Test Framework for Paraprofessional with Instructional Support

Domain I: Literacy Components

The Literacy domain of the Paraprofessional with Instructional Support (519) framework represents approximately 25% of the total test score and covers competencies 0001 through 0003. This area focuses on the foundational skills required to read and comprehend text effectively.

Competency 0001 addresses the understanding of word structure and context clues. This includes using word structural elements such as prefixes, suffixes, root words, and compound words to determine meaning. It also emphasizes using word order and arrangement within the context of a paragraph or passage to ascertain the meaning of words and phrases. A significant portion involves figurative language, specifically the ability to determine the meaning of similes, metaphors, and idioms. Furthermore, this competency covers identifying and using words with multiple meanings, synonyms, antonyms, and homonyms within individual sentences or paragraphs.

Competency 0002 focuses on the main idea and supporting details. It requires identifying the stated or implied purpose of a writer for a specific audience. Candidates must determine the main idea of a passage and use the content and phrasing to discern the writer's perspective or point of view. Methods for identifying these elements include summarizing, examining the first and last sentences, and sequencing vocabulary words. The competency also distinguishes between key details that illustrate or elaborate on the main idea and details that are unrelated to the text's primary focus.

Competency 0003 encompasses basic comprehension skills. It requires the ability to distinguish between statements of fact and expressions of opinion. It also involves drawing reasonable conclusions and making relevant inferences from stated or implied information. Candidates must demonstrate knowledge of the organizational elements of expository and other nonfiction texts, as well as the elements of fiction and narrative texts. Additionally, this section covers the interpretation and evaluation of information presented in charts, tables, diagrams, maps, and other graphic forms.

Domain II: Language Arts Standards

The Language Arts domain constitutes 25% of the test score and includes competencies 0004 through 0006. This domain focuses on the mechanics and application of standard written English.

Competency 0004 covers standard written English usage, requiring knowledge of spelling rules and commonly misspelled words. It includes the rules of capitalization for proper nouns, such as names, titles, and places, and the standard use of punctuation marks. It also addresses the rules of standard English verb usage and the spelling variations associated with different verb tenses.

Competency 0005 defines grammatical structure, focusing on the standard use of nouns, pronouns, verb forms, adjectives, and adverbs. A critical component is subject-verb agreement. The competency also requires the identification of basic grammatical errors within standard written English texts.

Competency 0006 identifies the elements of effective writing. This includes identifying specific purposes for writing, such as to persuade, inform, entertain, or explain. It covers writing organization methods including sequence, cause and effect, and problem and solution. Prewriting planning skills, such as outlining, brainstorming, and researching, are included. Finally, the competency emphasizes knowledge of effective introductions, conclusions, topic sentences, and supporting details.

Domain III: Numeracy and Mathematics

The Numeracy domain represents 25% of the test score and contains competencies 0007 through 0009, involving arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.

Competency 0007 focuses on number properties and operations. Candidates must solve problems and make estimates for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division—represented as $+$, $-$, $\times$, and $\div$—using whole numbers, fractions, and decimals. It requires knowledge of composing and decomposing whole numbers. Candidates must identify and order different forms of numbers, including integers, fractions, and decimals, and locate them on a number line. This includes understanding place value for whole numbers and decimal numbers, as well as solving problems involving percentages and ratios.

Competency 0008 deals with algebraic principles and data analysis. This involves solving single-step and two-step equations involving one variable, such as $x$. Real-world mathematical problems are addressed through numerical or algebraic expressions and equations. The competency covers recognizing and extending numerical and visual patterns. Data representation and analysis are also included, requiring work with tables, pie charts, line graphs, pictographs, and bar graphs.

Competency 0009 involves measurement and geometry. Candidates must convert between units of time, money, length, mass, volume, and weight within the standard system, as well as use metric units to convert within the metric system. Geometric figures like the square, circle, triangle, and rectangle must be identified and described by their properties. Practical applications include solving word problems regarding the $\text{area}$, $\text{perimeter}$, and $\text{volume}$ of two-dimensional and three-dimensional figures. Finally, candidates must locate points and recognize figures on a coordinate plane.

Domain IV: Instructional Support Responsibilities

The Instructional Support domain accounts for 25% of the test score and covers competencies 0010 through 0012, highlighting the practical role of the paraprofessional in the classroom.

Competency 0010 focuses on supporting literacy and language arts instruction. Paraprofessionals must know strategies for foundational skills like phonics, phonological awareness, vocabulary, word recognition, and fluency. It includes comprehension strategies applied before, during, and after reading, such as making predictions, skimming, and summarizing. It also covers student observation tools, communicating progress to teachers to support planning and assessment, and using classroom resources and technology. Support for the writing process through brainstorming and planning is also covered.

Competency 0011 focuses on supporting mathematics instruction. This involves strategies for numeracy skills and understanding mathematical vocabulary used in classroom instruction. Paraprofessionals recognize student misconceptions or errors in mathematical reasoning and calculation. Similar to literacy, it includes using observation tools to communicate progress and utilizing classroom materials and technology during mathematics learning.

Competency 0012 outlines the professional role of a paraprofessional. This includes engaging positively with students in one-on-one and small-group settings to meet instructional objectives. Active-listening skills are highlighted as essential for building trust, setting expectations, avoiding misunderstandings, and creating a positive working environment. Collaboration is required with teachers, school staff, and other paraprofessionals. Interactions must remain positive and professional with both students and families. Additionally, paraprofessionals must maintain the privacy and confidentiality of all students, families, and school personnel, while working with teachers to define expectations and support a welcoming school community.