Alternate Character Toolbar Tutorials

The TExES program has several language tests that are offered via computer during specific administration windows at various times throughout the year.

  • Bilingual Target Language Proficiency Test (BTLPT) - Spanish (190)
  • Languages Other Than English (LOTE) - French (610), German (611) and Spanish (613)

There are some Writing sections in these tests that require you to enter written responses on the computer. An alternate character toolbar for inputting accents and alternate characters is built into the tests, specific to the language being tested.

Tutorials are available that let you practice using the toolbar for each language. If you are taking any of these tests, you are strongly urged to view the appropriate tutorial and practice using the toolbar before the day of your test.

Choose the appropriate link below to launch the tutorial for the language in which you will be testing. You will be presented with a blank area to practice typing and inserting alternate characters and accents in that language. The toolbar may be repositioned anywhere on the screen. You may type anything you like; your response will not be saved. For example, you may answer the question  "Why are you taking this test?" When you are finished, choose Exit to close the tutorial.

French Alternate Character Toolbar Tutorial
German Alternate Character Toolbar Tutorial
Spanish Alternate Character Toolbar Tutorial

NOTE: To execute these tutorials, you need Java Runtime Environment, version 1.5 or greater, installed on your computer. If you do not have Java Runtime Environment, a free download (available from the Java website) will install it on your computer. Simply choose the correct download for your operating system. If you are running the Microsoft Windows Vista operating system, it is recommended that you install the latest version of Java (Version 6) with the latest update. You may have to reboot your computer after the installation.

If you are unsure if your computer has Java Runtime Environment, the Java website also provides an option that will check your computer for you. Simply choose to "Verify Now."