Avant Stamp

Chaldean Language Assessment

By CN Staff

High school students in our state are required to meet the Michigan Merit Curriculum guidelines for graduation, which includes 2 credits in a language other than English. Most students meet this requirement though formal coursework, but it is possible to “test out” by demonstrating proficiency on a commercialized assessment.

The Chaldean Community Foundation has collaborated with Avant Assessment to create a Chaldean speaking test, which provides the opportunity for our children to earn high school credit and the Michigan Seal of Biliteracy for Chaldean (Sureth). If any school requests a Chaldean language test, CCF can support and provide testing for them.

For the first time, there will be data on how well students are progressing in their study and acquisition of the Chaldean language. The Avant STAMP (STAndards-based Measurement of Proficiency) assessment can be given at any time along the learning path to measure proficiency in speaking an other-than-English language.

What is the Avant STAMP?

Avant STAMP assessments are web-based and computer-adaptive, with real-world questions, scenarios, or prompts that engage students to actively determine their individual proficiency levels in communication skills such as speaking. The Avant STAMP is unique in that it measures what students can communicate “on the spot” as they would have to do in possible real-life situations.

These assessments have been validated by statistical analysis and expert reviews and are the most widely recognized method for measuring proficiency in the U.S. school system. The STAMP WS for Chaldean is designed for students in grade 7 and above.

There are three major proficiency levels assessed: novice, intermediate and advanced. There are three sublevels within the first two levels: low, mid, and high, and two (low and mid) for the highest

Avant STAMP scores are reported at proficiency benchmarks aligned to nationally recognized standards from Novice through Advanced. Speaking responses are scored externally by Avant Certified Raters and typically made available within 10-12 business days. Reports are downloadable for flexible analysis and distribution to test takers.

Why Choose the Avant STAMP WS Test for Chaldean?

Avant was chosen after careful review because they are leaders in the field of language assessments and have approval from the Michigan Department of Education. They also had a pre-existing partnership with Oakland Schools.

It also offers an accessible online format. With convenience in mind, the test is administered online, allowing learners from anywhere to demonstrate their proficiency. Specifically designed to assess speaking proficiency, this test honors the unique characteristics of the Chaldean language.

Finally, Avant is rigorously rated. Upholding Avant’s high standards, the test ensures reliable and meaningful assessment results.

The Foundation was originally approached by Oakland Schools regarding this opportunity; Dr. Christina Kozlowski and Jennifer Howe from Oakland Schools served as advocates and helped support the CCF in the communication with Avant.

If you have any questions about Avant testing, call the Chaldean Community Foundation at 586.722.7253.