This past May HudsonWay NY campus became an official administration site for the AP Chinese and AP Spanish Language and Culture tests. Seven HWIS middle school students in grades 6-8 took part in the optional test which is typically administered to juniors and seniors in high schools or to 9th and 10th graders in immersion programs. It was the first time the HWIS students had taken the AP test. Results which came back in July showed that 100% of HWIS students scored 3 or higher (scale of 1-5) as compared to a global average of 86%. This is a remarkable achievement particularly given the fact that the HWIS students are younger than the average test takers and may not have the life experiences that the test may draw upon, as well as the fact that immersion curriculum is not structured around the preparation for the AP test.   

The language level of the AP test is similar to that of an intermediate level or 4th semester college course. The test measures listening, speaking, reading, and writing in a combination of multiple choice and free response (writing and speaking) assessments given in a very structured and controlled setting lasting approximately 3 hours. Students take the test yearly in May and scores are available in July. A score of 3 is equivalent to an intermediate mid, a 4 equivalent to intermediate high and a 5 equivalent to advanced low on the ACTFL proficiency scale.  

Most states in the U.S. have adopted statewide credit policies that ensure college credit for scores of 3 or higher at public colleges and universities. Getting a high score is an advantage in applying to colleges demonstrating continuous commitment to proficiency in another language.  Middle school students who score well may also be able to place out of high school language requirements. Finally, a score of 3 or above qualifies a student for the Global Seal of Biliteracy which is a nationally recognized language certification used by colleges and employers to validate achievement of functional or working level of language proficiency. All seven HWIS middle school students earned the Global Seal of Biliteracy through their results on the AP test this spring. Congratulations to Jeremy Cuevas, Charles Doyle, Kalen McBrien, Cole Perkins, Jack Perkins, Mungo Prus-Shearer, and Suri Wong! We are so proud of you!