OWLS-II: Oral and Written Language Scales–Second Edition, Comprehensive Hand-Scored Kit

Ages: 3-0 through 21-11
Testing Time: 20–30 minutes
Administration: Individual
Qualification Level: B

Building on the strong theory and research underpinning the original OWLS, the second edition of this highly regarded test offers an integrated, global approach to oral and written language assessment. Moreover, a helpful new handbook, Foundations of Language Assessment, explains the theory upon which the OWLS-II is based, making it easier to understand the test and interpret results.

OWLS-II scales are normed on a sample of 2,123 subjects, from 3 through 21 years of age and nationally representative in terms of gender, ethnicity, geographic region, and parental education. Age- and grade-based norms are provided.

The OWLS-II evaluates Listening Comprehension, Oral Expression, Reading Comprehension, and Written Expression. Each of these scales assesses four linguistic structures:

• Lexical/Semantic
• Syntactic
• Pragmatic
• Supralinguistic

Because it looks at the same linguistic structures across four distinct language processes, the OWLS-II provides an unusually detailed, coherent, and integrated assessment. Although its four scales can be used separately, together they give you a comprehensive score profile that pinpoints language delays, identifies strengths and weaknesses in all areas, and guides intervention.

Listening Comprehension and Oral Expression Scales
Together these two scales assess receptive and expressive language in 3- through 21-year-olds. Individually administered, both use basals and ceilings to ensure that examinees are given only items that closely approximate their ability levels. Neither scale requires reading on the examinees' part, and both scales feature colorful, updated artwork that's balanced in terms of race, gender, and physical differences.

The Listening Comprehension Scale measures receptive language. The examiner reads a stimulus word aloud, and the student responds by indicating one of four pictures that best depicts the meaning of the word. The Oral Expression Scale measures expressive language, requiring the examinee to answer questions, finish sentences, and generate sentences in response to visual and oral prompts.

Reading Comprehension and Written Expression Scales
Two scales assess written language: Reading Comprehension and Written Expression, both for ages 5 to 21. Reading Comprehension measures the receptive aspects of written language. Items typically require the student to read a prompt and choose one of four response options. Written Expression measures the expressive aspects of written language. Item additions and revisions enhance the scale's validity and scope, as well as its ability to elicit a variety of responses and assess higher-functioning individuals.

OWLS-II COMPREHENSIVE LC/OE AND RC/WE HAND-SCORED KIT covers all 4 Scales and Includes: 10 LC/OE Record Forms, LC Easel, OE Easel, LC/OE Manual, 10 RC/WE Record Forms, 10 WE Response Booklets, RC Easel, WE Easel, RC/WE Manual, 10 Profile Forms, and Foundations of Language Assessment, all in an attractive carrying case. (©2012)