The California Teacher of English Learners Exam is a computer-based exam that consists of three subtests.
If you are an examinee who has a medical condition covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act that requires special testing accommodations, you may make this request in writing.
Extra testing time, breaks that do not lessen your testing time, a reader, paper and pencil exams, a separate room for testing, anti-glare screen, screen magnifier, Braille, large-print test book, and large-print answer sheet are some of the accommodations that can be provided.
What domains and topics are covered on each subtest of this exam?
The CTEL Exam consists of three subtests. Subtest 1 is Language and Language Development. Subtest 2 is Assessment and Instruction. Subtest 3 is Culture and Inclusion.
Language and Language Development – 50 multiple-choice and 1 essay (1 hour & 45 mins.)
The first domain of this subtest is language structure and usage. The topics that will be assessed include phonology and morphology, syntax and semantics, language function and variation, discourse, and pragmatics.
The second domain of this subtest is additive-language development. The topics that will be assessed include language and second-language acquisition and theories, process, and stages, factors that affect language development (i.e. cognitive, linguistic, and physical), affective factors that affect the development of language, and sociocultural and political factors that affect the development of language.
Assessment and Instruction- 60 multiple-choice choice and 2 essays (2 hours & 45 mins.)
The first domain of this subtest is assessment of English learners. The topics that will be assessed include the principles of standard-based assessment and instruction, assessments and their role, purposes, and types, and language and content-area assessment.
The second domain of this subtest is foundations of the English language and literacy development and content instruction. The topics that will be assessed include program foundations for English learners, the foundations of English language literacy, and planning and organization, components and delivery, and resource use of ELD and SDAIE.
The third domain of this subtest is approaches and methods for ELD and content instruction. The topics that will be assessed are ELD and listening, speaking, reading, and writing, and the specifics of SDAIE.
Culture and Inclusion- 40 multiple-choice and 1 essay (1 hour & 30 mins.)
The first domain of this subtest is culture and cultural diversity and their relationship to academic achievement. The topics that will be assessed are cultural concepts and perspectives, cultural contact, cultural diversity, and cross-cultural interaction.
The second domain of this subtest is culturally inclusive instruction. The topics that will be assessed are culture in the classroom and school as a whole, inclusive learning environment, the involvement of family and the community, and inclusive curriculum and instruction.
What is the most convenient way to register?
Register and pay online.
What is the cost of taking the subtests of this exam?
If you take the subtests individually, subtest 1 will cost $98, subtest 2 will cost $147, and subtest 3, $99. If you take all three subtests at once, the cost will be $260.
What should I do the day of the exam?
Report to the testing center at least 15 minutes early. Arriving 15 minutes late could prevent you from taking the exam. You will not receive a refund.
Bring a form of identification that includes your name, signature, and photo. A passport, military identification card, and government-issued driver’s license are examples of acceptable forms of ID. Without this ID, you will not be allowed to take the exam.
This test does not require a calculator, nor are you allowed to bring one. Personal items such as a cell phone, pens or pencils, and food/drink are prohibited from the testing area.
Can I take a break during the exam?
You may take a break, but since it is not scheduled into the exam, your break will result in less testing time.
What happens after I take the exam?
Within five weeks of taking the exam, your scores will be released.
What is the minimum passing score on this exam?
220 for each subtest
What happens if I don’t pass the exam?
Although you can take this exam or subtests of the exam as many times as necessary to pass, you must wait at least 45 days between each attempt.
How Can I Prepare for the CTEL Test?
That’s a great question. We’ve broken down the answer into three parts.
- Do yourself a favor and study. Do not walk in unprepared. We have recommended prep materials below, but that only helps if you actually try. Plus, studying is actually proven to be the best antidote to test anxiety.
- Take care of yourself. Make sure you’re eating well, exercising, and sleeping. All of these things are scientifically linked to brain performance. If you take care of your body, you’ll be helping your grades.
- Get a study guide or set of flashcards. Some people study better a certain way. Find your study strengths and make the most of them. We’ve tried to make it easy for you by tracking down the best study guide and flashcard set for your exam. Below you’ll see links to both!
