How is language proficiency assessed in schools?

Assessing English language proficiency in Calgary schools is an important part of the adaptation and learning process for newly arrived children and students entering language schools. This process helps determine initial language proficiency, select an appropriate curriculum, and provide effective support to students.

1. General approaches to assessment

In Calgary, as in other Canadian cities, English language assessment usually includes comprehensive testing covering the main language skills:

• Reading
• Writing
• Listening
• Speaking

Testing is conducted in written and oral forms, allowing for an objective assessment of language proficiency.

2. Assessment in Calgary public schools

For newly arrived children who do not speak English or have a low level of English, the Calgary Board of Education and Calgary Catholic School District offer special ESL (English as a Second Language) and EAL (English as an Additional Language) programs.

Assessment procedure

• Initial testing: After enrollment, the child takes a comprehensive language test that includes oral and written tasks.
• Level determination: Based on the test results, students are placed in appropriate ESL/EAL groups where instruction is tailored to their level of proficiency.
• Progress review: Regular reassessments are conducted to track skill improvement and transition to the general school program.

3. Assessment in Calgary language schools

Language schools such as Global Village, English Zone School, OHC English, and others offer English courses for different levels and age groups.

How is assessment carried out?

• Online or offline testing: The first day of study usually begins with a comprehensive test that includes oral, written, and audio tasks.
• Level determination according to international standards: Levels are often determined according to the CEFR scale (A1-C2), as well as IELTS, TOEFL, and TOEIC equivalents.
• Individual course selection: Based on the test results, students are placed in groups with the appropriate level or receive individual lessons.

4. International assessment standards

Calgary schools and language centers use international standards to determine English proficiency:

This helps standardize learning and allows you to compare knowledge levels with international requirements.

5. Alternative tests to confirm your level

In addition to school testing, international exam results are often accepted for admission to colleges, universities, or language programs:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
• CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
• Duolingo English Test (DET) - a new popular online test that is being accepted by more and more educational institutions in Canada[5].

6. Assessment features for newly arrived children

• Children who do not speak English take special entrance tests.
• Once their level has been determined, they are offered adapted ESL programs with a gradual transition to the main curriculum.
• Teachers regularly assess progress and adjust the curriculum.

Conclusion

Assessing English language proficiency in Calgary schools is a comprehensive process that includes written and oral tests to help determine a student's initial level. Based on the results, an individualized curriculum is developed to support effective language acquisition. International standards such as CEFR, IELTS, TOEFL, CELPIP, and the new Duolingo English Test are often used to confirm proficiency levels. This approach ensures high-quality education and successful integration of children into the Canadian education system.