TKT Specialist Modules
The TKT Specialist Modules refer to TKT CLIL and TKT YL. TKT CLIL is a test of knowledge of Content and Language Integrated Learning and concepts related to a CLIL approach, whereas TKT YL is a test of knowledge of teaching English to young learners. Both of these Specialist Modules are optional modules, so they can be taken only when required.
What is included in TKT CLIL?
CLIL is a teaching method where subjects are taught in a non-native language. Learning this way can be tougher and more intense than regular language lessons. Students learn both the language and the subject at the same time, broadening their language skills and knowledge in various areas. This Module tests:
- The knowledge of how to plan lessons
- The knowledge of activities and resources used to support a CLIL approach
- The knowledge of teaching strategies
- The knowledge of how assessment is carried out in CLIL contexts
What is included in TKT YL?
TKT YL is a test for teachers and assistants teaching English to young learners. It examines understanding of young learners’ learning and development, as well as skills in planning, teaching, and assessing their work. In TKT YL a young learner is considered as a child between 6 to 12 years old, which is typically the first six years of formal schooling. This age range is chosen because most countries start formal education at age 6, and by age 12, children undergo notable cognitive and emotional development. This Module tests:
- Knowledge of young learners and principles of teaching English to young learners
- Planning and preparing young learner lessons
- Teaching young learners
- Assessing young learner learning through classroom-based assessment
For a comprehensive description of TKT YL, exam preparation tips and navigation map to all the lessons, please visit TKT YL page
Should I take only one Module at a time?
You can take either one or both Modules. However, please note that attempting all two modules at once requires a significant amount of exam preparation. During the exam, it consumes a lot of energy and demands a higher level of concentration. For beginners, it is advisable to take one module at a time. However, experienced teachers may find it scalable to take all two tests in one sitting.
How will you be assessed?
Each test consists of 80 questions, which are 3-option multiple choice and matching questions. Completing each module earns you a certificate with a Band.
A Band indicates your performance in the test. There are four Bands, ranging from Band 1 to Band 4, with Band 1 being the lowest and Band 4 the highest. Here are the four Bands along with the number of correct answers required:
- Band 4: 70 or more correct answers out of 80 questions
- Band 3: 45-69 correct answers out of 80 questions
- Band 2: 16-44 correct answers out of 80 questions
- Band 1: 0-15 correct answers out of 80 questions
Although you are awarded a certificate regardless of the Band you have obtained, from an employability perspective, Band 3 is considered the minimum. Any Band lower than Band 3 carries very insignificant recognition.
How can I take the test?
If you follow a prep course at a language institute, they will usually take care of exam registration. If you study on your own, you will need to register for the tests at a Cambridge-approved exam center. Don’t worry; it’s a straightforward process.
- Choose a Cambridge approved exam centre of your choice
- Contact the centre for details - exam date(s), fee, registration deadline
- Complete your registration and receive your 'confirmation of entry'
- Take the test on the specific date mentioned in the 'confirmation of entry'
The procedure may vary slightly from country to country and from center to center, but in general, it is similar to the one described above.
Are all two specialist Modules mandatory for employment?
No. None of the Specialist modules are ‘compulsory’ as they are optional modules. Unlike the three core modules, these modules do not have any impact on being qualified in TKT. We recommend that you take these modules based on your requirements.
How much does it cost to do these tests?
If you have chosen the self-study option, it will cost you only the exam fees. The exam fee varies from country to country, and there could be slight variations in the fee from center to center within the same country. However, at the end of the day, the self-study option will save you a considerable amount of money.
What is the time frame for completing the specialist modules?
TKT certificates are evergreen, so you are neither restricted nor obliged to a particular time period for completing all two specialist modules. Unless the content for TKT modules undergoes significant changes, you are all set to present your five-year-old TKT CLIL certificate along with the certificates for TKT YL that you received last month.
Can I do TKT Specialist Modules first?
Yes, there are no restrictions on that. Most candidates complete their core modules before starting the specialist modules. However, it is important to note that completing the specialist modules does not earn you the title of ‘TKT qualified’.
Is there a particular order to follow the two Modules?
Certainly not. TKT is quite flexible, so you can start with whatever the Module you are required the most. There’s no particular order or a particular combination to be followed.
As these modules are optional, you may choose the one most applicable to you. For example, if you are teaching young children, TKT YL will be relevant, whereas TKT CLIL will be more applicable if you teach or intend to teach other subjects in English medium.
To self-study for TKT Specialist Modules, from where should I start?
Excellent! This website has got everything you need to complete TKT Specialist Modules at no cost.
Here are the links to each of the Specialist Modules:
- TKT CLIL
- TKT YL
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