IPT Online
Our IPT Online service has been discontinued. If you need English language proficiency screening support, please contact Jen Madison.
What?
The IPT (Idea Proficiency Test) is one assessment that can be used for language proficiency screening in Nebraska. This test includes the four language domains (reading, writing, speaking, and listening) and provides an indication of language fluency. Please note that this service is for materials only; school personnel must administer the test.
Test Materials
Grades K-1
Oral Test Pictures Book, Grades K-6, Form G (must be returned to ESU 4)
Reading & Writing Examiner's Manual (must be returned to ESU 4)
Writing Test Booklet (consumable)
Reading Test Booklet (consumable)
Access to Online Reading & Writing and Oral Tests
Grades 2-5
Oral Test Pictures Book, Grades K-6, Form G (must be returned to ESU 4)
Access to Online Reading & Writing and Oral Tests
Grades 6-12
Oral Test Pictures Book, Grades 6-12, Form E (must be returned to ESU 4)
Access to Online Reading & Writing and Oral Tests
Why?
Nebraska Rule 15 requires the use of this kind of assessment when the results of the Home Language Survey Questions indicate a student speaks a language other than English. The IPT provides useful information about a student's level of language proficiency to inform instruction and LEP programming.
How Much?
The cost is $20 per student battery (i.e., Oral, Reading & Writing). For example, if you need to test a third grade student, the cost will be $20 total for the student. This includes the oral, reading, and writing components, as well as the postage necessary to get print copies to you. Since Title III cannot be used for assessment costs, your fee will help maintain this service (i.e., update IPT materials and purchase additional online tests as necessary). As the fiscal agent, ESU 4 will bill your district. Please note that invoices will be sent in November, March, and June.
How?
To obtain the assessment for one or more students, contact Jen Madison (jmadison@esu4.net or 402.274.4354).
Provide the required information to Jen.
District Name
Examiner
First and Last Name
Phone Number
Email
School Address (for sending print materials)
Student
First and Last Name
Birthdate (required for scoring accuracy)
Unique ID (e.g., district or state ID)
Gender
Ethnicity
Primary Language
Grade
The examiner will receive an email providing further instructions as well as the necessary print materials via postal mail.
Your district will be billed by ESU 4 for $20 per student battery (Oral, Reading & Writing Components).
Prepare the examiner as necessary:
Administer the test(s), access, print, and file reports locally. Don't forget to code the student correctly in ADVISER and notify the parents of program placement.
Return non-consumable print materials to ESU 4 as soon as possible.
Questions?
Jen Madison, ESU 4: jmadison@esu4.net or 402.274.4354
Ballard & Tighe IPT Helpdesk: http://www.bt-helpdesk.com/ipt/index.php
IPT Updates
These updates are sent to Jen from Ballard & Tighe via email.
Project History
In the spring of 2014, three Nebraska ESUs (4, 5, and 6) collaborated for the initial purchase of the Ballard & Tighe Online IPT for use by regional districts. Prior to this, ESU 6 maintained a set of IPT materials for schools to borrow; however, these materials were out of date, and Title III funding was no longer available for assessment expenses. ESU 4 agreed to initiate and manage the new system, and the ESU Administrators agreed, so the project was born! In the fall of 2015, ESU 9 contributed to the project, which allowed the purchase of an additional set of materials. The project was dissolved in spring 2021, as the ELPA21 Screener was firmly established as the tool supported by NDE and IPT need waned.
Other Options
If the IPT isn't your best option, you might consider other available English language proficiency screening tools:
LAS LINKS: Contact Theresa Ritta-Olson at ESU 10 to access the materials. If your district is in the ESU 9 region, Laura Ochsner may be able to help you administer the assessment.
ELPA21 Screener: This assessment is available free to Nebraska districts. Contact NDE or check their website: https://www.education.ne.gov/natlorigin/elpa21-assessment/