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Welcome to week 4 of our CASAS STEPS decoding series. We have discussed some of the reasons for the test change, reviewed important ESOL acronyms, answered teachers’ FAQs, and this week we are discussing the focus of the new CASAS STEPS, which replaced the CASAS Life and Work Series in July 2024. The new assessment correlates with ELP Standards and CASAS competencies and tests students’ higher thinking order (DOK levels). Let’s explore what that means and how to prepare our students for this new challenge.

English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPS)

The ELPS describe the language skills Adult ELL (English Language Learners) need to achieve the higher academic standards required for college and career readiness. The ten anchor standards cover reading, listening, speaking, writing, and language. However, the CASAS STEPS tests only assess ELPS competencies that relate to listening and reading.

CASAS STEPS Competencies

TheÌýCASAS CompetenciesÌýidentify more than 360 essential life skills for adult learners; the competencies are relevant from beginning literacy through postsecondary education and training. The new CASAS STEPS covers the following content areas: Basic Communication, consumer economics, community resources, health, employment, and Government and Law.

Depth of Knowledge (DOK)

Webb’s Depth of Knowledge was introduced in 1997 by Norman Webb from the Wisconsin Center for Education Research. DOK explains and categorizes academic tasks according to the complexity of thinking required to successfully complete them, ranging from basic recall (level 1) to basic application of skills/concepts (level 2), strategic thinking (level 3), and extended thinking (level 4). (See printable chart).

Aligned with federal academic standards, the new CASAS STEPS is a valuable tool to assess students in areas that are essential for life in the United States. ɫèAV’s Future Series is completely ready and aligned with those critical instructional standards (ELPS and CASAS Competencies) in every lesson. Future Series also specifies cognitive skills in every lesson to ensure that students are engaging in different levels of thinking throughout the instruction (DOK).

Click hereÌýto download a printable version of the DOK chart, to browse our textbook selection, including our CASAS STEPS aligned FUTURE Series. If your program is not yet using the series, or if you’d like tutorials and tips as a current user,Ìýclick here. Follow along onÌýÌýand share this post with your fellow teachers and administrators.

Back in July 2024, the CASAS test was updated to become the CASAS STEPS (Student Test of English Progress and Success). In our previous blog posts, we discussed some of the reasons for the change,Ìýwe covered acronyms every Adult ESOL teacher should learn, and this week we are answering frequently asked questions regarding the new assessment.

1. What is the timeline for the CASAS STEPS implementation?

The new test has been available since 2023 and was fully implemented nationwide on July 1, 2024. The CASAS STEPS is approved by OCTAE for NRS reporting through July 2030.

2. How is the STEPS series different from the previous series?

The CASAS STEPS assessments contain more rigorous questions and provide shorter testing times. Both Reading and Listening STEPS now have five levels, measuring academic vocabulary and higher-order thinking skills contained in the ELP Standards. Note that the test form numbers have also changed, ranging from 621R-630R and 621L-630L.

3. What is the STEPS scale score range in relation to NRS levels?

The new test levels are A-E, with two alternate forms for each level. The STEPS levels correspond to NRS levels 1-6. Each STEPS level overlaps with two - and only two - NRS levels, so there is no chance of a level 1 (beginning ESL literacy) student accidentally testing into a level 5 (high intermediate) class.

4. How many questions are there and how long is each test?

Reading: Locator (15 minutes); Level A (33 items, 30 minutes); Level B (36 items, 50 minutes); Levels C-E: (36 items, 75 minutes).
Listening: Locator (15 minutes); Level A (33 items, 28 minutes); Level B (36 items, 45 minutes); Level C (39 items, 52 minutes); Level D (39 items, 56 minutes); Level E (39 items, 38 minutes).

5. Can we pretest with the Life and Work series while transitioning to the STEPS series?

No, agencies cannot pretest students on the Life and Work series and post-test on the STEPS series. It is essential that pre- and post-testing always occurs within the same series to ensure test reliability and validity.

6. What are the STEPS competency areas?

Basic communication, consumer economics, community resources, health, employment, and government and law (new for test levels D and E).

7. What task areas does each test contain?

The Reading STEPS contains four task areas: 1. Forms; 2. Charts, tables, and graphs; 3. Texts, emails, articles, and narratives; 4. Signs, ads, and labels. The following ELPS skills are assessed: vocabulary, details, main idea, inference, point of view, and supporting evidence.

The Listening STEPS contains five task areas: vocabulary, details, dialogue, main idea, and summary. The following ELPS skills are assessed: retell key details, continue conversation, identify the main topic, and summarize.

8. How can I prepare my students for the new test?

ɫèAV offers a wide selection of educational material to prepare you and your students for the new CASAS STEPS. Our FUTURE series is completely aligned with the new test format, with lesson prep tips, notes and examples for teachers, templates, study guides, test overviews, printed and digital test practices, answer sheets, and the integrated online platform MyEnglishLab.

What other questions do you have?

Click here to download a printable version of the charts and tables, to browse our textbook selection, including our FUTURE Series. If your program is not yet using the series, or if you’d like tutorials and tips as a current user,Ìýclick here. Follow along onÌýÌýand share this post with your fellow teachers and administrators.

As you might have learned, the CASAS Life and Work Test series has been updated to become the (Student Test of English Progress). In last week’s blog, we discussed a few of the reasons for the change, and now it is time to review some key terminology to help you further understand what goes on in the ESL field of Adult Education. This week, we’ll review a list of 10 significant Adult ESL acronyms you will come across throughout your teaching career.

1) WIOA - Workforce Innovations Opportunity Act

Passed in 2014, the WIOA was designed to strengthen and improve our public workforce system by helping job seekers access employment, education, training, and support services. It requires states to strategically align their workforce development programs to coordinate the needs of both job seekers and employers.

2) OCTAE - Office of Career Technical and Adult Education

The OCTAE administers and coordinates programs related to adult education and literacy, career and technical education, and community colleges.

3) NRS - National Reporting System for Adult Education

The NRS is the accountability system for federally funded adult education programs authorized by the WIOA. The NRS includes the WIOA primary performance indicators, which describe adult education students and programs.

4) EFL - Educational Functioning Levels

EFL Descriptors for Literacy/English Language Arts are intended to guide both teaching and assessment for adult learners. They are organized into reading, writing, speaking, listening, and language domains. There are 6 NRS EFLs: Level 1) Beginning ESL Literacy, Level 2) Low Beginning ESL, Level 3) High Beginning ESL, Level 4) Low Intermediate ESL, Level 5) High Intermediate ESL, and Level 6) Advanced ESL.

5) ELPS - English Language Proficiency Standards

ELPS are standards developed to address the need for educational equity, access and rigor for adult ESOL learners with the goal of preparing students for career/postsecondary education.

6) CCR - College and Career Readiness Standards for Adult Education

The CCR reflects the content most relevant to preparing adult students for success in colleges, technical training programs, work, and citizenship in the areas of English language arts/literacy and mathematics.

7) CASAS - Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment Systems

CASAS provides testing of basic and academic skills for youth and adults and curriculum tools for educators. Tests are approved by the Department of Education and the Department of Labor for native and non-native English speakers to assess reading, listening, speaking, writing, and math skills from the lowest literacy levels to high school exit and transition to postsecondary education, training, and the workforce.

8) CASAS STEPS - Student Test of English Progress and Success

NRS-approved assessments for ESL that measure academic vocabulary and higher-order thinking skills contained in the ELPS. Replaced the CASAS Life and Work reading and listening test series.

9) MSG - Measurable Skill Gain

MSG is the documented academic, technical, occupational, or other forms of progress toward a credential or employment. Documented progress can be measured by comparing a participant’s initial EFL as determined by a basic skills pre-test with the participant’s EFL as determined by the same basic skills post-test.

10) IET - Integrated Education & Training

IET is an education model that combines occupational skills training with adult education services to increase the educational and career advancement of participants. It has three required components - adult education and literacy activities, workforce preparation activities, and workforce training, which must all be provided simultaneously.

What other acronyms have you come across in the Adult Education field?

Click here to download a printable version of this cheat sheet to browse our textbook selection, including our CASAS STEPS-aligned FUTURE Series. If your program is not yet using the series, or if you’d like tutorials and tips as a current user, click here. Follow along on and share this post with your fellow teachers and administrators.

As you might have heard, the CASAS Test has been updated and is now the CASAS STEPS (Student Test of English Progress and Success). Some of the changes include fewer yet more rigorous test questions and streamlined reading and listening levels. Although changes can be challenging, our team at ɫèAV is here to help you navigate them and help your students succeed.Ìý

The changing landscape of adult ESL classrooms

No one knows more about the drastic changes happening in Adult ESL classrooms than teachers. With emerging trends like blended learning and AI technologies and changes in the legislative and workforce landscapes, classrooms are not the same in 2024 as they were 10 years ago when the CASAS Life and Work 980 Listening Series was released. Let’s look at four reasons why we are getting an updated CASAS assessment.

Why the CASAS test changed

1. Changes in the workforce

First, the CASAS test changed because the workforce has changed. Jobs today require higher thinking and more digital skills than ever before. To succeed in this competitive market, our students need to be exposed to more complex and rigorous materials and evaluated accordingly.

2. Introduction of IET Programs

The introduction of IET programs (Integrated Education & Training) has shifted adult education methodology to allow for simultaneous career and language preparation, in which students take ESL/ABE courses at the same time as professional certification courses. Curriculum needs to include academic language skills and specific career-related content such as medical, culinary, or construction vocabulary, preparing students to pass state certification assessments. We need our students to complete ESOL and GED classes more quickly and efficiently than ever, alongside certification programs through technical and career colleges.

3. Technological advancements

Additionally, there has been a complete shift in the way we use technology and automation in the classroom. Smart boards, online games, online classes, language apps, and YouTube are just a few examples of the world students have at their disposal in their pockets. Many everyday tasks must be completed digitally, like setting up doctor’s appointments, filing taxes, purchasing groceries, and assessing digital literacy is vital.

4. New NRS descriptors

Aside from changes in the classroom and workforce, the OCTAE (Office of Career Technical and Adult Education has transitioned to a new set of NRS (National Reporting System) descriptors, and the CASAS assessment needed to be updated to match that transition. We will cover those changes in more detail in the coming weeks.

Supporting the transition

Our instructional team has been working hard to ease the transition for you. All our FUTURE Series materials are already aligned with the new CASAS STEPS. If your program is not yet using the series, or if you would like the tutorials and tips as a current user, Discover more about CASAS STEPS preparation here. If you're keen on incorporating FUTURE in your institution, get in touch with us. Stay tuned for .

Engaging in creative writing is one effective way to improve your English language skills. It allows for artistic expression and personal flair, making it a unique way to put your imagination into words. Additionally, creative writing can draw from the author’s life and experiences, providing a personal touch to the narrative. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, creative writing can help you enhance your vocabulary, grammar and overall language proficiency.

Creative writing exercises can also benefit other forms of writing, such as business writing and technical writing, even though these are not typically considered creative writing. In this post, we’ll explore various creative writing exercises that are designed to make learning English fun and engaging, as well as improve writing skills.

Learning English can be a rewarding yet challenging journey. Whether you're aiming to improve your language skills for travel, work, or personal growth, using the right resources will make all the difference.Ìý

Types of English exercises you should try

Grammar exercises

Grammar is the backbone of any language. Worksheets focusing on grammar can help you understand sentence structure, verb tenses and other essential rules. Look for exercises that cover:

• Verb conjugation: Practice different verb forms and understand when to use each.
• Sentence structure: Learn how to construct sentences correctly.
• Punctuation: Understand the importance of punctuation marks and how to use them properly.

Vocabulary building

Expanding your vocabulary is crucial for effective communication. Worksheets can help you learn new words and phrases, as well as their meanings and usage. Try exercises like:

• Word matching: Match words with their definitions.
• Fill-in-the-blanks: Complete sentences using appropriate vocabulary.
• Synonyms and antonyms: Identify words with similar or opposite meanings.

Reading comprehension

Improving your reading skills involves understanding and interpreting written texts. Worksheets designed for reading comprehension can help you practice:

• Short stories: Read short passages and answer questions about the content.
• Articles: Analyze articles to identify main ideas and supporting details.
• Inference: Draw conclusions based on the information provided in the text.

Writing practice

Writing exercises help you articulate your thoughts clearly and coherently. Worksheets can guide you through different writing styles and formats:

• Essay writing: Practice writing essays on various topics.
• Letter writing: Learn how to write formal and informal letters.
• Storytelling: Create your own stories using prompts or randomly selected features.Ìý

Effective communication is critical in the fast-paced world of global commerce. For non-fluent English speakers (or emerging professionals who have just entered their first business careers), crafting compelling work documents can be a daunting task. Mastering workplace writing skills is vital whether you're seeking to close a deal, make contacts, establish a professional relationship or simply make your day-to-day correspondence more impactful.

Understanding the nuances of business English and applying them skillfully can set your company and you apart in the competitive corporate arena. Have a look at our guide on how to improve your corporate English writing skills.

What is it?

Business writing refers to the clear and purposeful use of language in written form within a professional context. It encompasses a wide range of documents, including emails, reports, proposals and presentations, tailored to communicate effectively with clients, colleagues and stakeholders. That can also include writing web content for professional audiences and clients.

What's an example of business writing?

One example is a formal email to a client:

Subject: Proposal for Partnership

Dear Mr. Smith,

I hope this email finds you well. I'm writing to present a partnership opportunity with XYZ Corp that aligns with your company's goals for expansion and innovation.

[...]

I look forward to your response and the possibility of future collaboration.

Warm regards,

Jane Doe

Why is effective business writing important?

Effective business writing is crucial as it reflects the professionalism and credibility of an individual and their organization. It ensures that the message is understood as intended, which is pivotal in decision-making processes and maintaining positive business relationships.

Clear writing improves workplace communication by minimizing misunderstandings, saving time and enhancing productivity. It facilitates seamless collaboration between teams and departments and aids in developing and maintaining a positive professional image.

Key elements of professional English writing

When crafting business documents, several key elements ensure your workplace writing is effective and well-received. These elements include:

• Structure and organization:ÌýA well-structured document with a clear introduction, body and conclusion makes your content more understandable and engaging. Use headings and bullet points to break down information and guide the reader through your message.
• Tone and formality: The tone should match the context and purpose of your communication. While a business proposal might require formal language, an internal email to colleagues can be less formal. Understanding the nuances of tone can greatly impact how your message is perceived.
• Purpose-driven writing: Every piece of corporate writing should have a clear purpose. Whether it's to inform, persuade, request or confirm, keeping the purpose in mind ensures that your writing is focused and achieves its intended goal.
• Attention to detail: Precision and accuracy are paramount. This includes correct grammar, punctuation and spelling, as well as ensuring that all facts and figures mentioned are accurate. Errors in your writing can diminish your credibility and confuse the message.
• Cultural sensitivity: In a global business environment, it is crucial to be aware of cultural differences and avoid culturally sensitive phrases. This sensitivity can prevent misunderstandings and foster more harmonious business relations.

By focusing on these elements of workplace writing, you can enhance your business English writing and ensure it's both professional and effective.

How can I improve my professional English writing?

Improving your business English writing involves focusing on clarity, conciseness and appropriateness. Here are a few strategies to get you started:

• Immerse yourself in business language: Read a variety of business-related materials such as reports, emails and articles.
• Practice regularly: Engage in writing exercises that mimic real-world business scenarios.
• Get feedback: Have your writing reviewed by proficient English speakers and incorporate their suggestions.
• Brush up on basics: Reinforce your understanding of grammar, vocabulary and punctuation.
• Utilize technology: Take advantage of language learning apps and online courses that offer business English modules. These tools can provide interactive learning experiences and immediate feedback.
• Join professional networks: Participate in forums and networking groups where business English is used. Observing and engaging in discussions can enhance your understanding and application of business terminologies and conventions.

Practical business writing tips

You've got a writing task to start but you don't quite know how to approach it. Here are some actionable steps to help you:

• Start with a clear purpose: Define the objective of your document and stick to it.
• Organize your thoughts: Use headings, bullet points and paragraphs to structure your content logically.
• Be concise: Use straightforward language and eliminate redundant words.
• Use an appropriate tone: Maintain professionalism and consider the cultural context of your audience.
• Revise and edit: Always revise your work for errors and clarity before sending it.

Bad corporate writing

To illustrate what to avoid, here are a few examples of bad writing:

• Overuse of complex vocabulary leading to confusing sentences.
• Long-winded paragraphs that bury the main point.
• Casual or inappropriate language and words that don't fit the business context.
• Writing that lacks a clear call to action.
• Ignoring cultural nuances and making assumptions based on one's own cultural context. This can lead to misinterpretations or even offense, undermining the purpose of the communication.

A bad example

Applying the points above, you can begin to see how this message uses some of these examples, this could be perfectly fine for written conversation with a friend but not on a more serious, professional level:

Subject: Quick Hello and AskÌý

Hey!

Hope this message finds ya in good spirits. Wanna catch up real quick this Thursday on a lil' something I've got on my mind? Got an idea that might just be up your alley - think major game-changer vibes for both of us. Let's make it happen. Excited to hear your thoughts!

Cheers!

Alex

The effects of poor professional writing

Poor business writing can have far-reaching repercussions that can significantly impact an individual's career progression as well as an organization's reputation. Ineffective communication may lead to misunderstandings and loss of opportunities, eroding trust between parties and taking a toll on professional relationships. It's not just about immediate confusion or delays; the long-term effects can include the potential loss of business, as clients and partners may perceive inefficiency and lack of professionalism.

English for effective business writing

Mastering workplace writing is a continuous process that demands dedication and practice. By focusing on clarity, structure and an audience-centered approach, you can craft messages that not only inform customers but also influence them.

Keep refining your skills, taking feedback positively, and staying updated with trends. Your written word has the potential to make a real impact in the business world, so wield your pen (or keyboard) and write with confidence and precision.

Unlock your full potential in the business world with our comprehensive Business English courses. Also, check out our post '5 ways to politely say no in business English' and other language learning posts.Ìý

Teaching a language goes beyond imparting the rules of grammar and vocabulary. It's about unlocking the confidence in students to use that language in real-life conversations. Confidence in speaking is the bridge that connects classroom learning with the world outside.

In the era where digital solutions can complement traditional teaching methods, Mondly by ɫèAV can play a pivotal role in boosting learners' speaking confidence.

Why is it important to build students confidence?

Before we explore Mondly by ɫèAV's strengths, it's crucial to understand why speaking confidence matters. Communication is the heart of language, and confident speakers are more likely to use their language skills actively. They're more open to participating in conversations, which reinforces their learning and fosters better retention of the new language used.

Research has shown that 52% of English Learners leave their formal education without confidence in their speaking skills. Mondly by ɫèAV is your ultimate solution in tackling this challenge head-on, with 500+ minutes of English-speaking practice to build your learners' skills and confidence.

What causes a lack of confidence in speaking English?

There are a multitude of factors that contribute to a lack of confidence in speaking the English language well or any language for that matter. Some English learners feel self-conscious when their accent doesn't match what they perceive as the standard or desired accent.

Additionally, a lack of practice opportunities or speaking practice, especially in a supportive and constructive environment, can hinder students from becoming comfortable and fluent speakers. Understanding these challenges is the first step in overcoming them, allowing educators to tailor their teaching strategies to address these specific concerns and build a more inclusive and encouraging learning atmosphere.

What is Mondly by ɫèAV?

Mondly by ɫèAV is an English language learning application aligned to the Global Scale of English. With ɫèAV pedagogy at its core, Mondly by ɫèAV offers over 500 minutes of speaking practice. Immersive AI-powered conversations, advanced speech recognition and engaging role plays, accelerate learning and build confidence.

Passing an English proficiency test is a milestone for many non-fluent speakers. Among the different sections in such tests, the listening part can often present unique challenges. In most standardized English tests, your ability to comprehend and respond to spoken English will be put under scrutiny.

This blog post is dedicated to helping you, the ambitious test-taker, sharpen your listening skills and equip you with strategies to excel in the listening section of your English test.