WIDA
What is WIDA? 
WIDA is an assessment tool used by the Michigan Department of Education to assess language proficiency for Multilingual Learners (MLs).
What are the WIDA Standards?
A framework that distinguishes five levels of language proficiency which are defined by specific criteria: Entering, Emerging, Developing, Expanding, and Bridging. Level 6 (Reaching) represents the end of the continuum rather than another level of language proficiency.
- English Language Development Standard 1: English language learners communicate for Social and Instructional purposes within the school setting
- English Language Development Standard 2: English language learners communicate information, ideas, and concepts necessary for academic success in the content area of Language Arts
- English Language Development Standard 3: English language learners communicate information, ideas, and concepts necessary for academic success in the content area of Mathematics
- English Language Development Standard 4: English language learners communicate information, ideas, and concepts necessary for academic success in the content area of Science
- English Language Development Standard 5: English language learners communicate information, ideas, and concepts necessary for academic success in the content area of Social Studies
WIDA Development Standards Framework - 2020 Edition
The WIDA English Language Development (ELD) Standards Framework, 2020 Edition serves as a resource for planning and implementing language curriculum, instruction and assessment for Multilingual Learners.
This comprehensive manual includes an in-depth explanation of the ELD Standards Framework, Grade-Level Cluster Materials, and additional Resources.
Watch the introductory video here
Access and download the PDF here
For more resources visit WIDA Development Standards Page
Can Do Descriptors
Important Dates
As WIDA is a State-Mandated Test, there are set dates and deadlines provided by the State of Michigan Department of Education.
WIDA Assessment Resources
For a collection of WIDA assessment and related resources you can visit the Bilingual Department WIDA Google Drive. Otherwise the following documents and manuals are available to assist you with WIDA assessment.
New to WIDA - an introductory guide
Michigan Test Administration Manual
Requesting Access Directions - To request access to the OEAA Secure Site
WIDA Standards Framework: Student Assets for Learning
Translated WIDA Materials
Explaining ELL Status
Arabic I Dari | English | Pashto | Somali | Spanish | Ukrainian | Vietnamese
What Is Language Testing?
Arabic I Dari | English | Pashto | Somali | Spanish | Vietnamese
Guiding Principles of Language Development
Arabic | English | Somali | Spanish | Vietnamese
Illustrated Guiding Principles of Language Development
Arabic | English | Somali | Spanish | Vietnamese
What Is ACCESS for ELLs?
Arabic | Dari | English | Pashto | Somali | Spanish | Ukrainian | Vietnamese
ACCESS for ELLs: Understanding Your Child's Scores
Arabic | Dari | English | Pashto | Somali | Spanish | Ukrainian | Vietnamese
Alternate ACCESS for ELLs: Understanding Your Child's Scores
Arabic | English | Somali | Spanish | Ukrainian | Vietnamese
Family Connections Through Home Languages
If you have questions or need assistance regarding WIDA testing, please contact the District Assessment Coordinator - Francisca Kidder: francisca.kidder@lansingschools.net
