The Illiniois Basic Skills Test (300) is now called the Test of Academic Proficiency (400).  If an examinee has previously passed one or more Basic Skills (300) subtests, the passing score(s) will count toward the passing of the Test of Academic Proficiency (400). However, test scores from the previous ICTS Basic Skills test model (096) (administered prior to September 11, 2010) cannot be applied to fulfill passing requirements.  Like the previous test, you have five attempts to pass all sections of the Test of Academic Proficiency.  Previous Basic Skills attempts do not count toward Test of Academic Proficiency attempts.

• Subtest 401  Reading Comprehension
• Subtest 402  Language Arts
• Subtest 403  Mathematics
• Subtest 404  Writing

  Remember:

• There is no limit on the number of times you can take the TAP.
• Subtests are banked.  Once you pass the subtest, you do not need to take it again.
• There must be 60 days between each attempt.

Longsdale Publishing Online Course and Practice Tests

As a service to its candidates, the Division of Education has purchased a site license which allows for access to the Longsdale preparation materials at no cost to the candidate, a $39.95 savings.  The Longsdale course can be completed in as few as 4 hours (each practice test takes 45-60 minutes) and as many as 15 hours depending upon the candidate’s instructional needs.

Why Longsdale? 

1.      The Longsdale materials have been used successfully by other teacher preparation institutions in Illinois and come with their recommendation.
2.      This resource provides:

• ·       Instruction addressing every tested competency in Reading, Language Arts, and Mathematics found on the TAP;
• ·       Twelve (12) practice tests – four in each of the subtest areas – all modeled on the test objectives from the official Illinois testing website;
• ·       A results page for each practice test showing scores, items missed, and offering an opportunity to revisit any item to see how it can be correctly completed;
• ·       Continuous information as to strengths and weaknesses.  Areas of weakness are accompanied by specific comments and suggestions for improvement.
• ·       The opportunity to write a sample essay, submit it for evaluation, and receive a reply with helpful feedback; and
• ·       Free customer and technical support by phone and Email.

How to get started

1. Locate the following URL with your web browser:  http://www.longsdalepub.com/icts/.  The URL will direct you to a Web page welcoming you to the ICTS Online Course and Practice Tests.

2. Click on the “Register NEW Account” button.  You will need to register using the following information:

School Number:  28423

School Key:          tiutap

3. After entering this information, the next screen to appear will require you to enter an email address and your first and last name into the spaces provided.  The ID number field is optional.

4. When you have completed the registration process, you will be issued a user name and password.  Since you will be asked to enter your user name and password each time you log in, it is important that you keep a copy in a safe place.

Recommended approach for using the materials

1. Begin by reading the introductory section; then take one practice test in each of the subtest sections.  This will give you feedback on how to focus your studies.

2. Submit a writing sample for evaluation.

3. Schedule a regular time to use the practice materials (treat it as you would a course).  Ask someone to hold you accountable.  The Division of Education will be able to monitor your use of the materials and practice test results.

4. Use the Longsdale practice test feedback, specific comments and suggestions for improvement to select areas for study and focus your attention.  Revisit testing items missed on previous practice tests.

Additional online skill building resources (free)

·   Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL)

In addition to providing general writing support (style guides, assistance with research, business letters, résumés, plagiarism guidelines), this site contains instructional guidelines and online quizzes on a variety of writing topics such as the writing process, grammar, punctuation, spelling, and essay writing.  Go to http://owl.english.purdue.edu.  Select “OWL Exercises” from the right hand banner or “Grades 7-12 Instructors and Students” from the left hand banner. 

University Student Success Center

Utilize TIU’s Student Success Center if you need additional instruction, clarification, or assistance.  For location, hours, and services provided, log into MyTIU using your username and password.  Select “University Life” in the horizontal banner; then click on “University Student Success Center” in the right hand banner.