Test Preparation

Test Preparation

As a Test Preparation Coordinator, I worked on several curriculum projects.

Intensive Test Preparation Program

Project: The Intensive Test Prep Program was designed for English language students applying to undergraduate and graduate programs to prepare for standardized entrance exams. The courses were designed for 20 hours of face-to-face instruction. Course offerings included English Language Proficiency (for TOEFL, IELTS, or Combined TOEFL and IELTS) and Graduate Admissions (GRE/GMAT). The courses focused on developing language and math skills and exploring test-taking strategies.

  • Redesigned existing Intensive Test Preparation Program to more adequately address the needs of learners, expand the course offerings, and provide faculty with more resources.
  • Researched TOEFL, IETLS, GRE, and GMAT tests, materials, and other preparation courses. Analyzed learner needs.
  • Reimagined existing syllabi, course descriptions, goals, objectives, and instructional strategies.
  • Selected appropriate course textbooks, resources, and
  • Reviewed, updated, and developed the program Curriculum Guidelines & Manual
  • Created original and adapted material for instruction, skill building activities, assessment, and reflection (digital and paper). Collaborated with program faculty to create and enhance materials and methods of instruction
  • Prepared documentation for CEA Accreditation (received in 2019)
  • Created Canvas Templates with course materials and resources for faculty and students
  • Taught Intensive TOEFL and Intensive IELTS courses

Institution: International English Center, University of Colorado Boulder

Tools: MS Office, Google Suite, Canvas (with Mastery Paths, Canvas Studio, New Quizzes), iMovie, E-learning apps and websites, OER materials,

IELTS & TOEFL Elective Courses

Project: I reviewed the existing IELTS and TOEFL Elective courses and modeled the courses after the Intensive Test Prep IELTS & TOEFL courses. The courses provided learners with test-taking strategies and practice for the selected language proficiency exam. Students built proficiency and confidence in their language skills, practiced using authentic resources and real test questions, developed customized plans to monitor improvement.

  • Revised course descriptions, syllabi, learning objectives, goals, instructional strategies, and course materials
  • Created supplementary slide decks and activities for each lesson
  • Developed in-class and e-learning experiences to strengthen language skills necessary for test demands
  • Differentiated learning activities to customize by using Mastery Paths, offering options for task completions/projects, and reflections
  • Created Canvas Templates with course materials and resources for faculty and students
  • Provided teaching tips and additional resources for instructors
  • Taught TOEFL and IELTS courses

Institution: International English Center, University of Colorado Boulder

Tools: MS Office, Google Suite, Canvas (with Mastery Paths, Canvas Studio, New Quizzes), iMovie, E-learning apps and websites, OER materials, textbook LMSs,

SAT Test Preparation

Project: I designed and developed this four-week, in-person course (10 classes) specially designed for international high school students (aged 15-17) intending to take the SAT exam. The course provides an overview of the test components and strategies. Skill practice includes reading, essay writing, error identification and improvement, math concepts and word problems and vocabulary development. In

  • Designed course syllabus, objectives, and instructional strategies
  • Selected resources and EdTech integration
  • Created 10 detailed lesson plans with accompanying interactive PowerPoint presentations, activity handouts, assessments, instructor answer keys, and multimedia materials
  • Developed original and adapted materials for instruction, e-learning experiences, worksheets, activities, assessments, and homework to prepare students for each section of the SAT, develop study skills, learn test-taking strategies, and expand English vocabulary
  • Provided teaching tips and additional resources for instructors
  • Originated Canvas Template course with all of the course materials for students and instructors
  • Set-up Canvas templates for other courses in the program (structure, branding/aesthetics – minus content)
  • Taught the course 5 times (2017-2019)

Institution: EducationUSA Academy at the International English Center, University of Colorado Boulder

Tools: Course textbook, MS Office, Canvas, EdTech (Kahoot!, Quizlet, Quizziz, and dictionary, textbooks, and other appropriate apps/websites)