preLAS Identification Program Requirements

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

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)

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)

• preLAS: approximately 15 minutes per student

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. 

Yes if the 6 year old is a Kindergartener.  If they are in First Grade (or going into First Grade) they must be given LAS Links. 

• For preLAS (preK3-K), if a student receives an Oral score of 1, 2 or 3, they are to be considered an English learner.

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

 This is a local decision however, preLAS should be administered by professionals or paraprofessionals who are proficient in the language of the test. 

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.

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. 

For online, 

• 30-60 from test completion to reporting

For paper, you will tabulate scores immediately following the completion of the test.

Yes!  preLAS Form D is a perfect option for this use.

Yes!  Click HERE for more information.

Best practices dictate that a student's parent(s)/guardian(s) should NOT be present when assessing the student.   If a student is upset because of the separation, if you can, give the student a few days to acclimate to their new environment and then attempt to test the student.