin Immersion Program and is conducted annually at the end of each year. The purpose of this assessment is for teachers to collect data, modify instruction and improve our program and students’ language learning. Proficiency is tested across four skill areas of listening, speaking, reading and writing using the Avant Standards-based Measurement of Proficiency (STAMP) 4SE test for 5th & 6th graders and STAMP 4S test for 7th grade and above. The test is adaptive and engages students with real-world content. All testing is done online under proctored conditions and can take a total of two hours. Individual scoring is provided along with an explanation and suggestions for areas of improvement.
Skill ratings are assigned according to the ACTFL Performance Descriptors for Language Learners as low, mid, or high within the levels of Novice, Intermediate, or Advanced. The target level for 5th grade MIP students has been set at Novice-High (or N4) for all skills, with expected progressive improvements following each year to the next level through STAMP testing. The majority of our students fall in N4 or above in listening and speaking. For reading and writing, the majority of our students fall in N3 or above. Please visit the STAMP website page to learn more about the STAMP 4SE and STAMP 4S tests.
Skill ratings are assigned according to the ACTFL Performance Descriptors for Language Learners as low, mid, or high within the levels of Novice, Intermediate, or Advanced. The target level for 5th grade MIP students has been set at Novice-High (or N4) for all skills, with expected progressive improvements following each year to the next level through STAMP testing. The majority of our students fall in N4 or above in listening and speaking. For reading and writing, the majority of our students fall in N3 or above. Please visit the STAMP website page to learn more about the STAMP 4SE and STAMP 4S tests.
