What is the NEWL?

T​he National Examinations in World Languages are online proficiency exams for language learners of Arabic, Korean, Portuguese, and Russian seeking college placement and/or credit. The exams measure functional language proficiency across four skills: reading and listening comprehension, speaking, and writing. It is targeted towards traditional foreign language learners and heritage learners. NEWL exams produce AP®-style score reports, which can be used to apply for college credit and/or placement.

Qualifications for the NEWL

The exam content of NEWL targets individuals who have completed a minimum of two to three years (or the equivalent) of academic work in the target language and culture. While both traditional and heritage learners are encouraged to take NEWL exams, American Councils only allows students who are enrolled in 9th grade or above, OR who have turned 14 before that given year. The NEWL exam is intended only for secondary school students who wish to engage in a rigorous university-level study before high school graduation. AP endorses the National Examinations in World Languages (NEWL), and recommends them to our member institutions in the following world languages: Arabic, Korean, Portuguese, and Russian. 

How Does This Exam Relate to BLA

All Arabic 4 students will take the NEWL exam, as a supplement to a similar type AP Exam. The composite scores for the National Exam in World Languages are then converted to a 5-point scale, comparable to the College Board's AP grade. Due to COVID-19, it is highly likely that next year's exam will be remote, but please continue to follow the guidelines of BLA and American Councils. Essentially, Arabic students in their last year of studying that language will take an exam to gauge their proficiency in a wide variety of areas: Reading and listening comprehension, speaking, and writing. Therefore, please contact BLA Arabic Teacher Ms. Quackenbush for more information regarding the test, as well as helpful resources. You will surely be prepared for the exam as a result of your rigorous learning of this unique language.

Resources:

https://exams.actesting.org/samples/
https://www.americancouncils.org/newl-arabic
Modern Standard Textbook
Ms. Quackenbush Arabic Website