CLAS E Writing Scoring Policy Change Effective July 1, 2025
Current Policy for Scoring the Expository Writing Portion the CLAS E Writing Test (ACLS Assessment Policy Manual, page 35 )
Two scorers must score each examinee's Expository Writing portion of the test. Scorers must not discuss their scores until they have finished scoring. If the scores of two readers differ by one point on any of the five expository test items, these two scores should be averaged for that item (i.e., not rounded up). Once all five items have been scored, add all items and round up if necessary for the final total score. If the scores of the two readers of the expository writing folio portion of the CLAS-E differ by more than one point, a third reader is needed to determine the Final Item Score. Follow the directions in the Writing Scoring Guide for using a third reader.
Policy Change for Scoring the Expository Writing Portion the CLAS E Writing Test
ACLS understands that the policy of two scorers has placed an undue burden on programs and has delayed assessment data entry into LACES.
Upon consultation with UMass CEA psychometricians and after reviewing the TABE test publisher guidelines, starting July 1, 2025, ACLS requires only one scorer for each examinee's Expository Writing portion of the test. Teachers who are certified in CLAS E Writing scoring cannot score their own students' tests. Once all five items have been scored, scorers must add all items.
This policy change applies to both the paper and online CLAS E Writing test administrations and is effective July 1, 2025.
For questions, please contact Dana Varzan-Parker .
Last Updated: April 16, 2025