Accommodations Toolkit

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

SD

SD

SD

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

X

X

X

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

SD

SD

SD

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

X

X

X

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

SD

SD

SD

N

0

2

49

0

2

49

0

2

44

Total (English Learners)

0

2

0

0

2

0

0

2

0

Accommodation:

Braille test materials (e.g., TA Notes, Student Braille test booklets) may be provided for a student with a visual impairment who requires a braille accommodation as indicated in the student’s IEP. If the braille form is to be administered, the BTC or STC should have selected the braille accommodation in the DRC INSIGHT Portal for each content area in which the student is receiving the accommodation during the November or January accommodation windows. The accommodation will appear on the student test ticket as “BRL”. If a student requires braille test materials but does not have “BRL” on the student test ticket, please contact the BTC.

A Transcriber, in the presence of another certificated educator, must record the individual student responses in the DRC INSIGHT test engine. If this is not completed, the student’s test cannot be scored. There is no braille Answer Document. Detailed instructions for the administration of a braille test and the recording of student responses in DRC INSIGHT are provided in the ACAP Summative Accessibility Supports and Accommodations Supplement included in the appendix of the Accessibility Supports and Accommodations Policy (ASAP) Manual.

Material needed to administer the braille assessment is included in the braille kit. Review this material prior to the assessment in the presence of the BTC.

This accommodation is untimed.

Accommodation (ELA, Math):

Students may require Braille version of the assessment. Available in Unified English Braille (UEB) and Nemeth for the math assessment items.

Accommodation (Science):

Students may require Braille version of the assessment. Available in Unified English Braille (UEB). Braille materials must be ordered from the test vendor.

Accommodation:

Provide a Braille test booklet.

Requires Adult Transcription: An adult must transfer the student’s response exactly as written into the TestNav system for both computer-based test (CBT) and paper-based test (PBT) schools.

Braille tests must be requested using the Special Paper Version (SPV) test online request form.

Accommodation:

Requires ADE: DESE Office of Student Assessment approval when paired with additional supports other than Dictate Responses to a Scribe.

Personal Needs Profile Selection:

• Braille Contracted, American Edition (EBAE)
• Braille Contracted, Unified English (UEB)

Notes: It is important that the test coordinator provide the correct braille format for the examinee. Transcription of responses in braille must be translated and transcribed to be scored. Responses must be reproduced exactly as provided by the examinee. Examinees authorized for braille should be provided triple time

Accommodation:

A student can use a resource that is a raised-dot code that an individual reads with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform), called tactile graphics. A student is provided with contracted or noncontracted braille; Nemeth and Unified English Braille (UEB) math code(s) are available for mathematics. The embedded resource is both embossed and refreshable.

To request the CAST tactile package or the braille hybrid adaptive test for mathematics, contact the LEA Success Agent for the region at https://ca-toms-help.ets.org/contact/ .

Emergency PPT forms are available if a student cannot access the needed assistive technology for refreshable braille presentation and the embosser needed for administration of the computer-based CAASPP or ELPAC.

Because the alternate assessments are administered in a one-on-one setting, this resource is not applicable to the CAAs or Alternate ELPAC.

Accommodation (Presentation):

Available only to students with an IEP or 504 plan with a documented diagnosis of blindness/visual impairment. Determine appropriateness for use of this accommodation with a teacher certified in the area of visual impairments.

Only a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI) proficient in reading the braille code used by the student may administer this assessment. This accommodation is typically administered in an individual assessment environment.

Note: While it is anticipated that most students are able to complete testing session within the standard testing time, due to the nature of the test administration and the need to for the student to respond in the manner the student uses instructionally, the testing session may take additional time.

Computer-based Assessment:

Math and ELA ONLY: A student who is blind or has a visual impairment takes the assessment using their preferred screen reader software (e.g., JAWS 15), pending a trial using the math or ELA Assistive Technology practice forms (securely delivered through the PAnext Training Site) with the student’s assistive technology device or software.

This online accommodated form reads information on the screen using screen reader software for ELA and math only. If the student is not using headphones, the student must test in a separate one-on-one setting.

Notes:

• Contact CDE Assessment for use of a screen reader on ELA. Use of a screen reader on ELA is a modification to the assessment. Any modification of the assessment is a misadministration and will result in an invalid score.
• A student who uses screen reader may also need tactile graphics. Refer to the Tactile Graphics information later in this section.
• The science computer-based assessment is not compatible with screen reader software. It is recommended the Test Administrator/TVI order the Braille kit (see Paper-based Assessment information below).

Special CBT Form Assignment Required for Math and ELA:

• Field = Test Format, Expected Value = O = Online
• Field = Assistive Technology; Expected Value = Y = Yes

Paper-based Assessment:

The braille test books include content presented in the identified braille code (UEB or UEB Math/Science) and embedded tactile graphics. As needed, visual descriptions are also embedded in the braille test books if a visual description is more accessible than a tactile graphic (as determined by a committee of braille readers). The Teacher Notes received in the braille test kits indicate differences between the braille test book and the standard print test book included for transcription (including added visual descriptions).

The following contents may be included in braille kits (varies by grade level and content area):

• Student
  1. UEB or UEB Math/Science Braille Test Books
  2. Math only:
     • Braille Protractor (grades 4-7 only; rulers are embedded in the braille test books for all grades)
     • UEB or UEB Math/Science Braille Math Reference Sheets (grades 5-8 only)
  3. Science only:
     • UEB or UEB Math/Science Braille Periodic Table (high school only)
• Teacher
  1. Teacher Notes for Braille
  2. Oral Script for Braille (for use as documented on student IEP/504 plans)
  3. Transcription Instructions
  4. Standard Print Test Book for Transcription

Test Administrators/TVIs may have access to the Teacher Notes (included in the braille kit) 24 hours prior to the administration of the assessment to ensure all needed materials are procured. Early access to other assessment materials is not allowed other than to verify the correct grade and content area materials were received by reviewing the test book cover only.

Test Administrators will transcribe student work demonstrated using tactile tools, such as an abacus or alternate graphing, into the standard print test book included in the braille kit. Test Administrators may assist in placement of a straight edge, or other tools needed, as requested by the student.

The student may record their answers directly on the adapted format book, on blank braille paper, or use a brailler or braille note-taker. The student’s responses must be transcribed by a TVI into the standard print test book (included in the braille kit) to be submitted for scoring. Student work or answers not transcribed will not be scored. See 6.1.6 Transcription Instructions.

Special PBT Form Assignment Required:

• Field = Test Format
  1. Expected Value = P = Paper
• Field = Visual Accommodations
  1. Expected Value = 01 = UEB (with Nemeth for Math and Science)
  2. Expected Value = 02 = UEB Math/Science

Accommodation (Response):

The brailler/braille note-taker accommodation is available only to students with an IEP or 504 plan with a documented diagnosis of blindness/visual impairment. Determine appropriateness for use of this accommodation with a teacher certified in the area of visual impairments (TVI). Only a TVI proficient in reading the braille code used by the student can provide this accommodation.

Administration must take place in an individual testing environment with adequate space for all materials, including the braille test book and brailler/braille note-taker.

Only authorized personnel may have access to the test, test materials, and student answers. Any pages (braille paper, brailler produced, or printed from a braille note-taker) containing the student’s answers are secure materials and must be returned to the SAC along with any used scratch paper from the test unit.

Computer-based Assessment: Not applicable.

Paper-based Assessment: The student may record their answers directly on the adapted format book, on blank braille paper, or use a brailler or braille note-taker. The TVI completes verbatim transcription of the student’s responses into the standard print test book (included in the braille kit) in the presence of a second school adult (refer to 6.1.6 Transcription Instructions). Student work or answers that are not transcribed are not scored.

Accommodation:

Access to braille, in conjunction with other technologies, is available through the online Test Delivery System when Permissive mode is set to YES in the student’s Test Settings in TIDE. Technology, such as refreshable braille devices or the use of a braille embosser, is available on the Smarter Balanced and NGSS Assessments for students who use them.

Refreshable braille is an electronic device that displays text in braille by means of movable “pins” that form braille letters and words. The display may contain anywhere between 12 and 80 braille cells that will be read tactually, then the next line of braille will appear.

Braille Embosser provides the graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) in a raised format (paper or thermoform).

As a reminder, EBAE contracted and uncontracted are no longer offered for students using braille Smarter Balanced ELA and Math. The following Braille presentations are available as an embedded accommodation:

Math

• UEB Contracted + Nemeth Math
• UEB Uncontracted + Nemeth Math
• UEB Contracted + UEB Math
• UEB Uncontracted + UEB Math

ELA

• UEB Contracted (No Math Content)
• UEB Uncontracted (No Math Content)

Science

• UEB Contracted + Nemeth

As a reminder, Permissive mode must be indicated within the TIDE system to access this embedded accommodation.

Accommodation:

A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform). Nemeth Code is available for Math.

Codes available on paper/pencil:

ELA

• EBAE contracted and uncontracted; UEB contracted and uncontracted

Mathematics

• EBAE contracted and uncontracted with Nemeth; UEB contracted and uncontracted with Nemeth

Students with visual impairments may read text via braille. Tactile overlays and graphics also may be used to assist the student in accessing content through touch. The type of braille presented to the student (contracted or non-contracted) is set in ART, or member’s comparable platform. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional time. Refreshable braille is available only for ELA. For math, braille will be presented via embosser; embosser-created braille can be used for ELA also. Alternative text descriptions are embedded in the assessment for all graphics. The type of braille presented to the student (contracted or noncontracted) is set in TIDE. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.

Students can take the test on a contracted Braille version of the paper form. UEB with Nemeth and UEB Technical are available for DeSSA Science, and UEB is produced for DeSSA Social Studies.

Accommodation:

Hard-Copy Braille Edition: The Braille Edition accommodation is intended for students who are blind or visually impaired. A student who is unable to take the computer-based test with a refreshable braille display (or where refreshable display is not available) may take the assessment using a hard-copy braille edition. Tactile graphics will also be embedded in the hard copy braille edition assessments, when needed.

Braille with Tactile Graphics: Student needs a set of hard copy braille test booklets with embedded tactile graphics.

Braille with Tactile Graphics (BR): May be used to provide access to the assessment for a braille-proficient EL who is blind. Only available for paper-based administration.

Refreshable Braille Display with Screen Reader Version for ELA Assessments: The Refreshable Braille Display with Screen Reader accommodation is intended for students who are blind or visually impaired on the ELA assessments. A student may take the assessment using his or her preferred screen reader software (when available) with a refreshable braille display. A student who uses a screen reader or refreshable braille will also receive a full hard copy braille edition because tactile graphics will be embedded in the hard copy braille edition assessments, when needed.

Accommodation:

Students who use braille materials will record their responses on braille paper. The contractor will transcribe the student’s responses from the braille paper into the regular print document. School/district personnel must apply a PreID label and ensure that information on the front of each student’s regular print document has been filled in accurately and completely before placing it, along with the braille book and answer sheets, in the student’s Special Document Return Envelope.

If a student using braille materials provides verbal or signed responses, you will record the student’s responses in the regular print test and answer book (or regular print answer document for Grades 5 & 8 Science and FCLE or Regular Print Test and Response Book for FAST) provided for the student. Include the student’s braille test materials and the regular print document containing his or her responses in the student’s Special Document Return Envelope(s).

If a student is using multiple learning media (e.g., a student uses braille materials and records his or her responses in a large print test and answer book), make sure that the student’s responses are in one answer document type. Place the document containing the student’s responses and the studentʼs regular print document in the student’s Special Document Return Envelope(s) according to the return instructions for that document type.

Accommodation:

If a student needs a braille test edition, it must be ordered in a timely manner. The test administrator for a braille test needs to be provided with a print version of the test during test administration. After a student finishes a braille edition of a test, a certified educator, under the supervision of the School Test Coordinator, must transcribe the student’s answers verbatim onto a standard answer sheet or response form.

Accommodation:

A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform). Contracted and non-contracted braille is available; Nemeth and UEB Math code(s) are available for math.

Students with visual impairments may read text via braille. Tactile overlays and graphics also may be used to assist the student in accessing content through touch. Due to limitations with refreshable braille technology and math braille codes, refreshable braille is available only for ELA. For math, braille will be presented via embosser; embosser-created braille can be used for ELA also. Alternative text descriptions are embedded in the assessment for all graphics. The type of braille presented to the student (contracted or non-contracted) is set in the test registration tool. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.

ELA listening passages:

A braille transcript of the closed captioning created for the listening passages. The braille transcripts are available in the following braille codes:

ELA

• UEB uncontracted
• UEB contracted

Students may have difficulty hearing the listening portion of the passage and also do not have enough functional vision to read the closed captioning provided for the passage. These students who are visually impaired or blind and deaf or hard of hearing AND who use braille may have access to Braille Transcripts. These students must be registered in the test registration tool for both braille and closed captioning. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.

Paper-based Assessment:

A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform). Codes available on paper-pencil:

ELA

• UEB uncontracted
• UEB contracted

Mathematics

• UEB uncontracted with Nemeth
• UEB contracted with Nemeth
• UEB uncontracted with UEB math
• UEB contracted with UEB math

Students with visual impairments may read text via braille. Tactile overlays and graphics also may be used to assist the student in accessing content through touch. The type of braille presented to the student (contracted or non-contracted) is set in the test registration tool. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.

Accommodation:

A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform). Contracted and noncontracted braille is available; Nemeth and UEB Math code(s) are available for math.

Students with visual impairments may read text via braille. Tactile overlays and graphics also may be used to assist the student in accessing content through touch. Due to limitations with refreshable braille technology and math braille codes, refreshable braille is available only for ELA. For math, braille will be presented via embosser; embosser-created braille can be used for ELA also. Alternative text descriptions are embedded in the assessment for all graphics. The type of braille presented to the student (contracted or non-contracted) is set in the test registration tool. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.

Math items and ELA listening passages:

A braille transcript of the closed captioning created for the listening passages. The braille transcripts are available in the following codes:

ELA

• EBAE uncontracted
• EBAE contracted
• UEB uncontracted
• UEB contracted

Students may have difficulty hearing the listening portion of the passage and also do not have enough functional vision to read the closed captioning provided for the passage. These students who are visually impaired or blind and deaf or hard of hearing AND who use braille may have access to Braille Transcripts. These students must be registered in the test registration tool for both braille and closed captioning. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.

Paper-based Assessment:

A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform). Codes available on paper-pencil:

ELA

• EBAE uncontracted
• EBAE contracted
• UEB uncontracted
• UEB contracted

Mathematics

• EBAE uncontracted with Nemeth
• EBAE contracted with Nemeth
• UEB uncontracted with Nemeth
• UEB contracted with Nemeth
• UEB uncontracted with UEB math
• UEB contracted with UEB math

Students with visual impairments may read text via braille. Tactile overlays and graphics also may be used to assist the student in accessing content through touch. The type of braille presented to the student (contracted or non-contracted) is set in the test registration tool. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.

Accommodation:

Refreshable Braille Display with Screen Reader Version for ELA/Literacy: A student who is blind or has a visual impairment takes the ELA/literacy assessments using his or her preferred screen reader software, pending an Infrastructure Trial, with a refreshable braille display. A student who uses a screen reader with refreshable braille will also need a braille test booklet. If the student is not using headphones, the student must be tested in a separate setting.

Hard Copy Braille Edition: A student who is blind or has a visual impairment and is unable to take the computer-based test with a refreshable braille display may take the ELA/literacy and mathematics assessments using the hard-copy contracted braille edition. Tactile graphics are already embedded in the hard copy braille edition. For students using braille forms, the Test Administrator directions for filling in a circle, making marks, and erasing do not apply. Students should number their responses to be sure that their answers can be transcribed accurately into a scorable test booklet or answer document.

Braille Note-taker: A student who is blind or has a visual impairment may use an electronic braille note-taker. The grammar checker, internet, and stored file functionalities must be turned off. For students using braille forms, the Test Administrator directions for filling in a circle, making marks, and erasing do not apply. Students should number their responses to be sure that their answers can be transcribed accurately into a scorable test booklet, answer document, or TestNav.

Braille Writer: A student who is blind or has a visual impairment may use a braille writer. For the Illinois Assessment of Readiness, grammar checker, internet, and stored file functionalities must be turned off. For students using braille forms, the Test Administrator directions for filling in a circle, making marks, and erasing do not apply. Students should number their responses to be sure that their answers can be transcribed accurately into a scorable test booklet, answer document, or TestNav.

Accommodation:

Braille Booklet: A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform). IDOE provides these assessments in Unified English Braille (UEB) with Nemeth Math for all grades.

Braille Embosser: TDS provides the required software, but local schools provide access to the Braille Embosser, which provides graphic materials (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) in a raised format to be embossed on a local braille embosser (paper or thermoform). Braille Embosser can only work if permissive mode and print on demand are also selected. Failure to select all three will result in the accommodation not functioning on the assessment.

Braille Transcription for Audio Items: A braille transcript of the closed captioning is available for the listening passages.

Refreshable Braille: TDS provides the required software, but local schools provide access to the refreshable braille; this is available for students taking ILEARN. Students who are blind or have low vision may use refreshable braille to read text output. A refreshable braille display is a mechanical device for displaying braille characters. Visually-impaired students who cannot use a computer monitor may use it to read text output. Permissive mode must be indicated as an accommodation to use refreshable braille.

Accommodation:

A raised-dot code that students read as a tactile input by running their fingertips over the braille pages. Graphic materials such as charts, diagrams, and illustrations are presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform).

Students who are blind or have low vision who are fluent in braille may be provided this accommodation. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional testing time to complete the assessment.

Braille Writer or Notetaker: A braille writer or notetaker can be used if the grammar checker, internet, and file storing functions are disabled.

Students who are blind who use a braille writer or notetaker to record responses may use this accommodation. Students should number responses to the questions so they can be easily and accurately transcribed into an answer document. Responses must be transcribed into answer documents in order for the responses to be scored.

Accommodation:

Braille is only available in a paper and pencil format for all Kentucky state tests.

Accommodation:

Paper-based: For students taking a hardcopy Braille form, the test administration instructions for filling in bubbles, making marks, and erasing marks do not apply. Student should be sure to number their responses to be sure their responses can be transcribed accurately into a standard consumable test booklet.

Computer-based: For students taking a hardcopy Braille form, the test administration instructions for completing the online form do not apply. Students should be sure to number their responses to ensure their responses can be transcribed accurately into the online form.

Accommodation:

Both contracted and un-contracted braille (English Braille, American Edition, or Unified English Braille) are available as indicated by a student’s IEP/504 Plan. Students who require a braille assessment will be sent a transcribed paper-based assessment. All of the student’s answers are entered by the assessment administrator or proctor directly into the assessment platform. Once the student’s answers have been entered into the platform, the braille forms are destroyed onsite.

Accommodation:

Refreshable Braille Display: Refreshable Braille displays are primarily used by blind students. Refreshable Braille displays provide access to information on a computer screen by electronically raising and lowering different combination of pins in Braille cells. A student who is blind or visually impaired generally uses a Refreshable Braille display in conjunction with his or her preferred Screen Reader software.

Due to technical limitations, some online tools may not be available for use with the Screen Reader Version and Refreshable Braille Display.

Hard Copy Braille Edition: Braille is a system of raised dots that are read with the fingers. Unified English Braille (UEB) consists of literary braille (the alphabet, contractions, signs unique to braille, and formatting), computer notation, math and science, music and linguistics. The United States also utilizes the Nemeth Code for Mathematics and Science. Braille is written with a manual or electric braillewriter, slate and stylus, or electronic braille note taker. Braille embossers are braille printers that emboss braille after it has been correctly translated and formatted on a computer with braille translation software. For this accommodation, braille is typically produced in a hardcopy, paper format.

If needed by the student, braille test booklets or answer documents may be disassembled for testing (but must be reassembled for return). It is critical that Test Administrators count the number of pages in the test booklet or answer document prior to disassembling the test booklets or answer documents to help ensure that all pages are returned.

Braille Notetaker: Electronic braille notetakers can be used as a portable word processor. They usually have a braille keyboard for input and speech output. Many also have the option of output via a refreshable braille display. In addition to word processing, they may have options for spreadsheets, calendar functions, email, and Internet access. Files can be printed in regular print by connecting to a regular printer or in braille via a braille embosser. The accommodation is written with a specific focus on students with visual impairments or blindness.

Braille Writer: A braillewriter is a device for writing braille. It can include a manual or electronic braillewriter or a slate and stylus. The device prints in braille and does not have the option of editing or saving files.

Accommodation (Presentation):

Paper-based: All answers must be either scribed or transcribed verbatim into the student's test & answer booklet and returned according to instructions in the PAM so the student will receive. Braille special instructions will accompany the Braille test.

Previewing Braille test content by test administrators: Under secure conditions supervised by the principal, Braille test administrators may review Braille test materials up to four days prior to testing once they are received by the school for the purpose of preparing to orient the student. Test materials may not be removed from the school. Braille test administrators who review the test prior to testing will be asked to sign nondisclosure acknowledgment forms.

Accommodation (Response):

Computer-based:

Refreshable Braille Display/Braille note-taker (specific external device used in conjunction with screen reader for student who is blind or has a vision impairment). A hard-copy edition of the Braille test must also be ordered.

Braille writer (specific external device used in conjunction with screen reader and hard-copy Braille test)

Paper-based:

Braille note-taker (specific external device used in conjunction with hard-copy Braille test). Braille notes should be returned with the school’s nonscorable shipment.

Braille writer (specific external device used in conjunction with the hard-copy Braille test). A printout of each response may be generated and inserted in the student’s test & answer booklet, with all required information on each page.

Accommodation:

Students with visual impairments may read text via braille. The M-STEP assessments are offered in a paper/ pencil braille format. Students who use a braille form must have their answers transcribed onto a regular scannable answer document for the appropriate grade/subject area. When an M-STEP and MI-Access braille test is ordered for a student, the district will be shipped a Braille Kit that will include the Assessment Administrator Booklet for Braille (AABB). The AABB is a guide for the test administrator to use while administering the assessment. The Printto-Braille Correspondence document is available on the M-STEP (www.michigan.gov/mstep) and MI-Access (www.michigan.gov/mi-access) web pages. For some content areas, a contracted and uncontracted form of the braille assessment are available.

ELA, Math, and Science: Contracted and Uncontracted available for paper/pencil; refer to the M-STEP TAM for information on ordering paper/pencil materials.

Accommodation:

A braille version of the test book is available to any student who is blind or partially sighted and is competent in the braille system, as determined by the IEP or 504 plan team. Unified English Braille (UEB) format is used for braille test materials. Both contracted and uncontracted versions are available; contracted braille uses the same letters, punctuation, and numbers as uncontracted, but adds abbreviations, contractions and other short forms of words. Each year, the code will default to the BC code in Pretest Editing; districts must change the code to BU if a student requires uncontracted materials. The applicable braille test book will be automatically shipped if the code is indicated in Pretest Editing by Jan. 20; after this date, it must be ordered as an additional order in PearsonAccess Next.

Test Monitor Notes for Braille are provided along with the braille test books for the Test Monitor to reference during test administration. A Test Monitor administering a braille test should be provided access to the Test Monitor Notes for Braille and the corresponding test books up to 5 business days prior to the scheduled administration. Test Monitors must complete the MCA Test Monitor course prior to accessing the test materials, and they must keep the test materials secure as they prepare for testing. The Test Monitor Notes for Braille include the Script to Read to Students section of the Testing Directions: Paper to allow the scripted instructions to be tailored to the braille administration, as needed, and for ease of administration. Test Monitors will still need to refer the Testing Directions for the other sections.

A student taking a braille test may need more time to test than print readers, and this should be taken into account when scheduling test administration. Student responses may be recorded in one of the following ways, which should be discussed with the student prior to test administration; some require additional accommodation codes to be documented:

• In the braille test book by the student
• Dictated to a scribe by the student (SC)
• Using assistive technology (such as, typewriter, word processor, braille writer, electronic notetaker, slate and stylus) (AT)

District staff must enter all student responses online within the testing window. Refer to Entering Student Responses Online for MCA Paper Accommodations earlier in this chapter.

Notes:

• Paper test books (12, 18, 24, BC, or BU) cannot be used together.
• In Posttest Editing and reporting, the accommodation code appears as BR for all braille materials; BC and BU are used only during Pretest Editing for ordering the test materials.

An electronic notetaker (braille) is an appropriate accommodation for students who are competent and comfortable using the device, as determined by the IEP or 504 plan team. District staff must enter student responses online within the testing window. Refer to Entering Student Responses Online for MCA Paper Accommodations earlier in this chapter for additional information. Use of audio features on an electronic notetaker is allowable if the IEP or 504 plan specifies it. The device must be used in an individual setting to play back text the student has entered. The Test Monitor is responsible for monitoring that the student is using the audio feature only to enter and play back notes, and not for any portion of the passage or test items. Any notes must be deleted following each test session. The use of a device to record test content, including the name of the person deleting the test content, must be documented on the Test Administration Report (TAR).

Test book provided in Unified English Braille (UEB) format, available in both contracted and uncontracted formats.

Accommodation (ELA, Math):

A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform). Contracted and noncontracted braille is available; Nemeth and UEB Math code(s) are available for math.

Students with visual impairments may read text via braille. Tactile overlays and graphics also may be used to assist the student in accessing content through touch. Due to limitations with refreshable braille technology and math braille codes, refreshable braille is available only for ELA. For math, braille will be presented via embosser; embosser-created braille can be used for ELA also. Alternative text descriptions are embedded in the assessment for all graphics. The type of braille presented to the student (contracted or noncontracted) is set in TIDE. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.

ELA Listening Passages:

Braille Transcript: A braille transcript of the closed captioning created for the listening passages. The braille transcripts are available in the following braille codes:

ELA:

• UEB uncontracted
• UEB contracted

Students may have difficulty hearing the listening portion of the passage and also do not have enough functional vision to read the closed captioning provided for the passage. These students who are visually impaired or blind and deaf or hard of hearing AND who use braille may have access to braille transcripts. These students must be registered in TIDE, for both braille and closed captioning. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.

Accommodation (Science):

A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform). Nemeth and UEB contracted Technical code(s) are available for science.

Students with visual impairments may read text via braille. Tactile overlays and graphics also may be used to assist the student in accessing content through touch. Due to limitations with refreshable braille technology, some braille items and graphics will be presented via embosser. Alternative text descriptions are embedded in the assessment for all graphics. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.

Accommodation:

A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform). Contracted braille (Unified English Braille - UEB) is available. Nemeth code is available for math.

Students who are blind or have low vision may read text via braille. Tactile overlays and graphics also may be used to assist the student in accessing content through touch. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment

Accommodation:

A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform). Contracted and noncontracted braille is available; Nemeth and UEB Math code(s) are available for math.

Students with visual impairments may read text via braille. Tactile overlays and graphics also may be used to assist the student in accessing content through touch. Due to limitations with refreshable braille technology and math braille codes, refreshable braille is available only for ELA. For math, braille will be presented via embosser; embosser-created braille can be used for ELA also. Alternative text descriptions are embedded in the assessment for all graphics. The type of braille presented to the student (contracted or noncontracted) is set in the test registration tool. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.

Braille transcript (ELA Listening Passages):

A braille transcript of the closed captioning created for the listening passages. The braille transcripts are available in the following braille codes:

ELA

• UEB uncontracted
• UEB contracted

Students may have difficulty hearing the listening portion of the passage and also do not have enough functional vision to read the closed captioning provided for the passage. These students who are visually impaired or blind and deaf or hard of hearing AND who use braille may have access to Braille Transcripts. These students must be registered in the test registration tool for both braille and closed captioning. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.

Paper-based:

A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform). Codes available on paper-pencil:

ELA

• UEB uncontracted
• UEB contracted

Mathematics

• UEB uncontracted with Nemeth
• UEB contracted with Nemeth
• UEB uncontracted with UEB math
• UEB contracted with UEB math

Students with visual impairments may read text via braille. Tactile overlays and graphics also may be used to assist the student in accessing content through touch. The type of braille presented to the student (contracted or non-contracted) is set in the test registration tool. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.

Designated Feature:

A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (thermoform). Contracted and non-contracted braille is available; Nemeth code is available for math.

Students with visual impairments may read text via braille. Tactile overlays and graphics also may be used to assist the student in accessing content through touch. Due to limitations with refreshable braille technology and math braille codes, refreshable braille is available only for ELA. For math, braille will be presented via embosser; embosser-created braille can be used for ELA also. Alternative text descriptions are embedded in the assessment for all graphics. The type of braille presented to the student (contracted or non-contracted) is set in TIDE. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment. To access this accommodation, students also need to have their presentation set to Braille and Print On Request turned on.

Accommodation:

Computer-based:

Refreshable Braille Display: A student who is blind or has a visual impairment takes the ELA assessments using their preferred screen reader software, pending an Infrastructure Trial, with a refreshable braille display. A student who uses a screen reader with refreshable braille will also need a tactile graphics booklet, which contains only the graphics portion of test questions and visual descriptions of pictures and multimedia where applicable. If the student is not using headphones, the student must be tested in a separate setting.

Braille with Tactile Graphics: A student who is blind or has a visual impairment and is unable to take the computer-based test with a refreshable braille display may take the ELA, mathematics, and science assessments using the hard-copy braille edition. Tactile graphics are already embedded in the hard copy braille edition. For students using braille forms, the directions for filling in a circle, making marks, and erasing do not apply.

Electronic Braille Response: A student who is blind or has a visual impairment may use an electronic braille note-taker. The grammar checker, internet, and stored file functionalities must be turned off. For students using braille forms, the directions for filling in a circle, making marks, and erasing do not apply. Students should number their responses to be sure that their answers can be transcribed accurately into TestNav.

Paper-based:

Refreshable Braille Display: Same as above.

Braille with Tactile Graphics: Same as above.

Electronic Braille Response: A student who is blind or has a visual impairment may use an electronic braille note-taker. The grammar checker, internet, and stored file functionalities must be turned off. For students using braille forms, Test Administrator directions for filling in a circle, making marks, and erasing do not apply. Students should number their responses to be sure that their answers can be transcribed accurately into TestNav.

Accommodation:

Assessment materials must be available in the braille code that is used most efficiently by each test taker as indicated on his/her IEP or Section 504 Plan. IEP teams and Section 504 committees must determine at the meeting what braille code is appropriate for the student and document the appropriate type in the accommodations data management system. If the Braille Edition accommodation is provided to the student, as with all accommodations for North Carolina tests, (1) the use must be documented in the current IEP or Section 504 Plan, and (2) the accommodation must be routinely used during instruction and similar classroom assessments. UEB literary code and UEB for math and technical materials code reference sheets do not accompany braille editions for use during secure state test administrations. The information located on such sheets should be addressed during classroom instruction.

Accommodation:

A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic materials (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, illustrations) are presented in a raised format (paper, thermoform, or refreshable braille). Both contracted and un-contracted braille (English Braille, American Edition) are available; Unified English Braille will be adopted for future assessments. Nemeth code is available for math.

Accommodation:

Braille notetaker: A student who is blind or has visual impairments may use an electronic Braille notetaker. For Ohio’s State Tests, grammar checker, Internet and stored file functionalities must be turned off. The responses of a student who uses an electronic Braille notetaker during Ohio’s State Tests must be transcribed exactly as entered in the electronic Braille notetaker. Only transcribed responses will be scored.

Braille Writer: A student who is blind or has visual impairments may use an electronic Braille writer. A test administrator must transcribe into the computer the student’s responses exactly as entered in the electronic Braille writer. Only transcribed responses will be scored.

Accommodation:

Braille test formats will be provided on paper using contracted Braille and Nemeth code for numbers and formulas.

The Test Administrator must transcribe answers verbatim into the standard answer document/test book that was provided in the large-print (paper/pencil) or Braille kit.

Accommodation (ELA, Math):

A raised-dot code that individuals read with their fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform). Contracted and noncontracted braille is available; Nemeth and UEB Technical code(s) are available for Math.

Braille Files available in paper form:

ELA

• UEB Contracted; UEB Uncontracted

Mathematics

• UEB Contracted with Nemeth math; UEB Uncontracted with Nemeth math

The type of Braille presented to the student (contracted or uncontracted) is set in TIDE.

Accommodation (Science):

The Science assessment is available to students who use Braille.

Braille Files available in paper form:

Science

• UEB Contracted with Nemeth math

Prior to administering the assessment through the Braille Interface, test administrators must receive both the general test administration and security training provided locally through the school district, as well as specific training on administering the Science assessment through the Braille Interface and its supporting Braille technologies. In addition, districts must ensure that students using the Braille Interface receive training on all supporting Braille equipment and receive an opportunity to access the Sample Tests available on the OSAS portal prior to taking the test.

Accommodation:

Braille versions must be ordered in the DRC enrollment system. Paper Braille users may use the online audio version in addition to the paper braille version when determined appropriate by IEP team.

Refreshable Braille: The online test engine is compatible with a refreshable Braille device that works with Job Access with Speech (JAWS). The JAWS website is Freedom Scientific JAWS website and is a valuable source to evaluate which refreshable Braille devices are compatible. Refreshable Braille users may also order the audio version when determined appropriate by IEP team. Refreshable Braille is not available for the Classroom Diagnostic Tool (CDT) due to its adaptive functionality.

Braille Note Taker: Responses must be transcribed verbatim into student’s regular answer booklet. IEP team determines if online audio version is appropriate for student to use along with the braille version.

Accommodation:

NGSA:

REFRESHABLE BRAILLE. Refreshable Braille in UEB with Nemeth is available. Tactile graphics for items can be printed using Print On Demand and an embosser or braille printer. NGSA TIDE: Braille Type: UEB Uncontracted with Nemeth Math or UEB Contracted with Nemeth Math and Presentation is Braille Edition.

BRAILLE EDITION. A paper edition in UEB with Nemeth is available. Both contracted and uncontracted braille are available. NGSA TIDE: Braille Type: UEB Uncontracted with Nemeth Math or UEB Contracted with Nemeth Math and Presentation is Braille Edition.

BRAILLE WRITER (Embedded). Braille writer can be used in conjunction with a screen reader for the online test. TIDE: Braille

BRAILLE WRITER (External or Non-Embedded). Student can use a braille writer for note-taking or to respond to test questions. All student responses must be transcribed by the student or a qualified test administrator into the Test Delivery System. NGSA TIDE: Braille.

RICAS:

REFRESHABLE BRAILLE. Refreshable Braille in UEB is available. Order a paper edition of Braille for tactile graphics. Use a braille reader in conjunction with a screen reader.

BRAILLE EDITION. Student uses a hard-copy UEB Braille test that includes both text and graphics. RICAS PNP Column Y (Braille Test Edition) Additional instructions in SR/PNP Guide.

BRAILLE WRITER (Embedded). A braille writer can be used in conjunction with a screen reader for the online test. RICAS PNP Column W (Screen Reader).

BRAILLE WRITER (External or Non-Embedded). Student can use a braille writer for note-taking or to respond to test questions. All student responses must be transcribed by the student or a qualified test administrator into a regular student answer booklet. RICAS PNP Column: Not Recorded.

Accommodation:

A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper, thermoform). contracted braille (Unified English Braille, Nemeth code is available for math.)

Students who are blind or have low vision may read text via braille. Tactile overlays and graphics also may be used to assist the student in accessing content through touch. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.

Braille Writer or Notetaker: A blind student uses a braille writer or notetaker with the grammar checker, internet, and file-storing functions turned off. Students should number their responses to be sure that their answers can be transcribed accurately into a score-able test booklet or answer document.

Accommodation (ELA, Math):

A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform). Contracted and non-contracted braille is available; Nemeth and UEB Math code(s) are available for math.

Students with visual impairments may read text via braille. Tactile overlays and graphics also may be used to assist the student in accessing content through touch. Due to limitations with refreshable braille technology and math braille codes, refreshable braille is available only for ELA. For math, braille will be presented via embosser; embosser-created braille can be used for ELA also. Alternative text descriptions are embedded in the assessment for all graphics. The type of braille presented to the student (contracted or non-contracted) is set in TIDE. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.

Braille Transcript (ELA Listening Passages): A braille transcript of the closed captioning created for the listening passages. The braille transcripts are available in the following braille codes:

ELA

• UEB uncontracted
• UEB contracted

Students may have difficulty hearing the listening portion of the passages and also do not have enough functional vision to read the closed captioning provided for the passage. These students who are visually impaired or blind and deaf or hard of hearing AND who use braille may have access to Braille Transcripts. These students must be registered in TIDE for both braille and closed captioning. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.

Paper/Pencil Assessment:

A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform). Codes available on paper/pencil:

ELA

• UEB uncontracted
• UEB contracted

Math

• UEB uncontracted with Nemeth
• UEB contracted with Nemeth
• UEB uncontracted with UEB math
• UEB contracted with UEB math

Accommodation (Science):

• UEB

Students with visual impairments may read text via braille. Tactile overlays and graphics also may be used to assist the student in accessing content through touch. The type of braille presented to the student (contracted or non-contracted) is set in TIDE. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.

Designated Feature:

• A student who uses this designated support may need to complete the test in a separate setting to eliminate distractions to other students and to ensure the confidentiality of the test.
• Student responses cannot be scored unless they are recorded according to the procedures outlined in the Basic Transcribing and/or Complex Transcribing policies.
• General information about administering braille tests is available in the STAAR Paper Test Administration Information .
• Online screen reader support for refreshable braille displays includes visually hidden content presented to the screen reader and refreshable braille display only. If a student requires assistance with online screen reader support for refreshable braille displays, including how to access visually hidden content, refer to the Job Access with Speech (JAWS) help screen in Available Tools during an online administration.
• A student taking STAAR using a refreshable braille display will not be able to use the STT feature. Districts should continue to use the same process for transcription used in daily instruction in the classroom. For example, districts may use Dragon speech recognition software to transcribe the student essay.
• Secure test instructions for administering braille tests are shipped with the individual braille test booklets prior to testing. Test administrators must review these instructions prior to test day to ensure that the test is administered properly.

For students taking STAAR braille who are also eligible to receive content and language supports, including students using a refreshable braille display, districts should indicate this eligibility in the Test Mode field of TIDE to receive STAAR with Embedded Supports materials, as there is no request process for TEA to approve STAAR with Embedded Supports. Test administrators will be provided with instructions regarding the administration of content and language supports for students taking a braille test or using screen reader support for refreshable braille displays.

Accommodation:

The following braille paper test book formats may be ordered and downloaded for local printing:

• UEB
  1. ELA and Science
• Mathematics
  1. UEB with Nemeth

There are a variety of ways students can respond to the items on the braille assessment:

• Students may record their responses using Braille on a separate Braille sheet of paper.
• Students may record their responses directly in the Braille version of the test booklet.
• Students may respond to the short-answer and open-ended questions using a word processor (without a spelling or grammar check) and respond to the multiple-choice questions directly in the Braille version of the test booklet.
• Students may use a scribe to write oral responses or fill in bubbles for multiple-choice questions in the answer document.

Accommodation:

Braille tests are available only to students with documented visual impairments. Braille tests are only available in paper formats. A copy of the braille test is provided in regular print to the Test Examiner or Proctor administering the braille test. For details regarding the Braille code used for individual Growth Assessment and SOL tests, refer to the Test Implementation Manuals.

Blind and vision impaired students may use a braille writer as scratch paper to take notes or complete calculations, to respond to the writing prompt of the short-paper component of the Writing test, or to record responses to multiple-choice questions on the Growth Assessment and SOL tests.

Accommodation:

BRAILLE TEST BOOKLET (Non-Embedded). A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform). Students with visual impairments may read text via braille. Tactile overlays and graphics may also be used to assist the student in accessing content through touch.

Accommodation (ELA, Math):

BRAILLE (Embedded). A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform).

Students with visual impairments may read text via braille. Tactile overlays and graphics also may be used to assist the student in accessing content through touch.

BRAILLE TYPE. Refreshable braille is only available for ELA because Nemeth Braille code cannot be supported using refreshable braille. For math, braille will be presented via an embosser; embosser-created braille can also be used for ELA.

EMBOSS: Emboss is selected if an embosser is being used as opposed to using JAWS. Allows braille to be presented via embosser; used for ELA and math when Braille is selected in Presentation. The content of a test determines whether passages and questions are delivered to a Braille embosser or to a Refreshable Braille Display (RBD) via JAWS.

Accommodation (Math):

BRAILLE GRAPHICS. Pre-embossed braille graphics for the online math assessment. Contact Doug Trent at American Printing House at: dtrent@ aph.org.

Accommodation (ELA):

BRAILLE TRANSCRIPT (For ELA Listening Stimuli): A braille transcript of the audio of the listening passages. Braille transcripts are available in UEB contracted and UEB uncontracted.

Students may have difficulty hearing the listening portion of the passage and also do not have enough functional vision to read the closed captioning provided for the passage. Students who are visually impaired or blind and deaf or hard of hearing AND who use braille may have access to braille transcripts.

Accommodation:

A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform). Contracted and non-contracted braille is available; Nemeth code is available for mathematics.

For students who are blind or who have low vision and read braille fluently or choose braille as their primary mode of reading. Students with visual impairments may read text via braille. Tactile overlays and graphics also may be used to assist the student in accessing content through touch. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment. Refreshable braille is available only for ELA because Nemeth Code is not available via refreshable braille. For mathematics, braille will be presented via embosser; embosser-created braille can be used for ELA also. The type of braille presented to the student (contracted or non-contracted) is set in TIDE. The default is always contracted. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.

Paper Braille Test Booklet: This is a contracted braille paper form of the test. Uncontracted braille is not provided unless the WVDE Assessment Services receives a special accommodations request. Braille is a raised dot code individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper, thermoform or refreshable braille display when available). The student uses contracted braille (a system that reduces the number of cells by abbreviating words or parts of words), and Nemeth code braille (a system used to convey technical expressions that occur in mathematics and science).

WVASA notes: Uncontracted braille – Testlets are delivered as .brf files and will need to be embossed by the test administrator.

WVGSA notes:

• Paper braille test editions are ordered prior to the assessment by the county.
• This accommodation cannot be paired with P17 – Braille computer test – computer adaptive test format.
• This accommodation cannot be paired with P35 - Braille computer-based, fixed form, with paper booklet for tactile graphics.
• See Appendix BB. Braille Accommodations Selections and WVGSA for additional guidance on selecting braille-based accommodations.

Braille Computer Test: Use braille for computer-presented testing. This is for students who will use the computer for braille testing including options for refreshable braille displays for ELA or use of embossers to print the test items.

WVGSA notes:

• This accommodation cannot be paired with P03 – Paper Braille Test Booklet.
• The default setting is contracted braille. Uncontracted braille is available and can be locally set.
• For ELA and science, braille will be presented via embosser or refreshable braille display.
• For mathematics, this accommodation requires an embosser which provides access to the tactile graphics.
• The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment.
• The files for the embosser will need to be downloaded and may take additional time to print.
• Only if the student needs to access math problems via a pre-printed-embossed paper booklet for mathematics, additionally select P35 - Braille computer-based fixed form with paper booklet for tactile graphics (available for Math only).
• See Appendix BB. Braille Accommodations Selections and WVGSA for additional guidance on selecting braille-based accommodations.

Braille Computer-Based, Fixed Form, with Paper Booklet for Tactile Graphics (WVGSA mathematics section only): Students who use braille. The mathematics braille booklet provides the tactile graphics necessary for the mathematics portion of the assessment. This will allow the student the opportunity to interact with the assessment via the computer and may decrease the amount of time required for online braille testing. Embossing of the tactile graphics is not required.

The braille math section is an online fixed-form. It is expected that this is a very time efficient way to access information. The tactile graphics are provided (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) in the braille paper booklet. This eliminates the need for embossing numerous mathematics items that are displayed in Nemeth code. Nemeth code is a familiar braille code for mathematics. The use of tactile graphics makes visual content available to a student who is blind or has low vision.

Braille Writer or Tactile to Respond: For this response mode, a student uses a brailler, which is a braille keyboard used for typing braille that can then be printed in standard print or braille (embosser). The brailler is similar to a typewriter or computer keyboard. Paper is inserted into the brailler, and multiple keys are pressed at once, creating braille dots with each press.

WVGSA notes:

• A scribe must transcribe the student’s responses to the testing website using the student’s username and password. (R04)
• A trained examiner acts as a scribe to transcribe student responses to the testing platform.

Accommodation:

A paper copy braille version of the test will be available at each grade level and content area. All tests will be presented in Unified English Braille (UEB) and will follow Nemeth Code for mathematical and scientific notation where appropriate.

In addition to selecting the braille accommodation for a student in the DRC INSIGHT Portal, DACs must order printed braille tests using the “additional materials” request page in the DRC INSIGHT Portal. All student responses must be transcribed into the online testing system (INSIGHT) by the test administrator or other designated person using the student’s test ticket. The test ticket must have BRL next to accommodations to ensure that the online test form and the braille form have matching content for all questions. The printed test must be treated as secure testing material. See the Test Administration Manual on the Forward Exam Resources webpage for more information on the braille process including test security procedures.

Accommodation:

Braille (for use with an embosser for the print-on-demand option):

A raised-dot code that individuals read with the fingertips. Graphic material (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations) is presented in a raised format (paper or thermoform).

ELA

• UEB Contracted

Mathematics and Science

• UEB Contracted with Nemeth Braille Code

Some students with visual impairments may use braille in order to access assessment materials. Tactile overlays and graphics also may be used to assist the student in accessing content through touch. Due to limitations with refreshable braille technology and math braille codes, refreshable braille is available only for ELA. For math, Braille will be presented via embosser; embosser-created braille can be used for ELA also. Alternative text descriptions are embedded in the assessment for all graphics. The type of braille presented to the student (contracted or uncontracted) is set in TIDE. The use of this accommodation may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment. Any portion of the test embossed during testing must be collected and securely destroyed in order to protect the security of the test content.