“What accommodations are allowable for ELs?  

Word-to word translation dictionaries, without definitions, pictures, or internet connection. This accommodation is available for the Mathematics PSSA or Algebra I Keystone and the Science PSSA or Biology Keystone only. It is not available for any part of the ELA PSSA or Literature Keystone Exam:

• What kinds of dictionaries can be used and who provides them? LEAs may provide students with word-to-word translation dictionaries and translation sheets without definitions or pictures if students use them as part of their regular curriculum. Students should be comfortable using word-to-word dictionaries and have used them in the past at school and/or at home. Students should not be exposed to word-to-word dictionaries for the first time when they take the test. Students may not use a word-to-word dictionary for the ELA PSSA or Keystone Literature Exam.

• Do you have a list of distributors? Yes. Appendix A is a list of distributors (provided by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education). The SAC is responsible for ensuring that all bilingual dictionaries meet State Assessment requirements as listed above.

• Can word-to-word translation sheets be used? Yes. Students may use a published version of a subject and grade-level specific word to-word translation sheet if students use them as part of their regular curriculum. Students should be comfortable using word-to-word translation sheets and have used 3 Revised September 2024 them in the past at school and/or at home. Students should not be exposed to word-to-word translation sheets for the first time when they take the test. These can be used in addition to a word-to-word dictionary. Students may use word-to-word translation sheets with no definitions and no pictures for the Mathematics PSSA or Algebra I Keystone and the Science PSSA or Biology Keystone only, and not for any part of the ELA PSSA or Literature Keystone Exam. See Appendix A for free, printable, grade and subject specific translation sheets.

• When can students use dictionaries? Word-to-word dictionaries may be used by ELs on any portion of the Mathematics PSSA or Algebra I Keystone and the Science PSSA or Biology Keystone. Word-to-word dictionaries may not be used on any portion of the ELA PSSA or Literature Keystone Exam.” 
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