CUSD #205 is proud to offer the Illinois Seal of Biliteracy, a recognition given to graduating high school students who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in English and another language. Students are assessed in reading, writing, listening and speaking. Proficiency is also determined through scores on standardized tests such as the SAT or ACCESS (English proficiency) and AAPPL (ACTFL Assessment of Performance through Proficiency in Language). Students will receive more information about this great opportunity in their World Language classes in French, German, and Spanish. Additionally, students seeking the Seal of Biliteracy in a language not currently offered at GHS can contact Mrs. Ritchie to schedule a test for another language. Students can register for this opportunity in early Spring of next year. Testing will take place in early May. Contact Mrs. Ritchie with any further questions.
FAQ Regarding the IL State Seal of Biliteracy
What are the benefits of this program to students in Illinois?
State Seal of Biliteracy programs encourage the study of other languages. This benefits the student by increasing employment and academic opportunities. This program supports CUSD #205's work to enhance global citizenship in our students.
How can a student earn IL State Seal of Biliteracy?
Students earn the Illinois State Seal of Biliteracy by doing these things:
- Demonstrating proficiency in English on the SAT
- Demonstrating proficiency in a second language on the AAPPL or an AP exam
What are the benefits of the Illinois State Seal of Biliteracy?
Students who earn the Seal of Biliteracy will have an official seal placed on their their diploma and high school transcript. By law, Illinois public universities will accept the State Seal of Biliteracy as the equivalent of two years of foreign language coursework taken during high school if a student’s high school transcript indicates that he or she received the State Seal of Biliteracy. Many universities waive any foreign language requirements and/or grant course credit for students who have earned the Seal of Biliteracy.
How can a student demonstrate the English proficiency?
-To earn the Seal: ELA SAT score of 540
or
4.8 on the ACCESS test (English Language Learners only)
-For Commendation towards Biliteracy: Meet or exceed standards in ELA on a State assessment at the secondary level
How does a student demonstrate proficiency in another language?
-To earn the Seal: Earn a score of I-5 (intermediate high) on the AAPPL test
-To earn Commendation towards the Seal: Earn a I-1 (Intermediate High) on the AAPPL test
What’s the AAPPL?
The AAPPL is a four part test that assesses Interpersonal Listening/Speaking, Presentational Writing, Interpretive Reading, and Interpretive Listening. These are the skills students are learning in their World Language classes! The assessment takes about two hours. Students can take the AAPPL as many times as they like, only needing to repeat the sections that they didn’t pass. If you’d like to try again, speak to your World Language teacher or Mrs. Ritchie. The charge for the entire exam is $20 ($5 charge for single portions of the test). Please note that if you earn Commendation as a junior, you still have a chance to earn the Seal by graduation. Additionally, there is an Alternate Portfolio Method that may be used in extenuating situations, so don't hesitate to reach out if you have additional questions.
Additional information:
Take a demo of the AAPPL (requires flash)