Publisher's Preface

MHS is proud to announce the arrival of the Ortiz Picture Vocabulary Acquisition Test™ (Ortiz PVAT™). By providing separate monolingual native English Speaker and English Learner norms, this groundbreaking tool is the first of its kind to allow for the fair and accurate assessment of receptive vocabulary in native English speakers and English learners. These independent normative samples not only allow for accurate assessment of receptive vocabulary for any and all speakers or learners of English, but they also allow users of the Ortiz PVAT to effectively address questions regarding “difference versus disorder.” Additionally, by being fully digital (with built-in basal and ceiling points, as well as automatic scoring), the Ortiz PVAT makes the evaluation of receptive vocabulary a simpler process.

The Ortiz PVAT was specially developed for speech-language, mental health, and education professionals to identify receptive vocabulary acquisition and development, which can assist in identifying and diagnosing speech-language difficulties and guiding instruction and educational interventions. Upon completion of the assessment, the user can generate reports that are not only informative in differentiating language difference from language disorder, but are also visually impactful and easy to understand.

We are proud to have the opportunity to work with Dr. Samuel O. Ortiz, an exemplar scholar and mentor to many evaluators in the field, who possesses extensive expertise in the assessment of culturally and linguistically diverse individuals. Dr. Ortiz is highly recognized in the field of psychology and education with numerous contributions and accolades over the years. His in-depth knowledge and understanding of this topic set the foundation on which the Ortiz PVAT is built.

MHS would like to acknowledge the outstanding contributions of Jane Wong and Joanna Solomon, who both worked extensively on the Ortiz PVAT. Together, they worked diligently to develop a tool that will be of the utmost utility to our test users. Their devotion to this project and incredible attention to detail helped ensure that the Ortiz PVAT is a product of the highest caliber and meets the quality standards of our other products.

We would like to hear about your experience with the Ortiz PVAT; your feedback is helpful for future refinements and enhancements. Please send any questions or comments to [email protected]. You may also visit www.mhs.com to find out about our other innovative products.

Steven J. Stein, Ph.D.
CEO
November 2017

Hazel Wheldon, M.A.
President & COO
November 2017