Frequently Asked Questions
What is BEST Literacy used to measure?
BEST Literacy tests reading and writing skills in authentic situations specifically geared for adult English language learners in the United States.
What types of questions are on BEST Literacy?
Test items include reading dates on a calendar, addressing an envelope,writing a check, reading a schedule, writing personal information, reading articles and other documents, and writing a short personal note.
What proficiency levels does BEST Literacy assess?
BEST Literacy measures reading and writing skills and correlates to Student Performance Levels (SPL) 0 to 8 and the National Reporting System (NRS) Educational Function Levels from Beginning ESL Literacy to Advanced ESL.
Is training required to administer BEST Literacy?
CAL does not require BEST Literacy training however BEST Literacy test administrators and scorers must read and review the BEST Literacy Test Manual before and after administering the test. In addition, individual states and programs may have their own training requirements in order to administer BEST Literacy.
What technology do I need to use BEST Literacy?
BEST Literacy does not require the use of computers.
How do I get started using BEST Literacy?
To get started using BEST Literacy, you will need to know how many students you will be pre- and posttesting to determine the number of test packets to order. Test booklets and corresponding scoring sheets are sold in packets of 20 per form (B, C, and D). You will also need to order enough copies of the Test Manual for your test administrators and scorers to read and review before and after testing. Next, you will want to contact your state’s professional development office or coordinator to find out if the state requires BEST Literacy training. Lastly, you’ll need to place your order for test booklets and Test Manuals which are available for purchase online through the CAL Store using a credit card or you can download an order form and include it with a purchase order or check and mail them to:
Center for Applied Linguistics
P.O. Box 418564
Boston, MA 02241-8564
Please allow one business day for processing. Signed copies of purchase orders must be received by CAL for all orders before we will ship your order.
If you would like sample copies of BEST Literacy to review before deciding to use it as your assessment tool, please send us an email.
Do the students write in the BEST Literacy test booklets?
Yes. The students will write their answers in the test booklets. Test booklets are consumable and cannot be photocopied or reused.
Where do I find the BEST Literacy score sheets?
A total of 20 corresponding score sheets are included with each shrink-wrapped packet of 20 test booklets.
