Accommodations Toolkit

Large Print: States’ Accessibility Policies, 2023

National Center on Educational Outcomes (NCEO)

This summary of states’ accessibility policies for large print is part of the Accommodations Toolkit published by the National Center on Educational Outcomes (NCEO).[1] The toolkit also contains a summary of the research literature on large print.

Accessibility policies often have several tiers of accessibility features: universal features, designated features, and accommodations.[2] Figure 1 summarizes how states included large print in their accessibility policies for students with disabilities in 2023. Figure 2 summarizes how states included large print in their accessibility policies for English learners in 2023. Table 1 shows how large print was included in the policies, while Table 2 contains additional details and specifications.

Figure 1. States’ Accessibility Policies for Students with Disabilities for Large Print, 2023

Reading/ELA/Writing

  • Universal Features (U): 0 States
  • Designated Features (D): 3 States
  • Accommodations (A): 40 States

Math

  • Universal Features (U): 0 States
  • Designated Features (D): 3 States
  • Accommodations (A): 41 States

Science

  • Universal Features (U): 0 States
  • Designated Features (D): 3 States
  • Accommodations (A): 39 States

Figure 2. States’ Accessibility Policies for English Learners for Large Print, 2023

Reading/ELA/Writing

  • Universal Features (U): 0 States
  • Designated Features (D): 3 States
  • Accommodations (A): 0 States

Math

  • Universal Features (U): 0 States
  • Designated Features (D): 3 States
  • Accommodations (A): 0 States

Science

  • Universal Features (U): 0 States
  • Designated Features (D): 3 States
  • Accommodations (A): 0 States

Table 1. Accommodations Policies for Large Print by State, 2023

U = Universal Feature, D = Designated Feature, A = Accommodation, ELA = English Language Arts, X = Allowed, SD = Allowed for Students with Disabilities, Blank cell = no policy found, N = Notes in Table 2

State

Reading/ELA/Writing

Math

Science

Notes

(See Table 2)

U

D

A

U

D

A

U

D

A

Alabama

SD

SD

SD

N

Alaska

SD

SD

SD

N

Arizona

SD

SD

SD

N

Arkansas

SD

SD

SD

N

California

SD

SD

SD

N

Colorado

SD

SD

SD

N

Connecticut

SD

SD

SD

N

Delaware

SD

SD

SD

N

District of Columbia

SD

SD

SD

N

Florida

SD

SD

SD

N

Georgia

SD

SD

SD

N

Hawaii

Idaho

Illinois

SD

SD

N

Indiana

SD

SD

SD

N

Iowa

X

X

X

N

Kansas

Kentucky

SD

SD

SD

N

Louisiana

SD

N

Maine

SD

SD

SD

Maryland

SD

SD

SD

N

Massachusetts

SD

SD

SD

N

Michigan

SD

SD

SD

N

Minnesota

SD

SD

SD

N

Mississippi

SD

SD

SD

Missouri

SD

SD

SD

N

Montana

Nebraska

SD

SD

SD

N

Nevada

New Hampshire

New Jersey

SD

SD

SD

N

New Mexico

SD

SD

SD

N

New York

SD

SD

SD

N

North Carolina

X

SD

X

SD

X

SD

N

North Dakota

SD

SD

SD

N

Ohio

SD

SD

SD

N

Oklahoma

SD

SD

SD

N

Oregon

Pennsylvania

SD

SD

SD

N

Rhode Island

SD

SD

SD

N

South Carolina

SD

SD

SD

N

South Dakota

SD

SD

SD

N

Tennessee

SD

SD

SD

N

Texas

X

X

X

N

Utah

SD

SD

SD

N

Vermont

SD

SD

SD

N

Virginia

SD

SD

SD

N

Washington

SD

SD

SD

N

West Virginia

SD

SD

SD

N

Wisconsin

Wyoming

SD

SD

SD

Total (Students with Disabilities)

0

3

40

0

3

41

0

3

39

Total (English Learners)

0

3

0

0

3

0

0

3

0

Table 2. Details and Specifications: States’ Large Print Accessibility Policies

State

Details/Specifications

Alabama

Accommodation:

A large print form of the test is provided to a student with a visual impairment. A large print answer document may also be provided. May also be available in Spanish.

Large print test materials (e.g., Student Large Print test booklets) may be provided as an accommodation for students with visual impairments. If the large print form is to be administered, the STC or BTC should have selected the large print accommodation in the DRC INSIGHT Portal for each content area in which the student is receiving the support during the November and January accommodation windows. The accommodation will appear on the student test ticket as “LP”. If the student has a large print accommodation but does not have “LP” 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 large print answer document. Detailed instructions for the administration of a large print test and the recording of student responses in DRC INSIGHT are provided in the ACAP Summative Accessibility Supports and Accommodations Supplement that can be found in the appendix of the Accessibility Supports and Accommodations Policy Manual.

Alaska

Accommodation:

Students may require larger text and graphics. If the magnification tool (see Table 3) is not sufficient, large print materials can be ordered through the test vendor.

Arizona

Accommodation:

Provide a large print paper test booklet. This accommodation requires Adult Transcription: An adult must transfer the student’s responses exactly as written into the TestNav system within the PBT test window. All student responses must be entered in TestNav by the end of the PBT test window. NOTE: Unless a student regularly has reading and math instructional materials enlarged for both diameter and font size, you may consider testing the Zoom feature in the sample tests using TestNav since the test booklets are approximately 18 inches tall, and the font size is 18 pt. ADE will set up the SPV test session in PAN for students approved for a large print test for both CBT and PBT schools.

Arkansas

Accommodation:

Test booklets printed in 18-point font, instead of the standard 10-point font. Recommended Usage: Examinees with visual impairments. Arkansas Policy: Requires completion and approval of the ADE: DESE Special Accommodations Request Form when paired with additional supports other than Dictate Responses to a Scribe. Notes: Requires time for shipment of paper-based materials. A large print test booklet and answer sheet are provided. Responses on the large-print answer document must be transcribed to a standard print answer document for scoring.

The Large Print kit includes:

  • Answer document for the requested grade level and subject
  • Regular-print test booklet for the requested grade level and subject
  • Large print test booklet for the requested grade level and subject
  • Instruction sheet

California

Accommodation:

A student can use a large-print special form for ELA, mathematics, CAST, and the ELPAC. An LEA must request approval from the CDE to qualify for these printed materials.

Colorado

Accommodation:

Large print paper-based forms are available for students as documented in their IEP or 504 plans. The large print test is packaged as a kit. The enlarged print test books are printed in full color on ivory paper. Test questions are printed in 18-point font; graphics are enlarged. The large print test books are spiral-bound, and the dimensions of the books are 14 inches by 18 inches. The following contents may be included in the large print kits (varies by grade level, content area, and need):

  • Student
    • Large Print Test Book
    • Visual Descriptions Document – As needed, separate visual descriptions are automatically included in the large print test kits. These picture descriptions describe select images or graphics in the student’s test book.
    • Math only
      • Protractor (grades 4-7 only)
      • Ruler
      • Large Print Math Reference Sheets (grades 5-8 only)
    • Science only
      • Large Print Periodic Table (high school only)
      • Magnifier Sheet – Included to increase font size as not all text on the science materials meets the 18-point font minimum.
  • Teacher
    • Transcription Instructions
    • Standard Print Test Book for Transcription

Test Administrators must transcribe student answers into the standard print test book provided in the large print kit which is returned to the vendor for scoring. Student work and/or answers that are not transcribed are not scored. See 6.1.6 Transcription Instructions. Note: Students should be familiar with the use of large print and large paper-based test books as part of their regular instruction and classroom testing environment.

Connecticut

Accommodation:

This accommodation is a fixed-form test booklet that provides enlarged content. It is typically used by students who have visual disabilities. Students using this accommodation will not have access to the adaptive version of the assessment and may require additional time for the assessment. These students are typically supported with Large Print or visual supports documented in their IEP or Section 504 Plan. Large Print must be set in TIDE prior to testing and material must be ordered in TIDE by the District Administrator for testing prior to test administration.

Delaware

Accommodation:

Large Print paper versions are available to students with visual impairments. Complete a Unique Accommodations request.

District of Columbia

Accommodation:

Before Testing:

  • Identification for SR/PNP: Student’s SR/PNP must have Large Print Edition selected.
  • Materials: Large Print Test Kit includes a large print assessment booklet, standard test booklet or answer document for transcription, Test Administrator large print scripts, and supplementary large print mathematics materials (large print ruler & protractor), when appropriate.
  • Test Administrator Training: Test Administrators of students with visual impairments must review:
    • Appendix M: PARCC and DC Science Assessments for Students with Visual Impairment, Including Blindness.
    • Appendix A: Accessibility Features and Accommodations for Students Taking the Paper-Based PARCC and DC Science Assessments.

During Testing: A large print paper-based form of each assessment is available for a student with a visual impairment who is unable to take a computer-based assessment. The font size for the large print edition will be 18 point on paper sized 14" x 18". Students will not record their answers in standard print test booklets or answer documents. Instead, students will circle their answers in a large print test booklet. For constructed response items, students will write their answers on the lines provided in their large print test booklets. In mathematics, students will need to write their answers in boxes at the top of the answer grids, but they do not need to bubble in their answers. Test Administrators should refer to the TAM Scripts for instances where they should demonstrate an activity or display information. Demonstrations should be conducted where they are visible for each student (e.g., on the board, near the student).

After Testing:

  • Responses must be transcribed verbatim by a Test Administrator in a standard student test booklet or answer document, which is included in the Large Print Test Kit (PARCC) or an online test session in TestNav (DC Science). Only transcribed responses will be scored. At least two persons must be present during transcription of student responses (one transcriber and one observer confirming accuracy). It is recommended that one of the individuals be an LEA or School Test Coordinator.
  • Refer to Appendix C: Protocol for the Use of the Scribe Accommodation and for Transcribing Student Responses.

Florida

Accommodation:

A large print paper version of the test may be requested for a student. The minimum font size for large print test materials is 18 points. Student eligibility for large print test materials must be submitted to FDOE.

Georgia

Accommodation:

Enlarged font (online magnification and scaling preferred; large print form available due to a student’s documented disability preventing access to a computer).

Illinois

Accommodation (ELA, Math):

Before Testing:

  • Identification for SR/PNP: Student’s SR/PNP must have Large Print Edition selected.
  • Materials: Large Print Test Kit includes a large print assessment booklet, standard test booklet or answer document for transcription, Test Administrator large print scripts, and supplementary large print mathematics materials (large print ruler & protractor), when appropriate.
  • Test Administrator Training: Test Administrators of students with visual impairments must review:
    • Appendix K: Illinois Assessment of Readiness for Students with Visual Impairment, Including Blindness.
    • Appendix A: Accessibility Features and Accommodations for Students Taking the Paper-Based Illinois Assessment of Readiness.

During Testing: A large print paper-based form of each assessment is available for a student with a visual impairment who is unable to take a computer-based assessment. The font size for the large print edition will be 18 point on paper sized 14" x 18". Students will not record their answers in standard print test booklets or answer documents. Instead, students will circle their answers in a large print test booklet. For constructed response items, students will write their answers on the lines provided in their large print test booklets. In mathematics, students will need to write their answers in boxes at the top of the answer grids, but they do not need to bubble in their answers. Test Administrators should refer to the Test Administrator Manual Scripts for instances where they should demonstrate an activity or display information. Demonstrations should be conducted where they are visible for each student (e.g., on the board, near the student).

After Testing:

  • Responses must be transcribed verbatim by a Test Administrator in a standard student test booklet or answer document, which is included in the Large Print Test Kit. Only transcribed responses will be scored. At least two persons must be present during transcription of student responses (one transcriber and one observer confirming accuracy). It is recommended that one of the individuals be a District Test Coordinator or School Test Coordinator.
  • Refer to Appendix C: Protocol for the Use of the Scribe Accommodation and for Transcribing Student Responses.

Indiana

Accommodation:

Large-print assessment booklets are printed in 18 pt. font. The online print size may be changed to 24 pt., 31 pt., 41 pt., or 51 pt. with larger options available when also using streamline format. Adjusting the online print size may be more appropriate than using a large-paper booklet.

Iowa

Designated Feature:

A large print version of the paper test will be created and distributed to students who have been identified as requiring a printed large print assessment. Recommendations for Use: Students with visual impairments who may not be able to use zoom or magnifying devices to access the test may need a paper large print version of the form.

Kentucky

Accommodation:

There is a zoom function available in TestNav for anyone who needs to enlarge the text. For any student who requires the test in Large Print there will be paper and pencil kits available for order. The Quality of School Climate and Safety (QSCS) Survey will be included in the Large Print test booklet. The Large Print orders will be placed in PearsonAccess Next via additional orders only. For information on how to order Large Print materials in PearsonAccess Next, see the Ordering Paper Materials section of this manual.

Louisiana

Accommodation (Math):

Large Print Test Materials – Math Spanish: A hardcopy Large Print Math Spanish form is available for students with a visual impairment who are unable to take a standard print paper-based or online assessment. Materials: Large Print Math Spanish Kit. Before Testing: A Large Print Math Spanish Kit must be ordered via the eDIRECT Additional Materials system and be on-hand before the start of testing. During Testing: Students will not record their responses in a standard print consumable test booklet. Instead, students will mark their responses in the Large Print form. After Testing: Student responses must be transcribed verbatim into a standard print consumable test booklet, which is included in the Large Print Math Spanish Kit. Only responses transcribed into a standard print consumable test booklet will be scored. The Transferred Answers accommodation must be bubbled in either the Special Education Student Test Accommodation(s) field or the Test Accommodation(s) for Students with Disabilities According to Section 504 field on the student’s consumable test booklet.

Maryland

Accommodation:

Large print materials are produced larger than the print used in regular print materials. While regular print materials range from 8-12 points font size, large print materials are produced in 18-point font or larger. Most large print materials are enlarged in size from the regular print on a copier machine. Large print can also be produced digitally by reformatting the font size, font style, spacing, and page layout. Care must be taken when enlarging mathematics and science materials. Pages that have graphics that are to scale for measuring tasks must be enlarged so the print on the page (questions, answer choices, measurement labels) is large, but the graphic must not be enlarged, remaining to scale so the student using large print has the same measurements as students using regular print. Students who are visually impaired must have an assessment of their learning/literacy medium to determine if large print is the most appropriate medium. This assessment will determine the optimal print size to provide access to materials and maximize literacy. Students who are not visually impaired can also use large print materials if data show that the use of large print improved their performance in reading skills (i.e., comprehension, fluency). The use of large print does not necessarily help students with visual tracking or reading difficulties. When selecting large print materials, consider the weight and size of the books, access to the selected medium, and student performance. Large print in electronic formats can be provided by enlarging font size or percent of view. Current online assessments may have the capability to enlarge font size. Before Testing: Some online assessments may require a “Large Print Test Kit,” with supplementary large print materials (large print ruler). During Testing: See the specific assessments in the Test Administrator Manual for instructions on recording student responses, for both selected and constructed response items. After Testing: If the student is recording their answers directly in the Large Print Test Booklet, then responses must be transcribed verbatim by a Testing Coordinator with another person not the Test Administrator. This should include two certified Test Administrators under the direction and supervision of the STC. The STC should refer to the scribe protocol for the individual assessment.

Massachusetts

Accommodation:

Large print (approximately 18-point font size on 11x17-inch paper)

  • All responses in the large-print booklet must be transcribed verbatim from the large-print booklet to the student’s combined test & answer booklet (or standard answer booklet for certain tests) and returned according to instructions in the PAM, so that the student will receive credit.
  • Large-print special instructions will accompany the large-print test.
  • Students may either use the large-print booklet to respond to test questions, in which case the answers will need to be transcribed, either by the student (at the time of testing) or a test administrator (anytime during the testing window); OR the student may write answers directly in the test & answer booklet. IEPs and 504 plans should indicate how students taking the large-print test will record their answers.

Michigan

Accommodation:

Students with visual impairments and other print disabilities may use an enlarged version of the paper/pencil assessment. The use of this support may result in the student needing additional overall time to complete the assessment. Refer to the Test Administrator Manual for information related to transcribing and returning these materials. Form 1 is used as the basis for the enlarged print version of the M-STEP and MI-Access assessments. Students who use this form of the assessment must have their answers transferred onto a regular answer document. If a student uses an enlarged print version as an Accommodation, a test administrator, proctor, or accommodations provider may need to transcribe the student’s response from the enlarged print test booklet onto a regular answer document that is returned along with other scorable materials. Spelling, punctuation, indentation, etc., must be transcribed exactly as presented in the student’s original response. Once student responses have been transcribed to a regular answer document, the original document can be returned in a non-scorable box. Refer to the relevant Test Administration Manuals for additional details.

Minnesota

Accommodation:

A large print test book is for students with low vision who need an increased font size to see the test items. Large print test books are available in 18-point and 24-point fonts. The applicable 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. All student responses must be entered online by district staff within the testing window. Refer to Entering Student Responses Online for MCA Paper Accommodations earlier in this chapter. Note: Paper test books (12, 18, 24, BC, or BU) cannot be used together.

Missouri

Accommodation:

Students who have low vision and have this accommodation in their IEP/504 plan may access the assessment via a Large Print version. Please Note: Answers from students who access the assessment using the Large Print format must be entered into the INSIGHT student platform prior to shipping the Large Print assessment back. Please follow the instructions found in the manuals. This accommodation must be chosen in the Portal under student accommodations prior to testing.

Nebraska

Accommodation:

A large print form of the test that is provided to the student with a visual impairment. A student may respond directly into test booklet. Test administrator transfers answers onto answer document. Students with visual impairments who may not be able to use zoom or magnifying devices to access the test and may need a large print version of the form.

New Jersey

Accommodation:

Before Testing:

  • Test Session: Students must be placed in a Transcription English test session. Schools must create a Transcription English test session in PearsonAccess Next. Important Note: Failure to create a Transcription test session will result in the student not receiving a valid scale score.
  • Identification for SR/PNP: Student’s SR/PNP must have Large Print Edition selected.
  • Materials: Large Print Test Kit includes a large print assessment test booklet and supplementary large print materials (large print reference sheet, ruler & protractor or large print periodic table), as appropriate.
  • Test Administrator Training: Test Administrators of students with visual impairments must review:
    • Appendix J: NJSLA and NJGPA for Students with Visual Impairments, Including Blindness.
    • Appendix A: Accessibility Features and Accommodations for Students Taking the Paper-Based NJSLA and NJGPA.

During Testing: A large print paper-based form of each assessment is available for a student with a visual impairment who is unable to take a computer-based assessment. The font size for the NJSLA and NJGPA large print edition will be 18 point on paper sized 14" x 18". Students will record their answers (including constructed responses) directly into the large print edition test booklet. In mathematics, students will need to write their answers in boxes at the top of the answer grids, but they do not need to bubble in their answers. Test Administrators should refer to the TAM Scripts for instances where they should demonstrate an activity or display information. Demonstrations should be conducted where they are visible for each student (e.g., on the board, near the student).

After Testing:

  • Responses must be transcribed verbatim by a Test Administrator into the Transcription English test session. Important Note: Failure to transcribe student responses into the Transcription English test session will result in the student not receiving a valid scale score.
  • At least two persons must be present during the transcription of student responses (one transcriber and one observer confirming accuracy). It is recommended that one of the individuals be a District Test Coordinator or School Test Coordinator. Refer to Appendix C: Protocol for the Use of the Scribe Accommodation and for Transcribing Student Responses.

New Mexico

Accommodation:

A large print paper-based form of each assessment is available for a student with a visual impairment who is unable to take a computer-based assessment. The font size for the large print edition will be 18-point on paper sized 11" x 17". Students will not record their answers in standard print test booklets or answer documents. Instead, students will circle their answers in a large print test booklet. For constructed response items, students will write their answers on the lines provided in their large print test booklets. In mathematics, students will need to write their answers in boxes at the top of the answer grids, but they do not need to bubble in their answers. Test Administrators should refer to the TAM Scripts for instances where they should demonstrate an activity or display information. Demonstrations should be conducted where they are visible for each student (e.g., on the board, near the student). Responses must be transcribed verbatim by a Test Administrator in a standard student test booklet or answer document, which is included in the Large Print Test Kit. Only transcribed responses will be scored. At least two persons must be present during transcription of student responses (one transcriber and one observer confirming accuracy). It is recommended that one of the individuals be a District Test Coordinator or School Test Coordinator. Refer to Appendix B: Protocol for the Use of the Scribe Accommodation and for Transcribing Student Responses.

New York

Accommodation:

Braille and large-type test booklets are available for all assessments and exams and may be requested through the online examination request system.

North Carolina

Designated Feature (Computer-based testing):

Large Font: Large font is available online for students who need a font size beyond the standard, 12-point Verdana. To allow the student access to large font on the test, it must be selected in the student's SIQ before test day. The online large font size is 18-point Verdana.

Accommodation (Paper-based testing):

Large Print Edition: The Large Print Edition accommodation is not applicable for online tests because the font size can be designated as large font for any student before the test administration. For tests delivered online, the font size is twelve-point Verdana for standard test forms and eighteen-point Verdana for large font tests. However, these are print measurements, and computer screen resolution and size settings can affect the size of fonts on screen. If the size of the large font is not large enough for a student with visual impairments, the large font option may be used in conjunction with the Magnification Devices accommodation, or a large print edition of the paper test may be ordered. Description: The Large Print Edition accommodation allows a student to take an enlarged version of the test. The Annual Testing Program’s standard test forms are printed on 8.5" x 11" paper, using twelve-point Verdana font. The Annual Testing Program’s large print edition tests are printed on 11" x 17" paper, using twenty-two-point Verdana font. The large print editions are printed one-sided and come stapled. When a test item requires superscript or subscript, the text of the superscript and subscript is in twenty-two-point Verdana font, and the text in the question and answer containing them is enlarged to thirty-three-point Verdana font. The graph paper included with the large print edition is comprised of 1/2-inch squares. Students will mark their responses to questions directly on the large print edition of the test. Ordering large print editions: Orders for large print editions must be entered into the public school unit-approved accommodations management system (i.e., ECATS, PowerSchool, or a public school unit-approved third-party application) at the time of the IEP team’s or Section 504 committee’s annual meeting. Testing accommodations information must be accurate in the accommodations management system to ensure students receive the appropriate accommodations on the day of testing. To ensure adequate test material production, quality control of test materials, and timely delivery of the paper formats, the PSU test coordinator must order them through the TNN ordering page as soon as the ordering system is available. Large print editions can be ordered from TNN and do not require an Accommodation Request to be submitted to the Annual Testing Program. Large print editions other than those specified in this handbook, must be requested via an Accommodation Request. Orders for large print editions will automatically be accompanied by the appropriate accommodated supplemental materials (e.g., large print graph paper). Large print/one test item per page editions printed on 11" x 17" paper in twenty-two-point Verdana font can also be ordered from TNN and do not require an Accommodation Request to be submitted to the Annual Testing Program. Large print/one test item per page editions in a font size other than twenty-two-point Verdana must be requested via an Accommodation Request. Considerations: Students with visual impairments may require additional time to complete the test. Research has shown that “students with low vision are 1.5 to 2 times slower compared to sighted students” (Gompel, van Bon, & Schreuder, 2004). If this is the case for a student, it may be necessary to consider the Scheduled Extended Time accommodation, the Multiple Testing Sessions accommodation, or both. Using a large print edition in the regular classroom: Some students with impaired vision may be able to take the large print edition test in the regular classroom if responses can be recorded in a manner that does not disturb other students (e.g., positioned in such a way that test questions and answers are not visible to others). Preparations must be made before the test administration to accommodate these students. Record the student’s name on the large print edition: The student’s full name and a second identifier (e.g., PowerSchool Student Number) must be written legibly on the front cover of the large print edition. The recorded information must uniquely identify the student. Transcribing student responses: For information on transcribing student responses refer to the Transcription Instructions section of this handbook. The test administrator or principal’s designee must purge any electronic files associated with the test administration immediately following the completion of the transcription process. Returning large print editions: The PSU must follow the procedures in the North Carolina Test Coordinator’s Policies and Procedures Handbook regarding returning (1) large print editions of state tests, (2) original student responses recorded in a manner other than in the test book (e.g., assistive technology device), and (3) original scribe recordings of student responses that were not recorded directly into the online testing system (e.g., scribe records responses on a separate sheet of paper and transcribes after the testing session). Error report: If errors in the large print edition are discovered, a Print Format Error Report Form, which is obtained from the PSU test coordinator, must be completed and submitted to the Annual Testing Program via TOPS. See Appendix G of this handbook for a sample Print Format Error Report Form.

The IEP team or Section 504 committee may wish to address the following questions when determining whether the Large Print Edition accommodation is appropriate for the student: 1. Does the student routinely use large print materials during classroom instruction and similar classroom tests? 2. How will the student record responses to the large print edition of the test (e.g., mark in the test book, use a braille writer, dictate to a scribe, or use assistive technology), and are all accompanying accommodations documented in the IEP or Section 504 Plan? 3. Does the student need the Magnification Devices accommodation? 4. For tests available online, is the large font option more appropriate than the Large Print Edition accommodation? 5. Does the student need the Scheduled Extended Time accommodation, the Multiple Testing Sessions accommodation, or both? 6. Does the student need an edition that is both large print and one test item per page? If so, a large print/one test item per page edition can be ordered from TNN and does not require an Accommodation Request to be submitted to the Annual Testing Program. The IEP team or Section 504 committee should be aware that the combination of these accommodations produces a large document, both in the size of paper (same size paper [11" x 17"] as the large print edition) and in the number of pages. 7. The standard large print edition uses twenty-two-point Verdana font. The IEP team or Section 504 committee, if considering another font size, should determine whether the student requires a minimal increase or decrease in font size. If a larger font is required, has the team considered using the standard large print edition in conjunction with the Magnification Devices accommodation?

North Dakota

Accommodation:

A large-print form of the test that is provided to the student with a visual impairment. Students with visual impairments who may not be able to use zoom or magnifying devices to access the test and may need a large-print version of their particular test form.

Ohio

Accommodation:

Large print test booklet is a presentation accommodation for students with visual impairments who require large print materials. The large print test booklets are 8.5-x-11 inches and printed in 18-point type. Refer to the Test Administration Manual for more information about administering a test through human read-aloud.

Oklahoma

Accommodation:

Alternate Formats (Large-Print Version): This can be administered in small group or large group as long as the student is marking their answers in the test booklet and the Test Administrator transcribes the answers after the test session. The directions from the Test Administration Manual must match the type of test the student is taking. Large print documents will be printed in a minimum of 18-point type (14-point minimum for SAT). Check with the assessment vendor for exact specifications. The Test Administrator must transcribe student answers verbatim into the standard answer document/test book that was provided in the large-print (paper/pencil) or Braille kit.

Pennsylvania

Accommodation (Presentation):

Must be transcribed into regular answer booklet. 18-point font; exact replica of standard test pages; extra-large size test booklet. Not available for Spanish-English version. Math measurement graphics are not enlarged. An enlarged ruler is not provided. Students should use a high contrast or tactile ruler as used in instruction. Test must be ordered through DRC; may not be enlarged locally. Regular answer booklet and enlarged print test booklet must be returned to DRC.

Accommodation (Response):

Responses written in enlarged test booklet must be transcribed into regular answer booklet by testing coordinator or designee. Enlarged print booklets are not scored and must be returned to DRC after transcribing responses. Student must use own high contrast ruler/protractor or magnification for measurement graphics.

Rhode Island

Accommodation (ELA, Math):

Students may either use the large-print booklet to respond to test questions, in which case the student’s answers will need to be transcribed by the test administrator (anytime during the test window) into the standard answer booklet, OR the student may write answers directly in the standard answer booklet. Indicate in the student’s IEP/504 how they will record their answers.

  • 18-point font size on 11x17 paper.
  • Transcribe all responses from the large-print booklet to the student’s standard answer booklet and return according to instructions in the Test Coordinator Manual.
  • Special instructions will accompany the large-print test.

Accommodation (Science):

The large print edition of the NGSA test is 18-point font on 11x17-inch paper. Students record their answers in the large print answer booklet. Order all paper test editions through the NGSA TIDE. Transcribe all responses from the large-print answer booklet into the Data Entry Interface (DEI). All student responses must be entered into the DEI or they will not be scored.

South Carolina

Accommodation:

A large print form of the test that is provided to the student with a visual impairment. Students with visual impairments who may not be able to use zoom or magnifying devices to access the test and may need a large print version of the form.

South Dakota

Accommodation:

A large print paper form of the test that is provided to the student with a visual impairment. This accommodation is appropriate for a very small number of students. Students with visual impairments who may not be able to use zoom or magnifying devices to access the online test may need a large print paper test.

Tennessee

Accommodation:

Before testing: Test administrator ensures that a braille kit or large print test has been ordered for the student.

Texas

Designated Feature:

This designated support provides a student with enlarged paper test materials when the student cannot effectively access test materials in standard print size.

A student may use this designated support if the student:

  • routinely and effectively uses large-print materials, including textbooks, worksheets, etc., during classroom instruction and classroom testing in place of digital materials because the tools available to enlarge text and images online do not provide adequate support; and
  • meets at least one of the following three criteria:
    • the student has an impairment in vision (e.g., uncorrected vision, nystagmus, qualifies for special education services with a vision impairment);
    • the student cannot accurately track letter to letter, word to word, or line to line; or
    • the student has a physical disability which necessitates the use of large-print materials.

Utah

Accommodation:

Students with visual impairments or other print disabilities may need assistance viewing content. Access for students with visual needs is typically provided through enlarging content. Large print paper assessments may no longer be needed in computer‐based testing if magnification of the entire screen and/or magnification of select areas is available. Larger monitors may also aid students in computer‐based assessments. Large‐print editions of instructional materials are required for some students with visual impairments or print disabilities. All text and graphic materials including labels and captions on pictures, diagrams, maps, charts, exponential numbers, notes, and footnotes must be presented in at least 18‐point size font for students who need large print. Students, working with their teachers, need to find an optimal print size and determine the smallest print that can still be read (copyright issues may need to be addressed). Large print is printed onsite, through the print on request feature. It is recommended to print on 8½” x 11” paper.

Vermont

Accommodation:

Before Testing: Update in ADAM. On Accommodations Page under Form-Based Accommodations, select the checkbox next to Large Print. Or, update via the Student Accommodation Upload file. Refer to the Vermont Student Accommodation Upload Values 2023 document for field name descriptions and accepted values. Materials needed: The large-print packet should be ordered from the vendor prior to the testing. The packet includes a large-print instructions sheet, a large-print test booklet, and a standard-sized test booklet. Students who had this accommodation entered prior to March 8 will automatically have materials shipped to the school. After that date please contact the Vermont Service Desk to order paper material (in addition to selecting the accommodation in ADAM). During testing: The large-print test booklet is 11” × 17”. Students should respond directly in the booklet. After testing: Student responses recorded in the Braille materials must be entered into the TestNav8 online testing platform as outlined in the “Paper-Based Testing Online Entry of Student Responses” section of the TAM.

Virginia

Accommodation (Presentation):

Large-print tests are available primarily for students who have a documented visual impairment. The large-print Growth Assessment and SOL test forms are designed to ensure that students with visual impairments can access test content as documented in the IEP or 504 Plan. The font type for the large-print test is Tahoma and the font size is 18-20 pt. Any text embedded in graphics, maps, tables, or charts is enlarged proportionately to the size of the item. A copy of the large-print test is provided in regular print to the Examiner or Proctor administering the test.

Accommodation (Response):

Enlarged Copy of Answer Document: Available with paper tests only. The student marks responses on an enlarged copy of the answer document. Note: It is the school division’s responsibility to provide the enlarged answer document for the student.

Washington

Accommodation:

A large print paper form of the test that is provided to the student with a visual impairment. The font size for the large print form is 18 point on paper sized 11 x 17. Students with visual impairments who may not be able to use zoom or magnifying devices to access the online test may benefit by having access to a large print paper test. This accommodation is appropriate for a very small number of students.

West Virginia

Accommodation:

Description: The student uses a large print paper version of the assessment.

Instructional practices: Students who need a large print paper version for access.

When to select: For a student who needs a large print paper version of the assessment due to a vision impairment.

Notes for implementation:

  • Any paper-based books must be ordered by the CTC.

WVGSA notes:

  • All text and graphic materials, including labels and captions on pictures, diagrams, maps, charts, exponential numbers, notes, and footnotes, are presented in at least 18-point type for students who need large print.
  • The large print version does not contain contrast and is useful for students who have vision impairment or have difficulty in discriminating shades of contrast in graphs and charts.
  • Student responses must be transcribed through the DEI to the test administration system by the trained scribe upon completion of testing session.
  • If this accommodation is selected, the student must complete the entire test as a paper-tester. There are no “hybrid” options available such as completing the ELA online and the Math via paper testing.

Attribution

All rights reserved. Any or all portions of this document may be reproduced and distributed without prior permission, provided the source is cited as:

  • Quanbeck, M., & Lazarus, S. S. (2023). Large print: States’ accessibility policies, 2023 (NCEO Accommodations Toolkit #20b.1). National Center on Educational Outcomes.

NCEO is supported through a Cooperative Agreement (#H326G210002) with the Research to Practice Division, Office of Special Education Programs, U.S. Department of Education. The Center is affiliated with the Institute on Community Integration at the College of Education and Human Development, University of Minnesota. Consistent with EDGAR §75.62, the contents of this report were developed under the Cooperative Agreement from the U.S. Department of Education, but do not necessarily represent the policy or opinions of the U.S. Department of Education or Offices within it. Readers should not assume endorsement by the federal government. Project Officer: David Egnor