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BCLAD Test Preparation: Spanish Language Test Study Guide

Before you start downloading

You'll need the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to see some of the files in the Study Guide. You will also need to have a program called Power Point installed on your computer. If you don't, it's best to go to campus and print the pages there.

To prepare for the translation part

The test will require that you translate a short letter from English to Spanish. A good way to get ready is to review the rubric PDF document used to score the essays. Also, get your essays evaluated and discussed by Spanish-speaking friends or colleagues, and ask them to correct your work in exchange for an equivalent service on your part..

To prepare for the interview and listening parts

We look for students who can understand the question, and can use a basic vocabulary to express their ideas in a manner reasonably fluid for Spanish speakers living in the US. You should know the basics of conjugation and word choice. If your oral skills are poor, and you really want a BCLAD and you want to make sure you’ll pass, you can take an intermediate level Spanish course at a community college or a course here at CSUS.

These materials are meant to be a review only

You should have studied these elements in language coursework previous to this test. Remember, a BCLAD certifies that you can teach Spanish grammar at your credential's level.

To prepare for the grammar, punctuation, and conjugation parts

Review the Power Point presentations on:

We also recommend you do the exercises in a book such as Spanish Grammar (part of the Schaum’s Outlines Series), by Conrad J. Smidt. (1999) New York: McGraw-Hill. This is a relatively inexpensive ($17.95) intermediate exercise book focusing on problem areas for English speakers.

But can't you check my practice sheets?
Because there are so many test takers, we unfortunately cannot do individual tutoring, correct your practice essays, or review conversational skills.