Updated February 2024
To determine the certificate level, students must demonstrate proficiency in all four language domains — listening, speaking, reading and writing — in English and the partner language, in alignment with the ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines (Interpretive Reading and Listening; Interpersonal Listening/Speaking and Presentational Writing).
The certificate level should be determined by the lowest language proficiency score. If a student demonstrates a high level of proficiency in one language (English or the partner language) and a lower level of proficiency in the other language, the certificate should be awarded at the lower proficiency level.
- For Students with Disabilities: Proficiency in English and the partner language may be demonstrated in two domains instead of four domains, depending on the student’s needs.
Biliteracy Pathway Certificate Levels
Certificates may be awarded at any grade level.
| Certificate Level | English Assessment | Partner Language Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| English Learners: Use overall ACCESS Score Other students: Completion of English language arts (ELA) course of study | Districts may select one assessment for all students or different assessments for different languages and student needs. | |
| LOC Bilingual Participation Certificate Novice-High | Required: English Learners only: Overall ACCESS Level 2 Other students: Completion of English language arts (ELA) course of study Optional: All students: Portfolio documenting Novice-High proficiency in four domains | Required: – Portfolio documenting Novice-High proficiency in four domains – AAPPL/ALIRA: N4 – STAMP: 3 – SLPI: Novice – Other assessments approved by DESE of the Seal of Biliteracy |
| LOC Bilingual Attainment Certificate Intermediate- Low | Required: English Learners only: Overall ACCESS Level 2.1-3.5 Other students: Completion of English language arts (ELA) course of study Optional: All students: Portfolio documenting Intermediate-Low proficiency in four domains | Required: – Portfolio documenting Intermediate-Low proficiency in four domains – AAPPL/ALIRA: I1 – STAMP: 4 – AP: 2 – SLPI: Novice Plus – Aprenda: 50th% – Other assessments approved by DESE of the Seal of Biliteracy |
| LOC Bilingual Achievement Certificate Intermediate-Mid | Required: English Learners only: Overall ACCESS Level 3.6 – 4.2 Other students: Completion of English language arts (ELA) course of study Optional: All students: Portfolio documenting Intermediate-Mid proficiency in four domains | Required: – Portfolio documenting Intermediate-Mid proficiency in four domains – AAPPL/ALIRA: I2, I3, I4 in all domains – STAMP: 5 – SLPI: Intermediate – AP: 3 – Other assessments approved by DESE of the Seal of Biliteracy |
Massachusetts Biliteracy Pathway 