Preparing for the TASC–ASL

The following steps may be helpful in preparing for the TASC–ASL.

1. Become familiar with the format of the exam by reading through the
   description of the exam and the communication competencies that you will be
   expected to perform in American Sign Language (see Exam Format).
2. Read the description of each communication competency in order to get a
   more specific idea of what you will be required to do to demonstrate your
   signed communication ability in American Sign Language. You may wish to use this to set priorities for your study time (see Communication Competencies).
3. Become familiar with how your performance will be scored.
4. Review the Resources for possible resources to consult. Also, compile key materials from your preparation coursework.

General Preparation

Here are some ideas on preparing for the TASC–ASL and some tips to focus on during your preparation for the interview. This study material cannot replace a reasonable background in academic studies and practical experience. Instead, it is intended to provide an overview of the TASC–ASL.

Signed communication proficiency in American Sign Language is acquired over a period of time through continual practice and use of the language. The purpose of the TASC–ASL is to allow you to demonstrate your signed communication proficiency in American Sign Language; therefore, there are no "right" or "wrong" answers to the questions asked, nor for the prompts used to initiate responses.

However, it is to your advantage to know what level of ability you are expected to demonstrate to receive a passing score on the TASC–ASL and to become familiar with the unique testing format of this exam before you actually take it. The TASC–ASL requires you to respond in American Sign Language to several communication competencies in an interview format. The interviewer has a prepared set of questions for stimulating communication at the appropriate levels, and the interviewer's questioning strategies within the conversation that occurs is designed to allow you to demonstrate your highest level of proficiency of American Sign Language within a more natural and dynamic conversation.

The information in this section is designed to help you obtain information and practice materials that will assist you in doing your best during the interview.

Readiness for the Exam

Test-Taking Tips

Interpreting Services

Communication Competencies

Helpful Information

The following information about the test session and what you should expect to do during the exam session may be helpful to you.

• Relax. The interviewer will welcome you and make some brief comments at the beginning of the exam session. The purpose of these comments is to allow you to become familiar and comfortable with the exam setting and procedures. This may help you to relax and prepare for the actual exam questions.
• Follow directions. At the beginning of the exam session and throughout the exam, follow all directions carefully. If you do not understand something about the directions, do not hesitate to ask the interviewer before testing begins. Any questions asked prior to the interview do not impact your score.
• Show what you can do. Your goal is to demonstrate as fully as possible how well you can communicate using American Sign Language. When answering each interview question or responding to interview prompts, sign until you think you have given a thorough response or until the interviewer stops you by asking another question.
• Always try to respond as well and as clearly as you can. Remember that during the exam, you must use American Sign Language, as this is the exam for which you registered. During the exam, you are not allowed to switch between signed systems. However, if you choose to switch between signed systems, the interviewer must continue to conduct the conversation in American Sign Language.
• Sign naturally and appropriately for each communication competency. Sign in a manner appropriate to the context of each question or prompt. The interviewer will progress through the five communication competencies, and you must respond appropriately to each interview question or prompt using appropriate American Sign Language to demonstrate proficiency. Different situations will require you to respond differently.
• Don't worry about finding the "right" answer. Interview questions and prompts are intended for you to demonstrate your American Sign Language ability. This includes your fluency, your accuracy of grammar, and the extent of your vocabulary. Questions or prompts are not intended to test your knowledge of facts, ideas, or events. There are no "right" or "wrong" answers.