ESL

Access

Access for English Learners is an English proficiency test that measures a student's academic English-language skills and growth from one year to another. The scored report provides information in the four domains of language: reading, writing, speaking and listening. The test also provides composite scores based on the four domains: oral language, literacy, comprehension and an overall composite.

ESL Progress Report

This report shares information with parents on an English learner’s progress in academic English throughout the year. These reports are sent to parents at the end of each semester.

Cognitive Abilities Test

All HCPS students participate in a universal screening assessment in second grade. The CogAT test assesses verbal, quantitative reasoning and nonverbal skills. It is an untimed test that is administered verbally. Parents or guardians receive the student profile report in May.

The CogAT offers insight into cognitive domains not fully measured by other tests. Educators can use CogAT student-report profile information to differentiate instruction in the classroom and to identify students that have the potential to excel in content areas such as math and English language arts.

The CogAT measures students’ learned reasoning and problem-solving abilities in three areas — verbal, quantitative and nonverbal — that are most linked to school success. The CogAT reveals a broad view of student aptitudes. With this knowledge, educators can make decisions that elevate each student’s academic experience.

Additionally, this nationally normed ability test meets the Virginia Department of Education’s requirements regarding gifted identification and is used as one criterion in the gifted identification process in grades K-12.

Gifted Progress Report

The Gifted Progress Report is a cumulative reflection of student performance on instructional units taught during the semester. For additional information about specific gifted program goals by grade level, please refer to HCPS K-8 Gifted Resource Program Goals for a scope and sequence of K-8 goals.

Talent Development Response Lessons

HCPS gifted resource teachers have developed introductory talent development response lessons for all K-5 classroom teachers. Critical and creative thinking strategies are featured in each lesson, as well as 21st-century skills that extend and enrich the HCPS curriculum for all learners. Student responses to the lessons may also be used as work-sample evidence of advanced academic potential to ensure equity and increase access to advanced academic programs and the gifted identification process.

Monthly Choice Boards

Enrichment choice boards are provided to all K-5 teachers by the HCPS Gifted Programs Department as a virtual resource targeted for gifted and advanced learners, but are open to all students. These activities are leveled into three grade groups: grades K-1, 2-3 and 4-5. They center on a specific monthly theme. Four featured activities are designed to engage and challenge students.