CTEL Study Guide 2026–2027 | Subtests 1, 2 & 3 | 200 Practice Questions

Prepare for the California Teachers of English Learners (CTEL) exam, the test route to California's English Learner Authorization (CLAD Certificate). This study guide follows the official CTEL test structure, all three subtests and all seven content domains, and teaches each topic the way the exam tests it: through classroom scenarios, student language samples, and assessment data.

This 145-page digital guide pairs a full content review with two 100-question practice tests of scenario-based, exam-level questions and four constructed-response practice prompts, so you prepare for both the multiple-choice items and the essays that count for about 30% of each subtest score.

What's Inside

• An overview of the current exam: CTEL 1 (50 multiple-choice + 1 essay, 1 h 45 min), CTEL 2 (60 + 2 essays, 2 h 45 min), CTEL 3 (40 + 1 essay, 1 h 30 min), scoring (220 to pass each subtest), fees, and test-center or online-proctored delivery
• Domain 1 · Language Structure and Use: phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics, language variation, and cross-linguistic transfer
• Domain 2 · Additive-Language Development: SLA theories, Krashen's five hypotheses, Cummins (BICS/CALP, CUP), stages, affective and social factors, bilingualism, and translanguaging
• Domain 3 · Assessment of English Learners: ELPAC and reclassification, assessment types, validity and bias, accommodations, and assessing each language domain
• Domain 4 · Foundations: Lau, Castañeda, Plyler, Title III, Proposition 58, the EL Roadmap, program models, the CA ELD Standards, designated and integrated ELD, academic language, and literacy
• Domain 5 · Approaches and Methods: SDAIE, SIOP, language objectives, structured interaction, corrective feedback, vocabulary, structured literacy, and writing instruction
• Domain 6 · Culture and Academic Achievement: concepts of culture, acculturation and culture shock, cultural dimensions, diversity in California, and newcomer students
• Domain 7 · Culturally Inclusive Instruction: culturally responsive and sustaining pedagogy, Banks's curriculum levels, materials bias review, family engagement, and equity
• 30+ quick-reference tables and process charts
• 4-, 8-, and 12-week study schedules, FAQs, test-taking strategies, and official resources
• 4 constructed-response prompts with scoring checklists and sample outlines
• 2 practice tests (200 questions) with a quick answer grid and a detailed explanation for every answer

Format

• Instant digital download (PDF), 8.5 × 11 in
• Clickable table of contents
• Print it or study on a tablet, laptop, or phone

Please note: This is a digital product. No physical item will be shipped.

California Teachers of English Learners (CTEL) and CTEL are trademarks of the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing and Pearson Education, Inc. or its affiliate(s). Test Treasure Publication is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing, Pearson, or any testing organization; all exam and organization names referenced are trademarks of their respective owners.