The English Language Proficiency Assessments for California (ELPAC) exam plays a crucial role in assessing the language proficiency of English Learner (EL) students in California. Teachers, as key stakeholders in a student’s academic journey, have a significant impact on students’ success in the ELPAC exam. Here are three essential ways in which teachers can provide effective support to students preparing for and taking the ELPAC exam, backed by research and examples.

1. Cultivating a Language-Rich Environment
Research consistently underscores the importance of a language-rich environment in supporting language development among EL students. Teachers play a pivotal role in creating an atmosphere that fosters language acquisition, enabling students to develop the language skills necessary for success in the ELPAC exam.

One way teachers can achieve this is by integrating language learning into everyday classroom activities across subjects. For example, a science lesson can involve discussions, writing assignments, and presentations in English, providing students with opportunities to practice and enhance their language skills. According to a study published in the Journal of Research in Reading (Lesaux & Siegel, 2003), integrating language learning into content instruction improves language proficiency among EL students.

Additionally, teachers can encourage peer interactions through collaborative learning strategies. Pairing EL students with proficient English speakers promotes language exchange and enhances students’ speaking and listening skills, which are crucial components of the ELPAC exam.

2. Implementing Targeted Language Instruction
To address the specific language domains assessed in the ELPAC exam—listening, speaking, reading, and writing—teachers should provide targeted language instruction aligned with the exam’s content and proficiency levels.

For instance, research conducted by Rivera and Collum (2006) highlights the effectiveness of explicit vocabulary instruction in improving reading comprehension among EL students. Teachers can incorporate vocabulary-building activities into their lessons, such as word walls, interactive games, and context-rich reading materials, to enhance students’ ability to comprehend written English.

Moreover, integrating technology tools that focus on language skills, such as language learning apps and interactive online resources, can engage students in meaningful language practice outside the classroom. Such activities not only align with the ELPAC exam objectives but also cater to diverse learning styles, ensuring a more comprehensive language development approach.

3. Providing Formative Feedback and Individualized Support
Formative assessment and timely feedback are crucial components of effective language instruction. Teachers should implement ongoing assessments that mirror the format and content of the ELPAC exam, allowing students to become familiar with the assessment structure and expectations.

Research by Black and Wiliam (1998) emphasizes the impact of formative assessment on student learning outcomes. Regular feedback helps identify specific areas of improvement, allowing teachers to tailor instruction to individual student needs. This individualized support can be further enhanced through one-on-one conferences, peer review sessions, and targeted interventions.

Additionally, teachers should leverage diagnostic tools to identify linguistic strengths and weaknesses among EL students. By understanding each student’s unique language profile, teachers can develop personalized strategies to address specific challenges, ensuring more effective ELPAC preparation.

As with all state testing, teachers play a pivotal role in supporting EL students as they prepare for the ELPAC exam. Cultivating a language-rich environment, implementing targeted language instruction, and providing formative feedback and individualized support are essential strategies to enhance students’ language proficiency and success on the exam. By integrating these approaches into their teaching practices, educators can contribute significantly to the academic achievement of English Learners in California.