Tests of Adult Basic Education (TABE)

Purpose: To assess reading and language (grammar, mechanics, usage) skills in low-literate adult native speakers of English.

Target: Adult native speakers of English in adult basic education programs (ABE) and adult secondary education (ASE) programs; sometimes used with high-level ESL students.

Method and format: Group administration; multiple choice questions.

Content: The TABE assesses skills taught in grades 1-12. The reading sub-test tests reading ability in life skills and academic contexts, including reading maps, tables, and forms. The language sub-test measures the ability to use language in communication on the job and in daily life. The spelling sub-test separates spelling from reading and vocabulary.

Administration time: Reading, 50 minutes; language, 40 minutes; spelling, 10 minutes.

The survey form of the test is half the length and takes half the time; it is used for placement.

Levels and scoring: Tests are available at five levels corresponding to grade levels: L (limited literacy), E (easy), M (medium), D (difficult), A (advanced). A Locator test is used to determine which test to give each student. Scores are correlated with grade levels. Scale scores are also available.

Reliability/validity: "Validity refers to how well a test measures what it is designed to measure. When creating TABE, the CTB/McGraw-Hill developers conducted a comprehensive review of adult curricula and met with experts to determine common educational goals, plus the knowledge and skills emphasized in these curricula. TABE items were then designed to measure this instructional content. TABE has been statistically correlated to the GED tests, and its content has been mapped to the NALS literacy categories and the SCANS competencies. Reliability refers to the consistency of test results. A reliable test produces scores that are similar when the test is administered repeatedly under the same conditions, i.e., standardization conditions.

The TABE Survey yields a reliable estimate of an individual’s overall achievement. CTB recommends the TABE Complete Battery be used when accurate scores for individual sub-tests (subject areas) are required, or when it is necessary to demonstrate that an individual has mastered specific objectives. Data related to the standardization, norming, and reliability of TABE can be found in the TABE Technical Report" (publisher’s statement).

Number of forms: Two (forms 7 & 8) at each level; newer forms 9 & 10 also available

Grade level correspondences on these forms differ from those on the earlier forms, 5 & 6.

Materials available: Examiner's manual, test coordinator's handbook, technical report, norms book.

CTB/McGraw-Hill
20 Ryan Ranch Road
Monterey, CA 93940
800-538-9547
http://www.ctb.com/