Which statement best describes using sign language interpreters in standardized testing?

Which statement best describes using sign language interpreters in standardized testing?

• A. Interpreters should replace the test's language demands entirely
• B. Interpreters can modify test content as needed
• C. Interpreters support accessibility by conveying test instructions and content appropriately while not altering the construct being measured
• D. Interpreters are optional if the student can read

Answer: (C)

Interpreters are used to provide access to the test content without changing what the test is trying to measure. The main idea is to convey test instructions and questions in sign language so the student understands them, while preserving the same constructs, difficulty, and content being assessed. When done this way, the test remains fair and valid for all students because everyone is answering items that measure the same skills, not a modified or altered version of the test. So the interpreter’s role is accessibility without altering the measurement. They should not replace the test’s language demands, nor modify the content to change its difficulty, nor give hints. And accessibility isn’t optional for someone who relies on sign language; accommodations ensure the student can access the same assessment within policy.

Interpreters are used to provide access to the test content without changing what the test is trying to measure. The main idea is to convey test instructions and questions in sign language so the student understands them, while preserving the same constructs, difficulty, and content being assessed. When done this way, the test remains fair and valid for all students because everyone is answering items that measure the same skills, not a modified or altered version of the test.

So the interpreter’s role is accessibility without altering the measurement. They should not replace the test’s language demands, nor modify the content to change its difficulty, nor give hints. And accessibility isn’t optional for someone who relies on sign language; accommodations ensure the student can access the same assessment within policy.