Lamar CISD is proud to offer the Global Seal of Biliteracy

Students in Lamar CISD can earn the Global Seal of Biliteracy by achieving a score of 3 or higher on an AP Spanish or French exam.  The Global Seal is an international credential recognized in 50 countries that conveys proficiency with language skills in two or more languages for qualifying candidates.  This credential offers a competitive advantage for bilingual individuals by helping them earn scholarships, higher pay, advanced placement, increased study abroad opportunities and so much more. The Global Seal is FREE for all.

The World Language department is committed to providing your child with a world-class education that prepares them for success in a globalized society.  We believe the Global Seal of Biliteracy is a valuable recognition that equips our students with the skills and confidence to thrive in a globally connected world.

Many colleges around the country give automatic credits for students who receive the Seal. 

For more information, please visit the Global Seal homepage.

What is Credit by Exam (CBE) for World Languages?

Credit by exam (CBE) is one method for students to demonstrate proficiency in a language. The Texas Education Code (TEC), §28.023, allows students to either accelerate a grade level or earn credit for a language course based on credit by examination.

Who may apply?

World language examinations are available for any student in grades 8 – 12 who is a native speaker in a foreign language or has traveled or studied in a foreign country. Students may apply for examinations with counselor, principal, and parent approval. Students must apply through the school counselor.

What languages are available?

Lamar CISD currently offers CBE credit in Spanish, French, Arabic, Hindi, Japanese, Persian, and Portuguese.

For more information about CBE’s, please see the Lamar CISD Assessment department.

Lamar CISD offers this course that is designed specifically to benefit students that speak Spanish at home so that they may continue to develop and further expand their language skills. Students who are native Spanish Speakers may enroll in a course in Junior High or High School called “Spanish for Spanish Speakers.” This course is designed for individuals who already speak some Spanish but want to improve their fluency, grammar, vocabulary, and understanding of the language by focusing on more advanced topics, nuances, and cultural aspects of different Spanish-speaking regions.

This course is unique in that it allows the student to obtain 2 years of high school credit in 1 year. Students can earn credit for Spanish 1 and Spanish 2 by taking Spanish for Spanish Speakers course at the junior high or high school level.

Eligibility:

• Students who successfully complete 5 years of a Spanish Dual Language elementary program will be automatically enrolled in the course at the junior high or high school level.
• Students who are newcomers from a Spanish speaking country will automatically be enrolled in the course at the junior high or high school level.
• All other students interested in the course will be screened at their campus.  Screening is free.  Parents will be notified of the screening date.  Talk to your school counselor for more information.

The study of world languages is an essential part of education. In the 21st century language classroom, students gain an understanding of two basic aspects of human existence: the nature of communication and the complexity of culture. Students become aware of multiple perspectives and means of expression, which lead to an appreciation of difference and diversity. Further benefits of foreign language study include stronger cognitive development, increased creativity, and divergent thinking. Students who effectively communicate in more than one language, with an appropriate understanding of cultural context, are globally literate and possess the attributes of successful participants in the world community.  Visit the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for all world language classes website for more information.

Lamar CISD follows the national ACTFL proficiency level guidelines for language acquisition expectations for each course.  The ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines describe an individual’s language skills in terms of proficiency: the ability to use language to accomplish communication objectives. They portray language proficiency in four domains: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. 

Lamar CISD proficiency expectations for each level. Specific guidelines are available in the TEKS.

Level 1 – Novice High

Level 2 – Intermediate Mid

Level 3 – Intermediate High

AP – Advanced Low

Lamar CISD language courses are assessed on the four modes of communication:  reading, listening, speaking, and writing.  Students are assessed on their proficiency level:  what they can do in the language without help. 

Students have three major grades per unit: 

• First major grade:  Multiple choice reading and listening test (ASL has a receptive skills test)
• Second major grade: Timed interpersonal speaking test with a partner.
• Third major grade:  Writing assessment (ASL has a presentational signing assessment)

The Lamar CISD World Language curriculum is a roadmap to guide learners to develop competence to communicate effectively and interact with cultural competence to participate in multilingual communities at home and around the world. Each unit theme is designed to be engaging, authentic, and communicative based.

Click here to access the Curriculum Documents for American Sign Languages, French, and Spanish.