preLAS

General Information

What is the preLAS?

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 (ELs) in appropriate classroom settings

•Measure the developing language of first-language learners of Spanish

•Individually administered assessment

•Takes approximately 15 minutes to administer


For more information, please visit www.LASLinks.com.

How many form(s) of the preLAS are available.

The preLAS offers two forms in English and one form in Spanish:

preLAS English Form C (paper or online)

preLAS English Form D (paper or online)

preLAS Español Form C (paper or online)

May we use preLAS for the purpose of progress monitoring at the end of the year?

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 stakeholders 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)

How long does it take students to be assessed?

  • preLAS: approximately 15 minutes per student

  • The Oral component takes approximately 10-15 minutes.

  • The Pre-Literacy component takes approximately 10 minutes.

Is there a Spanish component to the preLAS?

The preLAS Español is a separate stand alone assessment from the English form(s) of the tests.

Can the preLAS be utilized to assess 6 year olds?

Yes, The preLAS is normed with 3, 4, 5 and 6 year olds.

What scores are used to determine English learner status?

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


Who may administer the assessments?

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

Can you use paper and online assessments at the same time?

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.

Can the data from the reports be transferred into our data management system?

Yes. An export file is available via the LAS Links Interactive Reporting System. You may also purchase a Student Data File 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 contact Order Support at 800-538-9547

What is the turn around time to get results when taking the test online? Paper?

For online, 15-20 minutes from test completion to reporting

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

May we administer preLAS during the spring semester for our students?

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

Is the preLAS available online?

Yes! Please visit https://laslinks.com/prelas-online/ to learn more.