English Language Proficiency Tests

SLATE
SLATE stands for Secondary Level Assessment Test of English. This is a test that
is used to assess the English proficiency of the international students entering
Fairmont Private Schools. Their scores help us to place them in the appropriate
level class. The SLATE is an exam that takes about an hour and a half to complete.
It is taken on a computer via the internet in a secure testing environment. The test
is comprised of 5 sections: reading, writing, listening, speaking, and grammar.
Students are tested with a variety of ability questions to get an overall sense of
their language proficiency. This test is also great, because the results provide
teachers with areas of strength and weakness for each student. This helps teachers
to individualize instruction and help students in areas where they really need
assistance.

ISEPA
ISEPA stands for International Student English Proficiency Assessment. This is a
test that was created by the ESL Specialist at Fairmont. This test is given to the
students at the start of the school year in a quiet test environment. This is a paper
and pencil test. It is also considered in the placement of students. This test is
comprised of reading, writing, vocabulary, and comprehension. It is very similar
to our curriculum style. It provides us with a clearer idea of how students will
perform during the impending school year.