Teachers’ FAQs about the new CASAS STEPS

Pearson Languages
A teacher standing in front of others with a tablet smiling
Reading time: 4 minutes

Back in July 2024, the CASAS test was updated to become the CASAS STEPS (Student Test of English Progress and Success). In our previous blog posts, we discussed some of the reasons for the change, we covered acronyms every Adult ESOL teacher should learn, and this week we are answering frequently asked questions regarding the new assessment.

1. What is the timeline for the CASAS STEPS implementation?

The new test has been available since 2023 and was fully implemented nationwide on July 1, 2024. The CASAS STEPS is approved by OCTAE for NRS reporting through July 2030.

2. How is the STEPS series different from the previous series?

The CASAS STEPS assessments contain more rigorous questions and provide shorter testing times. Both Reading and Listening STEPS now have five levels, measuring academic vocabulary and higher-order thinking skills contained in the ELP Standards. Note that the test form numbers have also changed, ranging from 621R-630R and 621L-630L.

3. What is the STEPS scale score range in relation to NRS levels?

The new test levels are A-E, with two alternate forms for each level. The STEPS levels correspond to NRS levels 1-6. Each STEPS level overlaps with two - and only two - NRS levels, so there is no chance of a level 1 (beginning ESL literacy) student accidentally testing into a level 5 (high intermediate) class.

4. How many questions are there and how long is each test?

Reading: Locator (15 minutes); Level A (33 items, 30 minutes); Level B (36 items, 50 minutes); Levels C-E: (36 items, 75 minutes).
Listening: Locator (15 minutes); Level A (33 items, 28 minutes); Level B (36 items, 45 minutes); Level C (39 items, 52 minutes); Level D (39 items, 56 minutes); Level E (39 items, 38 minutes).

5. Can we pretest with the Life and Work series while transitioning to the STEPS series?

No, agencies cannot pretest students on the Life and Work series and post-test on the STEPS series. It is essential that pre- and post-testing always occurs within the same series to ensure test reliability and validity.

6. What are the STEPS competency areas?

Basic communication, consumer economics, community resources, health, employment, and government and law (new for test levels D and E).

7. What task areas does each test contain?

The Reading STEPS contains four task areas: 1. Forms; 2. Charts, tables, and graphs; 3. Texts, emails, articles, and narratives; 4. Signs, ads, and labels. The following ELPS skills are assessed: vocabulary, details, main idea, inference, point of view, and supporting evidence.

The Listening STEPS contains five task areas: vocabulary, details, dialogue, main idea, and summary. The following ELPS skills are assessed: retell key details, continue conversation, identify the main topic, and summarize.

8. How can I prepare my students for the new test?

Pearson offers a wide selection of educational material to prepare you and your students for the new CASAS STEPS. Our FUTURE series is completely aligned with the new test format, with lesson prep tips, notes and examples for teachers, templates, study guides, test overviews, printed and digital test practices, answer sheets, and the integrated online platform MyEnglishLab.

What other questions do you have?

Click here to download a printable version of the charts and tables, to browse our textbook selection, including our FUTURE Series. If your program is not yet using the series, or if you’d like tutorials and tips as a current user, click here. Follow along on social media and share this post with your fellow teachers and administrators.

References

Reading STEPS for ESL Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Unlock your students' potential for success on CASAS® STEPS with FUTURE

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