text:
Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination For Spanish/English Examinee Handbook April, 2002 Revised: March 2004 Revised: February 2007 Revised: June 2008 Revised: May 2009 Revised: April 2010 Revised: March 11, 2011 The original version of this handbook was prepared for the Administrative Office of the United States Courts by the National Center for State Courts, Williamsburg, Virginia, and its collaborating partners, CPS Human Resource Services, Sacramento, California, and Second Language Testing, Incorporated, N. Bethesda, Maryland. The National Center for State Courts is contractor to the Administrative Office of the United States Courts for the development and administration of the Spanish/English Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination. FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK TABLE OF CONTENTS PART 1 BACKGROUND AND OVERVIEW OF THE FCICE 1 1.1 Background of the Federal Court Interpreter Certification Program 1 1.2 What is court interpreting? 1 1.3 What qualifications do court interpreters have? 2 1.4 Are you qualified to be a certified federal court interpreter? 2 1.5 Confidentiality of test content 2 1.6 Overview of the examination 3 1.7 Practice Tests 4 PART 2 REGISTRATION, BACKGROUND QUESTIONNAIRE, SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS, AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION POLICIES 5 2.1 Schedule of examinations 5 2.2 How to register for the FCICE 5 2.3 Cancellation policy 6 2.4 Candidates eligible for the Oral Examination Error! Bookmark not defined. 2.5 Registering for an examination 7 2.6 Online registration 7 2.7 Registration by mail 8 2.8 Background Questionnaire 9 2.9 Special accommodations 9 2.10 Fee information 10 2.11 Taking the examination 10 2.12 Score reporting procedures and timelines 12 2.13 Dispute Resolution Policy 13 2.13.2 When and how should complaints and appeals be filed? 14 2.13.4 Confidentiality of investigation findings 15 PART 3 THE WRITTEN EXAMINATION 17 3.1 Description of the Written Examination 17 3.2 Scoring the Written Examination 17 3.3 Development of the Written Examination 18 3.4 Suggestions on how to prepare for the FCICE Written Examination 19 3.5 Hints for the days before the Written Examination 20 3.6 Procedures for the day of the Written Examination 21 3.7 Suggested study references for the Written Examination 23 3.8 Discussion and sample items 23 PART 4 THE ORAL EXAMINATION 35 4.1 Description of the Oral Examination 35 4.2 Development of the Oral Examination 36 4.3 Examination validity, reliability, and field testing 37 4.4 Administering and scoring the Oral Examination 37 4.5 Discussion of the individual sections of the Oral Examination 38 4.6 More on scoring units 40 Draft Revision: October 8, 2010 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 4.7 Suggestions on how to prepare for the Oral Examination 41 4.8 Hints for the days before the Oral Examination 41 4.9 Procedures for the day of the Oral Examination 42 4.10 The examination itself – what you can expect 43 4.11 Sources for practice materials 45 PART 5 SELF-ASSESSMENT OF READINESS TO TAKE THE FCICE 47 5.1 Introduction 47 5.2 Language proficiency self-rating in English and in Spanish 47 5.3 "Can Do" Interpreter Self-Assessment 52 PART 6 WHO IS INVOLVED IN THE DEVELOPMENT AND ADMINISTRATION OF THE FCICE? 59 6.1 Who is involved in the development and administration of the FCICE? 59 6.2 Consulting experts 59 PART 7 PRACTICE WRITTEN EXAMINATION AND KEY 63 7.1 Introduction to the Practice Test for the FCICE Written Examination 63 PART 8 PRACTICE ORAL EXAMINATION 109 i Draft Revision: October 8, 2010 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK [This page intentionally left blank] ii Draft Revision: October 8, 2010 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK PART 1 BACKGROUND AND OVERVIEW OF THE FCICE 1.1 Background of the Federal Court Interpreter Certification Program The Court Interpreters Act of 1978 and the subsequent Amendments of 1988 (18 U.S.C. §§ 1827-1828) require the Director of the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts (AO) to define criteria for certifying interpreters qualified to interpret in federal courts. The Act also requires the Director to maintain a list of interpreters who have been certified. Certified interpreters are placed on an eligibility list from which court interpreters may be selected by the local officials of the United States District Courts. One important impact of the 1978 federal law was the creation and implementation of the Spanish/English Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination (FCICE) in 1980. The FCICE introduced to the court interpreting environment the concept of performance-based interpreter testing, which is based on rigorous testing practices. The requirements for passing the examination and for becoming a Federally Certified Court Interpreter (FCCI) reflect the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for court interpreting and the difficulty of the work. Consequently, the hundreds of interpreters who have passed the FCICE since 1980 have become an important resource throughout the country. These FCCIs serve not only as practicing interpreters in the federal courts, but as test raters for the FCICE itself and for state court testing programs. Many also serve as consultants for the development of tests of interpreting skills, and for training programs outside the federal courts. The FCICE is offered only for Spanish/English, since that is the primary interpreting need in the federal judiciary. 1.2 What is court interpreting? Interpretation is necessary during court proceedings when there are parties who speak only or primarily a language other than English. The purpose of interpreting for defendants who do not speak English is to allow them to understand everything that is being said and to participate effectively in their defense. When witnesses speak only or primarily a language other than English, an interpreter is required so that the person's testimony can be understood and become evidence in the case. If interpretation is inaccurate, defendants may misunderstand what is taking place, or the evidence heard by a judge and jury may be incomplete or distorted, if not significantly changed. What the interpreter says in English following a witness' testimony in another language is what is heard by the judge and jury as evidence, and it is what is recorded in the record of the proceedings. Interpreters who work in court, therefore, have the weighty responsibility of interpreting everything that is said, without adding, deleting, altering or summarizing the content. Court interpreters also must preserve the nuances and level of formality (or informality) of the speech. Even insulting or embarrassing language, including 1 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK profanity, must be accurately interpreted. In addition to rendering spoken English into the foreign language and vice versa, court interpreters are sometimes required to perform sight translation, which is reading documents and interpreting them from English into the foreign language or the foreign language into English. 1.3 What qualifications do court interpreters have? The first prerequisite of professional court interpreters is to possess educated, native-like mastery of both English and a second language. Mastery of languages at the level required for court interpreting requires reading and speaking the languages regularly in a wide variety of language contexts and usually years of formal education. Mastery of both English and the other language includes the ability to speak each language in a way that does not interfere with understanding by native speakers of either language. Thus, accented speech may be noticeable but must not pose problems for the listener. Being a federal court interpreter requires not only a high level of proficiency in two languages but also an ability to perform the three modes of interpreting: consecutive interpreting, simultaneous interpreting, and sight translation of documents. Simultaneous interpreting is required in situations in which participants in the court proceedings may be speaking very rapidly. Therefore, for the purpose of testing, being able to maintain speeds as high as 160 words per minute is required. For consecutive interpreting, interpreters must be able to hear and retain in memory lengthy questions and responses. Consequently, for purposes of testing, some utterances are as long as 50 words. Efficient note-taking skills are often relied on by interpreters to supplement memory. When performing a sight translation of a document, interpreters must be able to render the interpretation smoothly, without frequent false starts and in a way that reveals the true nature and content of the document. Acquiring these specific performance skills presupposes some element of innate ability and extensive practice. 1.4 Are you qualified to be a certified federal court interpreter? Federal court interpreters must possess a high level of language proficiency, and the nature of a federal court interpreter's work is demanding. Part 5 of this Examinee Handbook, entitled Self- Assessment of Readiness to Take the FCICE offers a self-assessment tool to help candidates decide whether to take the FCICE. 1.5 Confidentiality of test content The contents of the Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination (FCICE) written and oral examinations are strictly confidential. Any person who takes an examination or who is authorized to have the examination in her or his possession, however briefly, must agree to protect the confidentiality of the examination. For examinees, this means that the contents of the 2 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK examination shall not be discussed with or in any way divulged to any person, copied down, or recorded through any means whatsoever, without prior written authorization from the Administrative Office of the United States Courts (AOUSC). This includes taking and keeping notes of test content, including notes in computer files. Oral or written disclosure or any use of any portion of these testing instruments without prior authorization from the AOUSC is strictly forbidden. Any individual who violates this security policy or is found in possession of any equipment or materials that could be used to assist in taking the examination or to record or transmit any portion of the examination is subject to denial of certification and will be permanently disqualified from taking any test in the FCICE program. Every examinee is required to sign an oath of confidentiality before taking an examination. 1.6 Overview of the examination The FCICE is a two-phase examination of language proficiency and interpretation performance, consisting of a Written Examination and an Oral Examination. The two examinations are administered in alternate years. The first phase of the examination, referred to as the Written Examination, is a multiple-choice test of language proficiency in English and Spanish, and is offered in even-numbered years (2008, 2010, 2012, etc.) The Written Examination emphasizes accuracy rather than speed. However, there is a three hour and fifteen minute time limit for completing the test, excluding the time required for instructions and other procedural requirements. As a practical matter, candidates should plan on devoting one-half day to the examination. The second phase is an Oral Examination that simulates the work that interpreters do in court, and is offered in odd-numbered years (2009, 2011, 2013, etc.) This examination takes about 45 minutes, excluding instructions and other procedural requirements. Candidates should allow at least one hour to complete the Oral Examination. Candidates must pass the Phase One Written Examination in order to qualify to take the Phase Two Oral Examination. Candidates who pass the Oral Examination will receive a letter and certificate from the Director of the AO awarding certification as a Federally Certified Court Interpreter. The passing score is 75 percent for the Written Examination and 80 percent for the Oral Examination. The two phases of the examination are described in more detail later in this handbook. The examination is administered under the supervision of the District Court Administration Division of the AO. The AO, in turn, contracts with specialists in court interpretation and 3 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK language testing for development and administration of the examination. See Part 6 of this handbook entitled, "Who is involved in the Development and Administration of the FCICE?" Additional information about the FCICE is available at www.ncsconline.org/fcice. 1.7 Practice Tests Practice Tests for both the Written and Oral Examinations are available to candidates as part of this handbook in Parts 7 and 8 respectively. Both exams are shorter than an actual examination. The Practice Tests were developed at the same time and in the same way as the relevant operational examinations that are still in use, and were designed to be equivalent to the operational forms except that the Practice Tests are shorter. The Practice Tests include representative items from all sections of the equivalent operational forms for that phase, but the operational examinations are routinely reviewed and modified whereas the Practice Tests are not. While the practice Written Examination is slightly shorter1 than the length of an actual examination, candidates are encouraged to take the practice Written Examination under the same constraints as the real examination (e.g., no dictionaries or other aids). Please note that 2.5 hours should be allotted to take the Practice Test. While there is no guarantee that results on the Practice Test will be the same as results on the official examination, the Practice Test provides a good way for candidates to estimate the likelihood that they are ready to perform successfully on the Written Examination portion of the FCICE. The practice Oral Examination is a one-half length simulation of an actual examination. Taking the practice Oral Examination will help candidates estimate the likelihood that they are ready to pass the Oral Examination. The practice Oral Examination includes both written text material and practice recordings that must be interpreted. Practice recordings are provided on compact disks if the candidate purchases a hard copy of this handbook. For those candidates viewing this handbook online, the recordings are provided via Windows Media Player or Real Audio Player and are available at the FCICE Web site at the "Oral Practice Exam" link. For the practice Oral Examination material, candidates must tape record their own performance and play it back while scoring the performance. Examples of scoring keys are provided to assist with self-scoring. 1 The operational exams have 100 items in the English section and 100 items in the Spanish section. The practice test has 80 items in each section. 4 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK PART 2 REGISTRATION, BACKGROUND QUESTIONNAIRE, SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS, AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION POLICIES 2.1 Schedule of examinations The Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination is a two-phase process involving a Spanish/English Written Examination (Phase One) and an Oral Examination (Phase Two). The two phases are offered biennially, with Phase One and Phase Two occurring in alternating years. Examination dates and locations, and registration deadlines, which change from year to year, are posted on the Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination Web site at www.ncsconline.org/fcice. 2.2 How to register for the FCICE Candidates for the Spanish/English Federal Court Interpreter Written or Oral Examination can register either online or by mail. For detailed instructions for registering online, refer to 2.6 – Online Registration below. If you wish to register by mail, refer to 2.7 - Registration by mail below. Please note that candidates requesting a special accommodation must register by mail and provide written documentation explaining the nature of the requested accommodation (see 2.9 – Special Accommodations for more information). FCICE staff will help candidates requesting a special accommodation to complete the registration process. Important registration information: It is the responsibility of interested interpreters to inform themselves of the dates that registration opens and closes and of the dates of testing. This information is posted on the FCICE Web site (www.ncsconline.org/fcice) as soon as the dates are known, so interpreters are encouraged to visit the site periodically. In particular, it is the responsibility of candidates who are eligible to take the Oral Examination to request registration information during the appropriate registration period. Registration material received after a registration deadline (indicated online and on the printed registration form) will not be accepted and will be returned to the candidate. Emergency requests for late registration must be in writing and include a detailed description of all reasons why the deadline was missed. Very rarely will exceptions be granted. Proof should be provided that supports the reasons why the deadline was missed. 5 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Postmarks on mailed registration forms are not accepted and, if the registration form is received after the registration deadline, it will not be processed and will be returned to the sender. Registration cannot be completed via telephone or e-mail. Registration material without the required fee or with fees paid with a personal check will not be processed and will be returned to the candidate. (See 2.10 - Fee information for more details.) Incomplete registration material will not be accepted and will be returned to the candidate for completion. The candidate must re-submit the completed registration material by the registration deadline. Candidates must indicate where they would like to take the examination. Oral Examinations are scheduled to take place over a period of one or more weeks depending on the number of candidates scheduled. Candidates are tested individually during the Oral Examination and thus are scheduled for a specific date and time. Candidates must appear at their scheduled date and time for the Written and Oral Examinations. Rescheduling is not permitted. Candidates are responsible for keeping the National Center for State Courts informed of current name and address information to avoid missing important mailings. Such updates may be e- mailed to email@example.com. In the event of inclement weather, construction, traffic or other unforeseen delays, candidates should plan ahead and have contingency plans for arriving on time to take the examination. Should a natural disaster (e.g., fire, flood, earthquake, etc.) occur shortly before the examination at the test site, candidates must call NCSC at 757-259-7501 for information about alternative arrangements. 2.3 Cancellation policy Written Examination: To cancel a scheduled Written Examination and be eligible for a partial refund (a $75.00 processing fee will be deducted from any refund issued to a candidate who cancels the Written Examination), the cancellation request must be submitted in writing and received by NCSC no later than 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on the Friday 22 calendar days before the scheduled examination unless otherwise stated on the FCICE Web site. No refunds will be 6 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK given for cancellations received after the deadline or to candidates who do not appear for the Written Examination. Oral Examination: Candidates should advise NCSC as soon as it becomes known that they must cancel their Oral Examination registration, so that test schedules can be adjusted, if necessary. In the event of cancellation, the registration fee is not refundable. 2.4 Registering for an examination If you have never registered online for a Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination before, you will be asked to enter your title, first name, middle name, last name, Social Security number, mother's maiden name, date of birth, address (including city, state, and zip code), day phone number, evening phone number, e-mail address, and other information. (Please note – the Social Security number is provided solely for the purpose of issuing a separate, unique identification number. The Social Security number will not be shared with any other entity or person except the AO. The AO needs the Social Security numbers of Federally Certified Court Interpreters to request background checks through the FBI and to effect payments through the U.S. Treasury, should you be selected by a court and receive work assignments.) You are required to enter date of birth, mother's maiden name, name and address information, and at least one phone number or e-mail address. You will also be required to create a password. You will be issued an Examinee Identification Number. That number is important and you will need the number for subsequent communications with FCICE staff. 2.5 Online registration To register online, simply go to the Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination Web site at www.ncsconline.org/fcice, click on the Register Now link on any main page and follow the instructions for online registration for the Written or Oral Examination. You must register during the registration period indicated on the web site. You will not be allowed to register outside of the registration period. You will be prompted to indicate whether you request a special accommodation. If you indicate that you do require a special accommodation, you will be taken to a web page that describes the process for religious and ADA accommodation requests. The contact information for FCICE project staff is included on that page and they will help you through the registration process. When registering online, you must indicate the test site locations you prefer (first, second, and third choices). For test site locations, please go to the Exam Dates and Location page on the online Web pages. 7 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK To complete your registration process, you will be prompted to pay for the examination. You will need to enter your credit card number (MasterCard, Visa, or American Express), the CVV number, and the expiration date. Once your credit card payment is accepted, your demographic information and test location choices will be saved in a database; a confirmation page will appear, notifying you that your registration has been accepted and telling you what your examinee identification number is. You should print the confirmation page, or write your examinee identification number down and keep it in a safe place. Please read the confirmation page carefully for important information and follow the links to the Background Questionnaire. After registration has closed, your official, personalized Admission Letter will be posted on the FCICE Web site. You will need your ID number and password to access your official Admission Letter. Once the Admission Letters are posted, you can click the Registered Candidates Only link to view and print your letter. If you are unable to access the online Admission Letter please call the FCICE project staff at NCSC at (757) 259-7501. If your address changes after you have registered, please update your personal information by clicking on the Verify Personal Information link at the FCICE Web site or contact FCICE staff by e-mail (email@example.com) immediately. 2.6 Registration by mail Complete the requested information on the registration form by carefully following the instructions provided. For test site locations, please refer to the list of test locations on the registration form. Please indicate your first, second, and third choices for the test site preference. Please be sure to sign the form in the space provided at the bottom of the registration form. To request a printed registration form, contact NCSC, either by e-mail at firstname.lastname@example.com or by mail to the following address: The National Center for State Courts Attention: FCICE Program 300 Newport Avenue Williamsburg, VA 23185 If you require special accommodations, check the appropriate box provided on the registration form. FCICE project staff will contact you to help you through the registration process. Please refer to 2.9 – Special accommodations for specific information on the documentation required for special accommodation requests. Complete the fee information at the bottom of the registration form. You may pay by money order, cashier's check, Visa, MasterCard, or American Express. If you are using a credit card, be 8 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK sure to fill in the name on the card, the card number, and the expiration date and to sign the registration form. Mail your completed and signed registration form and fee to: The National Center for State Courts Attention: FCICE Program 300 Newport Avenue Williamsburg, VA 23185 Your mailed registration form must be received by the registration deadline, indicated on the form and online. Postmarks are not accepted and, if your registration form is received after the registration deadline, it will not be processed and will be returned to the sender. After the registration period is closed, your official, personalized Admission Letter will be sent to you. The Admission Letter will serve as a receipt that your registration materials were received. If you have not received your Admission Letter for the examination within thirty calendar days of the close of registration, please call the FCICE project staff at NCSC at (757) 259-7501. 2.7 Background Questionnaire Candidates who register for the Phase One Written Examination or the Phase Two Oral Examination are requested to complete a Background Questionnaire for each examination taken. If you have registered online, you may click on the Background Questionnaire link, complete, and submit the simple questionnaire. The Background Questionnaire is a critical element in quality control of the FCICE testing program. If you are unable to access the Internet to complete the Background Questionnaire, please contact the NCSC by e-mail at email@example.com, or by telephone at (757) 259-7501, to request a paper version of the questionnaire. 2.8 Special accommodations Candidates who are unable to take the examination on the scheduled date because of religious affiliations or who require adjustments in the testing procedure because of disability or impairment may request special accommodations. Requests for special accommodations will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis after all documentation regarding the requested accommodation has been received. Those requests that meet the criteria detailed below will be accommodated. Foremost among the related considerations is whether the accommodation will undermine test validity, given the job requirements for interpreters and the concomitant test 9 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK constructs2. For example, an accommodation for a hearing impairment would likely not be approved because the ability to hear well is an essential job requirement. Candidates requesting special accommodations must register by mailing in all registration materials and required documents by the registration deadline; online registration is not available for candidates requesting special accommodations. For additional information on special accommodations, please call FCICE project staff at NCSC at (757) 259-7501. Religious accommodations: For special accommodations due to religious affiliations, candidates must submit a letter indicating their religious affiliation and what days of the week are acceptable for testing. The letter must be on the religious organization's letterhead, signed by the religious professional, and must be submitted by the registration deadline. Faxed submissions are acceptable for this purpose. ADA accommodations: For Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodations due to a disability or impairment, candidates must submit a letter indicating what the disability or impairment is and describing the recommended accommodation for the candidate. The letter must be on the medical professional's official letterhead, signed by the medical professional, and be submitted by the registration deadline. Faxed submissions are acceptable for this purpose. 2.9 Fee information Fees are to be paid by cashier's check, money order, Visa, MasterCard, or American Express only, according to the following fee schedule (these fees are subject to change for subsequent testing cycles). Personal checks and/or cash are not accepted. Make cashier's checks or money orders payable to the National Center for State Courts. The payment transaction will occur upon receipt of the registration. • Written Examination Fee: $140.00 • Nonrefundable Oral Examination Fee: $200.00 • Rescoring Written Examination Results (see 2.12 – Score reporting procedures and timelines): $40.00 2.10 Taking the examination Please arrive at the test site early. Being late will increase your stress level and you will be denied entry to the testing room for the Written Examination once the test administrator has begun to read the examination instructions. If you are late for your Oral Examination, it is 2 A "construct" is an attribute of people, reflected in test performance; for example, the ability to perform the activities of a court interpreter. 10 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK unlikely that you will be rescheduled for the current test cycle and will have to wait for the next regularly scheduled Oral Examination. When you arrive at your testing location, there will be signs posted, identifying the waiting or registration area. If you are taking an Oral Examination, please remember that the test administrator may be testing another examinee when you arrive; simply be seated in the waiting area until the administrator comes for you. If you are taking a Written Examination, you will see a registration area where you should sign in. Present your printed Admission Letter at the test site as your official confirmation to take the examination. Official identification is required for all examinations and only the following will be accepted (current or issued within the last five years): • Driver's license or State DMV identification card • U.S. Passport or passport issued by a foreign government • U.S. Military identification card. The FCICE program strives to ensure that the temperature in the testing rooms will be comfortable and that the rooms have the appropriate heating and air conditioning controls, however, we cannot guarantee that the room temperature will be pleasing for every examinee and we recommend that you dress in layers and bring a sweater or light jacket with you. Please leave dictionaries and reference materials at home, in addition to all other electronic devices, including cell phones. These items are NOT allowed in the testing room and test staff is not responsible for their security while you are taking the examination. You should bring only your Admission Letter, identification document, keys, a sweater or light jacket, and a wallet or small purse to the testing site. Everything you need to take the test will be provided, including pencils, pens, and note paper. Before the test, you will be asked if you have a cell phone or any other electronic devices, and if you do, they will be placed in a zip lock bag and held by the test proctors (Written Examination) or the registration clerk (Oral Examination) until the test has concluded. After the test the items will be returned to you. You may be disqualified from taking a federal examination in the future if you are found to have any electronic devices on your person while taking a test. Any candidate who is found to have access to equipment or material that could be used to assist in taking the examination or that could be used to record or transmit any portion of an examination will be permanently disqualified from taking any test in the Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination program. 11 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Smoking, eating, and/or drinking are not permitted in the testing room. During the Oral Examination, drinking water will be provided for you during the examination. No visitors, except for official observers, are permitted in the testing room. You may wear a watch (without an alarm) during the test if you wish; however, the test administrator will keep the official time. Please use the restroom before you enter the testing room. If you request a break during the administration of the Oral Examination, you will interrupt your pace and interfere with your concentration. If you request a break during the administration of the Written Examination, no additional time will be granted for you to finish the examination. 2.11 Score reporting procedures and timelines Written Examination: Approximately eight weeks following the Written Examination, score results letters will be mailed to candidates at the address provided during registration or the new address provided following registration, if any. Candidates who have not received test scores ten weeks following the examination should assume that a problem in mailing has occurred and should contact FCICE project staff at NCSC at (757) 259-7501. A master list of candidate names and test scores will be provided to the AO when results have been compiled. Candidates may appeal the results of a Written Examination based only upon the following grounds (see the Dispute Resolution policy, below): • Significant irregularity in the exam administration • Discrimination • Bias • Fraud, or • Inappropriate application of ADA or other accommodations. Candidates may request a rescore of the answer sheet from the Written Examination. Requests for rescoring the Written Examination must be submitted in writing and accompanied by a $40.00 cashier's check or money order only, payable to the National Center for State Courts. No personal checks, cash, or credit cards are accepted. Rescore requests must be submitted within 30 days of the date on the Written Examination results letter. The results of the rescore of the Written Examination are sent to the candidate within ten business days of the receipt of the request and fee. If the rescore results in a score change for the candidate, then the $40.00 fee will be refunded. It is important to note that, since 2002, twenty percent (20%) of all the Written Examinations are hand rescored as part of the overall quality control process. In addition, since 2002, no score has changed as a result of a hand rescore. 12 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK You will be provided with a breakdown of your scores after the test; however, it is important for you to recognize that taken individually, the score on a test part will not serve as a diagnostic tool. That is, it will not accurately inform you about particular strengths or weaknesses in that part of the test, simply because there are not a sufficient number of items in each part to confirm a particular strength or weakness. As discussed in 1.6 – Practice Tests, above, you might obtain more detailed feedback about your skill level by taking the Practice Test, although, like the score breakdown, it is not intended to be a diagnostic tool. Oral Examination: Candidates who pass the Written Examination are eligible to take the Phase Two Oral Examination. Prior to the next Oral Examination, those candidates should receive an Oral Examination registration form and a Test Location Information insert. However, it is the responsibility of the candidates who have passed the Written Examination to inform themselves of the schedule for the upcoming Oral Examination by checking the website frequently and by requesting registration information during the appropriate registration period. Candidates must submit new registration materials and the appropriate fee in order to register for the Oral Examination. A master list of candidate names and test scores will be provided to the AO when results have been compiled. Approximately eight weeks following the scoring of the Oral Examinations, results will be mailed to candidates at the address provided during registration. Information about when the results will be mailed will be posted on the web site. Candidates are responsible for providing updated contact information to the NCSC until they have received their results; those who pass the exam successfully must advise NCSC of any change in name or mailing address until they have received their certificate from the AO. The Director of the AO will confer certification on candidates who pass the Oral Exam. Certificates are usually mailed to successful candidates in December or January following the examination. Candidates may appeal the results of an Oral Examination based only upon the following grounds (see the Dispute Resolution policy, below): • Significant irregularity in the exam administration • Discrimination • Bias • Fraud, or • Inappropriate application of ADA or other accommodations. 2.12 Dispute Resolution Policy 2.12.1 Complaints and appeals 13 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Complaints and appeals are written communications to the National Center for State Courts concerning a test candidate's score on a Written or Oral Examination. • Complaints include any communication received in writing from a test candidate in regard to a test administration or test score report. • Appeals are written communications that specifically request an action to reconsider the scores reported to the candidate. The only grounds for appeal that will be considered include those showing evidence of: • Significant irregularity in the exam administration • Discrimination • Bias • Fraud, or • Inappropriate application of ADA or other accommodations. Appeals based on alleged inappropriateness of test content or any specific test item(s) are not considered. In addition, appeals on grounds other than those listed above are not accepted or acted upon. This is not to imply that applicants are discouraged from providing thoughtful feedback about their test experience. All comments and inquiries are reviewed and given consideration. A standard form response is used when an appeal fails to meet the required criteria or when a complaint or appeal is based on test content or specific test items. Complaints and appeals must be sent to: National Center for State Courts Attention: FCICE Program 300 Newport Avenue Williamsburg, VA 23185 2.12.2 When and how should complaints and appeals be filed? The procedure for filing complaints and appeals is substantially the same for both the Written Examination and the Oral Examination. Complaints and appeals must be submitted in writing within thirty (30) calendar days from the date on the applicant's results report letter. A complaint must clearly state what information or activity the examinee is requesting, or, if there is a question, what the question is. All complaints are reviewed and will receive a response. An appeal must state the basis for the examinee's belief that a "fail" status was the result of bias, fraud, discrimination, inappropriate application of ADA or other special accommodations, or manifest error in the administration of the exam. Evidence that supports the examinee's belief 14 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK must be included in the appeal. Only letters of appeal written and submitted by the examinee or the legal representative of the examinee are accepted. Letters written on behalf of an examinee by anyone other than the examinee or legal counsel are not accepted or acted upon. A standard form response is used under these circumstances. 2.12.3 When will a response to a complaint or an appeal be received? If a complaint or appeal meets the above-mentioned criteria, acknowledgement is sent within ten days and a final, official response is mailed within 120 days of receipt of the appeal, indicating either the resolution of the issue or advising the complainant/appellent that the investigation is ongoing. If an appeal is disallowed because it fails to meet the requirements, it is considered a complaint and a final, official response is sent within 120 days. 2.12.4 Confidentiality of investigation findings All investigations of disputes are confidential and internal. Summaries of findings may be sent to the examinee, but the examinee is not entitled to review original papers or discussions resulting from an investigation. 2.12.5 Finality of decisions Decisions based on the findings of the NCSC are final. Unless otherwise directed by the AO, after the decisions are made by the NCSC and the examinee is notified, NCSC takes no further action and forwards all further related correspondence and calls to the AO. 2.12.6 Request for hand rescore of Written Examination Candidates may request a rescore of the answer sheet from the Written Examination. Requests for rescoring the Written Examination must be submitted in writing and accompanied by a $40.00 cashier's check or money order only, payable to the National Center for State Courts. No personal checks, cash, or credit cards are accepted. Rescore requests must be submitted within 30 days of the date on the Written Examination results letter. The results of the rescore of the Written Examination are sent to the candidate within ten business days of the receipt of the request and fee. If the rescore results in a score change for the candidate, then the $40.00 fee will be refunded. It is important to note that, since 2002, twenty percent (20%) of all the Written Examinations are hand rescored as part of the 15 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK overall quality control process. In addition, since 2002, no score has changed as a result of a hand rescore. 16 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK PART 3 THE WRITTEN EXAMINATION 3.1 Description of the Written Examination The Written Examination has two sections: English and Spanish. Each section has a total of 100 multiple-choice items divided into five parts.3 Some of the items are being field tested and will not be scored. The five parts are: Part I: Reading Comprehension. Reading Comprehension items measure the ability to read and understand texts that reflect the language proficiency required of a Federally Certified Court Interpreter (FCCI). Part II: Usage. Usage items measure the knowledge of grammar and idioms that is representative of the high level of general language proficiency required of an FCCI. Part III: Error Detection. Error Detection items measure the knowledge of grammar that an FCCI must possess to carry out job-related responsibilities. Part IV: Synonyms. Synonym items measure the breadth of general vocabulary that an FCCI must possess. Part V: Best Translation of a Word or Phrase. Best Translation items measure the ability to correctly translate an underlined word or phrase, tapping the knowledge of vocabulary, grammar, and idioms required of an FCCI. The five parts of the English section are followed by the five parts of the Spanish section. The Written Examination has a total of 200 items. 3.2 Scoring the Written Examination The English and Spanish sections of the Written Examination are taken on the same day and scoring of the sections is conjunctive rather than compensatory. That is, the minimum passing score must be achieved on each of the exam sections. The minimum passing score is 75 percent, which is the standard set by the AO. A candidate who passes only one section must retake and pass both sections at a subsequent administration. The examination is designed to measure proficiency in English and Spanish and as such only a total score for each language is reported. You will be provided with a breakdown of your scores on the test; however, it is important for you to recognize that taken individually, the score on a test part will not serve as a diagnostic tool; that is, it may not accurately inform you about 3 The time limit for completing the test prior to 2008 was two and a half hours and the test consisted of 160 items, 80 in English and 80 in Spanish. In 2008, there were 100 test items in the English section and 100 in the Spanish section, increasing the total number of items on the test to 200. The AO will continue that practice in subsequent years. 17 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK particular strengths or weaknesses in language skills. (See 2.12 – Score reporting procedures and timelines.) Your proficiency in each language is measured using a variety of question types and formats. If you wish to obtain more detailed feedback about your skill level for each type of question, we encourage you to review the Practice Test. The Practice Test is designed to be equivalent to the actual test forms and will provide you with an idea of how well you might perform. 3.3 Development of the Written Examination The written portion of the examination was developed by a diverse team of language professionals whose areas of expertise include language testing, language teaching, linguistics, and court interpreting. Content specialists were also consulted to ensure the authenticity of language usage in legal and other specialized contexts. The Written Examination, like the Oral Examination, assumes a high degree of literacy in the source and target languages and familiarity with a range of language varieties and registers. The Written Examination complements the Oral Examination in that it tests comprehension of written text, knowledge of vocabulary and idioms, recognition of grammatically correct language, and the ability to recognize appropriate target language rendering of source language text. The examination specifications for the Written Examination guide the development process, ensuring that each form of the examination is reliable, valid, and similar to the others in content, structure, and level of difficulty. Examination reliability, the consistency of measurement of the examination, and validity, the extent to which the examination measures what it is intended to measure and is useful for its intended purpose, are established through expert review of the examination specifications and the examination forms and through field testing the exam items. Reliability is a prerequisite for validity; that is, an examination such as the Written Examination cannot measure what it is intended to measure and be useful for its intended purpose unless there is consistency of measurement across and within examination forms. New forms are developed periodically as needed, according to the examination specifications. Each form has new test items, which are field tested to ensure equivalent form reliability and internal consistency and each is administered to a population of candidates as similar as possible to the population of individuals expected to take the test routinely. Statistical analyses of the items and tests are conducted to establish the internal consistency of each test form and to allow statistical equating of the forms. Item analysis allows verification that individual items, both existing and new, function as they are intended. If items on a new test form do not function as they are intended, they are not considered during scoring and are deleted from the score and from the final operational form. New test items that are added to existing test forms are not considered for scoring purposes, but are statistically analyzed and, if they function well, placed in a test "bank" for use in subsequent test forms. This process ensures that each item is related to the skills tested by other items and by the test as a whole. The item analysis also guides any minor revision of examinations that is needed. The end result is a high degree of internal consistency for each test form. The examination forms themselves are statistically 18 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK equated, removing the inevitable minor differences in difficulty that occur across multiple forms of a test. The scores reported to the examinee in the score results letter are the equated scores, ensuring that identical scores on different forms reflect the same level of competency. Test validity, the extent to which the test measures what it is intended to measure, is supported by the examination specifications and the test development process. The specifications and examination forms undergo a series of rigorous review by language professionals who verify that the specifications and tests are comprehensive and that they identify and measure the skills and knowledge required of a Federally Certified Court Interpreter. These reviews support both the construct4 and content validity of the Written Examination. A high degree of internal consistency and equivalent form reliability also help ensure the validity of the examinations. 3.4 Suggestions on how to prepare for the FCICE Written Examination The Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination program assumes that a court interpreter must have high-level proficiency in both English and Spanish. If you do not have such proficiency, you should focus on improving your general language proficiency before registering for an examination. Some strategies for doing this include: • enroll in university level courses in a country where the language is spoken; • read widely in both languages, routinely using a dictionary to look up unfamiliar words; • write down and memorize new vocabulary words and phrases; • write often, using the new vocabulary you have learned; • correct your writing, and ask others to correct it, too; • translate a variety of texts into the other language and have a competent translator correct the translation. If you already have high-level proficiency in both English and Spanish, in order to prepare for the exam you may wish to do the following: • Read − major newspaper editorials and articles, as well as news items related to legal matters and law enforcement, in both English and Spanish. Look for the main point and supporting arguments; − laws, codes, international treaties and conventions, contracts, and other legal writings, in both English and Spanish; − U.S. court documents such as indictments, sentences, probation and police reports, affidavits, etc.; − documents that in Spanish-speaking countries would be drawn up by a notary public, attorney, and government agencies, such as wills, contracts, powers-of-attorney, and birth and death certificates. 4 A "construct" is an attribute of people, reflected in test performance; for example, the language proficiency needed to perform the activities of a court interpreter. 19 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK • Practice translating texts related to legal matters, such as those mentioned above. • Brush up on grammar, especially areas such as verb tenses and modes, as well as irregular verbs, pronouns, agreement, comparatives and superlatives, and the use of passive versus the active voice. • Practice translating sentences that contain the grammar points mentioned above as well as sentences where the syntax in English and Spanish is not parallel. • Expand your vocabulary by adding terms in all registers as well as idiomatic expressions. Focus on nouns, verbs, slang, and adjectives that might be used in the testimony of a wide variety of witnesses, including expert witnesses. • Become familiar with court proceedings, including the terminology and syntax involved. It might be advisable to take a court interpreting course or to acquire court interpreting experience in state courts. The latter is particularly useful in preparation for the FCICE Oral Examination. 3.5 Hints for the days before the Written Examination The following tips may be helpful: • If you are not familiar with the location of the testing site, you may want to drive to the site, using the directions that are provided to you. If possible, try to do this even before the day before your test so that you are comfortable with the route. Take note of the length of time it took to arrive at the site and where the parking is located, and think about what impact morning traffic might have on your commute. Plan your departure time according to what you learn. Allow enough time to arrive at least twenty minutes early – late entry into the exam is not permitted. • Check the parking facilities, especially if you require a parking space reserved for the handicapped. All facilities are required to provide handicap access and parking, but some facilities provide more spaces than others. If it appears that there are few available parking spaces, check with the facility to see if a parking permit can be provided or if a space can be reserved for you. • Gather the materials you need to take to the test center and put them in a place convenient for you before you leave for the test. Use the following checklist: 1. paper printout of your Admission Letter; 2. picture identification (you will not be admitted to the test center without it); 3. directions to the testing site (if necessary). 20 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Leave your cell phone and other electronic devices, books, large purses, and all other items at home or in the trunk of your car. You are not allowed to have anything in the testing room except a small purse or wallet, and a light jacket or sweater. • Take a few minutes to review the sample questions and directions in this Examinee Handbook. Hours of intense study the night before the examination probably will not help your performance and might cause you to feel anxious. A quick review of the information studied earlier will probably make you feel more comfortable and better prepared. • Get a good night's sleep before the examination. Go to bed early. Staying up late may leave you too tired to do your best work during the examination. Relax. Go to a movie, watch television, or read a book to take your mind off the exam. 3.6 Procedures for the day of the Written Examination On the day of the examination: Before the test • Eat and drink something before the test. You will not be allowed to bring food or drink into the test center. • Do not telephone test center proctors in advance. They have neither the authority nor the information necessary to admit anyone until the day and time of the test. Call the National Center for State Courts (NCSC) if you have any questions. • Arrive early. The proctor of the examination will not allow anyone entrance to the test center after the reading of instructions has started. Starting time is the local time for all administrations. The actual starting time of the examination may vary at different centers due to pre-administration procedures. The test takes 3 ¼ hours.5 You should expect to be at the test center for up to 5 hours in order to complete pre-test and post-test tasks. • Bring your Admission Letter with you to the test site. • You will be admitted to the test center only if you have an acceptable form of government-issued picture identification. • Leave dictionaries and reference materials at home. Leave your cell phone, beeper, PDA, and other electronic devices at home or in the car. These items will not be permitted in the testing room, and test staff will not be responsible for their security while you are taking the examination. Before the test, you will be asked if you have a cell phone or any other electronic devices, and if you do, they will be placed in a zip lock bag and held by the test proctors until the test has concluded. After the test the items will be returned to 5 Beginning in 2008, there are 100 test items in the English section and 100 in the Spanish section, increasing the total number of items on the test to 200. Therefore, extra time is allotted. 21 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK you. You may be disqualified from taking a federal examination in the future if you are found to have any electronic devices on your person while taking a test. Any candidate who is found to have access to equipment or material that could be used to assist in taking the examination or that could be used to record or transmit any portion of an examination will be permanently disqualified from taking any test in the Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination program. • Everything you need to take the test will be provided, including pencils. • Use the restroom before the exam begins. If you go to the restroom during the examination, you will not be allowed extra time to complete the exam. During the test • Follow test center procedures. The staff at each center observes certain standard procedures to ensure that every examinee has equal testing time and that the operation of the center meets the criteria established by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts for standardized administration. The success of the test administration depends in part on your following these procedures. • The proctor will tell you when to start and when to stop working on the examination. • Smoking, eating, or drinking is not permitted in the testing room. • Except for official observers, visitors are not permitted. • You may take a watch (without an alarm) to the center to pace yourself during the examination. However, the official time is kept by the test center proctor. • During the test, refrain from any unnecessary talking. You may not give or receive help, or use books, papers, or aids of any kind. Do not read or work on the test during a time not authorized by the proctor or remove testing materials from the testing room. Candidates may only be excused from the testing room during an examination when they follow procedures announced in advance by the local test proctor. • Any candidate found to have access to equipment or material that could be used to assist in taking the examination or that could be used to record or transmit any portion of the examination will be permanently disqualified from taking any test in the Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination program. • During the test, work quickly and accurately. Do not waste time. Mark those items for which you are not sure of the correct answer (mark only in the test booklet, not on the answer sheet); after finishing the test, go back and review your answers. 22 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK We make every effort to ensure that on the day of the test, the test room and surrounding environment will be free of noisy or other annoying distractions. However, experience has shown that regardless of these efforts, events will sometimes occur that may be distracting to some examinees (construction noise, sporting events, housekeepers vacuuming in adjacent rooms, etc.). If that happens, we encourage you to ignore the distraction and simply continue with the test. The test administrators are trained to try to solve any problems if possible or to allow extra time if appropriate. Please remember that, as a practicing federal court interpreter, you will experience distractions and unexpected occurrences and will have to deal with them in a professional manner. 3.7 Suggested study references for the Written Examination Barron's 1001 Pitfalls in English Grammar. (1986). Barron's Educational Series (ISBN 0-8120- 3719-7). Escarpanter, J. ( 1995). Cómo eliminar los errores y dudas del lenguaje, Editorial Playor (ISBN 84-359-0388-5). Fernández de la Torriente, G. (1997). Cómo aumentar su vocabulario 1, Editorial Playor, (ISBN 84-359-0124-6). Mikkelson, H. (1995). The Interpreter's Edge; Turbo Supplement, Monterey, CA: ACEBO (ISBN 1-880594-13-7). Moliner, M. (1998). Diccionario de uso del español, Editorial Gredos (ISBN 84-249-1974-2). The following web sites have been recommended by a native English speaking candidate who found them useful as sources of practice material for Spanish grammar. Candidates who explore these resources should be mindful that their accuracy has not been verified by authoritative review. http://www.indiana.edu/~call/ejercicios.html http://www.unc.edu/linguistics/courses.html http://uts.cc.utexas.edu/~annw/gramatica.html 3.8 Discussion and sample items In the following discussion, English and Spanish examples are provided for each section of the examination; however, in an operational examination, the five parts of the English section are presented first, and then the five parts of the Spanish section are presented. There are 20 items in each of the five parts of each section, English and Spanish. Part I: Reading Comprehension 23 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK The items assess understanding of main ideas and supporting information. Inferred meaning can also be assessed. There are four types of reading comprehension texts on the Written Examination: general interest texts, non-specialist legal texts, specialist legal texts, and language-specific legal texts. Language-specific texts for Spanish are typical of the types of documents drafted by a notary public, a government agency, or a court and may include contracts, wills, birth and death certificates, marriage certificates, court decisions, etc. Language-specific texts for English are typical of documents that are likely to be part of criminal court proceedings or files, such as foreign or domestic police reports, probation reports, complaints, indictments, affidavits, etc. Stimulus texts are 400-600 words long. 24 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Here is an abbreviated example of an English non-specialist legal text with several example questions. Note that this sample text, which is about 220 words in length, is shorter than the examination texts, which are 400-600 words in length. Supreme Court Reverses Lower Court The Supreme Court ruled Monday that police cannot conduct an extensive search of a murder scene without first obtaining a warrant. The unsigned opinion in the case of a West Virginia minister who murdered his wife reinforced a 1978 decision and reversed a lower court's ruling that the scene of a homicide is exempt from the constitutional prohibition on warrantless searches. The defendant had called police to a cabin that he and his wife were renting, telling them that a man had broken in and knocked him unconscious. When he awoke, he found his wife dead, beaten to death. Police arrived and began searching the cabin. Opening a briefcase, they found an envelope containing photographs of a man who appeared to be taking off his jeans. It was later revealed that the man was a friend of the defendant and a member of his congregation. Prosecutors charged the minister with his wife's murder, introducing the photos as evidence that he had had an intimate relationship with the man and arguing that he killed his wife in part because she was enraged by the relationship. The defendant tried to keep the photos out of his 1997 trial, contending that police needed a warrant before going through his belongings. The trial judge denied his objection, declaring an exception to the warrant requirement for homicide scenes. 1. How did the photographs found at the crime scene incriminate the man in the murder of his wife? A. They were believed to show evidence of the man's violent nature. B. They showed evidence of the man's intention to murder his wife. C. They supported claims that the man had a recent life insurance policy on his wife. D. They were believed to be evidence of a relationship that angered his wife. The correct answer to question 1 is option D. The information needed to respond correctly to this item is located primarily in the last sentence of the second paragraph. 2. On what basis did the trial judge allow the photographs to be included as evidence? A. The evidence was found at the location of a homicide. B. The defendant's story was not supported by the evidence. C. The defendant was accused of committing a homicide. D. The briefcase where the photographs had been kept was not locked. The correct answer to question 2 is option A. The information needed to respond correctly to this item is located primarily in the last sentence of the third paragraph. 25 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK The abbreviated text, Referéndum Venezolano, that appears below is typical of the general text type for Spanish. Note that this sample text, which has about 200 words, is shorter than the examination texts, which are 400-600 words in length. Referéndum Venezolano El resultado del referéndum verificado el domingo pasado en Venezuela revela que el poder de convocatoria del Presidente Hugo Chávez era menor que lo esperado. Chávez ha triunfado, por cierto, y el país se ha pronunciado a favor de una Asamblea Constituyente destinada a reformar la actual Carta Fundamental que rige al país. Más del 80 por ciento de los votantes, que sumaron unos tres millones de electores, respondieron afirmativamente a las dos consultas hechas por el gobierno. Estas, si bien incorporan elementos nuevos en el debate político, como la transformación del Estado, la creación de un nuevo ordenamiento jurídico y el funcionamiento de una democracia social y participativa, plantean futuros desencuentros en torno a sus reales alcances. El éxito proclamado por Chávez, sin embargo, fue opacado por la abrumadora abstención, que alcanzó a más del 60 por ciento de la población inscrita. Los cinco millones y medio de personas que no participaron en la consulta representaron, según la oposición, una grave derrota para el mandatario. Pero, la escasa concurrencia de votantes a las urnas, que había sido anticipada por las encuestas, no pudo ser impedida por el Presidente, quien hizo varios intentos para evitar el abstencionismo. 1. ¿En qué se basa el autor para afirmar que el Presidente Hugo Chávez tuvo un "poder de convocatoria menor que lo esperado?" A. en que sólo el 80% de los votantes se pronunció a favor del plebiscito B. en que tres millones de personas votaron por la creación de la Asamblea Constituyente C. en que la mayoría absoluta de los votantes inscritos no votó en el referéndum D. en que la Asamblea Constituyente no obtuvo la mayoría de los votos emitidos The correct answer to question 1 is option C. The information needed to respond correctly to this item is located primarily in the first sentence of the second paragraph although the quotation is from the opening sentence. 2. ¿Cuál es la función que llevará a cabo la Asamblea Constituyente venezolana? A. redactar una nueva constitución política B. velar por el funcionamiento de una democracia social C. incorporar nuevos elementos al debate político D. crear futuros desencuentros nacionales The correct answer to question 2 is option A. The information needed to respond correctly to this item is located primarily in the second sentence of the first paragraph. 26 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Part II: Usage The usage items are intended to measure knowledge of standard grammar and common idioms. Grammar usage items consist of a sentence with an underlined portion containing a grammatical form that may or may not include an error. Three alternatives for the underlined portion are presented in the options, with option D being "no change." Only one of the options presented for the underlined portion is correct according to standard or normative grammar. The examinee must select the option that reflects this standard or normative use, or if the underlined portion represents the correct form, "no change" should be selected. Here are four examples, two English and two Spanish, of grammar usage items for your review. For each of the following sentences, either choose the alternative (A, B, or C) that best replaces the underlined portion, or, if the original sentence is best, mark option D (no change). 1. An effective defense counsel and an attentive jury was key in the acquittal. A. counsel, besides attentive jurors, were key B. counsel as well as attentive jurors was key C. counsel and an attentive jury were key D. no change The correct answer to question 1 is option C. This item tests subject-verb agreement. Only choice C exhibits correct agreement. The underlined portion of the sentence and choices A and B all contain errors. Because a change is needed, D is not the right choice. 2. Government figures show that in 1995-2000 the economy grew at a much faster rate than in the previous ten years. A. a more faster B. a lot more faster C. a further faster D. no change The correct answer to question 2 is option D. This item tests comparatives. The underlined portion of the sentence does not contain an error and, therefore, no change is necessary. Options A, B, and C all contain errors. 3. El delincuente apresado ayer resultó ser mucho más peligroso que la policía había imaginado. A. peligroso de lo que la policía B. peligroso que lo que la policía C. peligroso lo que la policía D. sin cambio 27 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK The correct answer to question 3 is option A. This item tests comparatives. Only choice A exhibits the correct use of a comparative form. The underlined portion of the sentence and choices B and C all contain errors. Because a change is needed, D is not the right choice. 4. Está lista la solicitud de libertad bajo fianza; el abogado va a entregársela mañana al actuario. A. se la va a entregársela B. se va a entregarla C. la va a entregársela D. sin cambio The correct answer to question 4 is option D. This item tests the placement of pronouns. The underlined portion of the sentence does not contain an error and, therefore, no change is necessary. Options A, B, and C all contain errors. Following are two examples of idiom usage items, one in English and one in Spanish. 1. The robber was caught red-handed as he exited the bank. A. with his hands up B. without a chase C. without effort D. with the evidence The correct response to the English idiom example is option D. The best replacement for the expression "red-handed" is "with the evidence." 2. Aquella tarde, el autobús iba de bote en bote. A. bamboleándose B. avanzando a gran velocidad C. lleno de gente D. casi vacío The correct response to the Spanish idiom example is option C. The best replacement for the expression "de bote en bote" is "lleno de gente." Part III: Error Detection The Error Detection segment of the Written Examination is intended to measure knowledge of standard forms of grammatical expression, which is essential for the work of a Federally Certified Court Interpreter. Eight of the Error Detection items are based on a single, isolated sentence. The remaining twelve items are based on two six-sentence paragraphs, each sentence of which is an item. Three words or phrases are underlined in each item. One of the three underlined segments may contain an error. In that case, the examinee identifies which underlined word or phrase must be corrected in order for the sentence to be grammatically 28 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK correct. The fourth option is No Error (D). The examinee marks No error (D) when the sentence is correct as stated. Following are two examples, one English and one Spanish, of the single sentence Error Detection items. In the following sentences three segments are underlined and followed by a letter (A, B, C). One of these segments might contain an error. Choose the segment that contains the error and mark your choice on your answer sheet. If the sentence does not contain an error, mark D (No error). There may be grammatical, syntactic, or semantic errors. There is no more than one error in a sentence. 1. The victim's family reached a sense of closing (A) when the bomber was sentenced (B) to two life terms (C) without parole. No error (D) The correct answer to the English example is option A because "closing" is an incorrect word form in this context. The correct form would be "closure." 2. Una de las medidas adoptadas (A) para hacer enfrente (B) al desempleo es premiar a (C) las empresas que contratan a empleados jóvenes. Sin error (D) The correct answer to the Spanish example is option B because "enfrente" is an incorrect word form in this context. The correct form would be "frente." Here is an example of the items contained in the six-sentence paragraph. An English set is provided to illustrate this segment of the exam, however, Spanish Error Detection items are presented in the same manner. The six sentences that follow form a paragraph. In each sentence three segments are underlined and followed by a letter (A, B, C). One of these segments might contain an error. Choose the segment that contains the error and mark your choice on your answer sheet. If the sentence does not contain an error, mark D (No error). There may be grammatical, syntactic, or semantic errors. There is no more than one error in a sentence. 1. At the Nice meeting, European Union (A) will have to embrace institutional reforms (B) as a prelude (C) to enlargement. No error (D) The correct answer to question 1 in the set is option A because in option A the definite article "the" is missing. 2. The Union's decision-making processes, designed for (A) a trading bloc of six nations, are hardly (B) suited for today's common market of 15 nations, let alone (C) one of 27. No error (D) The correct answer to question 2 in the set is option D because there is no error in the sentence. 29 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 3. The problem is that (A) individual member states champion reforms (B) that suit their often conflicting views of it's fundamental nature (C). No error (D) The correct answer to question 3 in the set is option C because the pronoun "its," referring to the Union, should be used in this context. 4. France and Germany, for instance, both remain (A) strong proponents of expanding the Union, though one sees it (B) as a federation of nations, the other of peoples (C). No error (D) The correct answer to question 4 in the set is option D because there is no error in the sentence. 5. France would like to reaffirm the supremacy (A) of the Council of Ministers, whose member (B) represent the national governments (C). No error (D) The correct answer to question 5 in the set is option B because the singular form of the verb "member" is incorrect. The verb form "represent" requires a plural subject. 6. Germany would like (A) to strength the (B) supranational policymaking (C) European Commission. No error (D) The correct answer to question 6 in the set is option B because the infinitive verb form "stengthen" is required in this context. Part IV: Synonyms Items in this part of the Written Examination measure the breadth and precision of vocabulary because a Federally Certified Court Interpreter must have a broad and precise vocabulary and be sensitive to slight differences in connotation among words of similar meaning. A Synonym item presents the vocabulary word – a noun, verb, adjective, or adverb – in a non-defining context. The vocabulary item to be tested is underlined, and four options are offered. One option is the best response; that is, closest in meaning to the underlined word. The three incorrect options are at approximately the same level of difficulty (word frequency) as the underlined word but do not have the same meaning as the underlined word. Following are one English and one Spanish example of Synonyms items. From among the four alternatives (A, B, C, D) choose the one closest in meaning to the underlined word in the sentence. 1. We were struck by his demeanor. A. disquiet B. behavior C. weapon D. attire 30 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK The correct answer to the English example is option B because the word "behavior" is closest in meaning to the underlined word in the sentence, "demeanor." 2. Pese a la agresividad mostrada por el fiscal durante el contrainterrogatorio, el acusado se mantuvo impávido. A. impertérrito B. henchido C. incólume D. imborrable The correct answer to the Spanish example is option A because the word "impertérrito" is closest in meaning to the underlined word in the sentence, "impávido." Part V: Best Translation of a word or phrase Translating is similar to interpreting insofar as it involves rendering a word or phrase from one language to another. The stimulus for a Best Translation item is a sentence with an underlined word or phrase. From the four alternatives, the examinee must choose the best rendering in the target language of the underlined portion. Items for which the sentences are in Spanish and the alternatives in English are included in the English section of the Written Examination; items for which the sentences are in English and the alternatives in Spanish are included in the Spanish section of the Written Examination. Eight of the items are based on isolated sentences. The remaining items are presented in three sets of four items each. Following are two examples of the single sentence Best Translation part of the examination. For each of the underlined segments in the sentences that follow, choose the alternative (A, B, C, D) closest in meaning to the underlined word or phrase. In choosing your answer, consider the context of the underlined portion and what the translation of the entire sentence would be. This example is from Spanish into English and would be included in the English section of the Written Examination. 1. El dinero recaudado apenas alcanzará para cubrir un quinto de los gastos. A. a quintuplet B. one item C. one fifth D. a fortnight The correct answer to the Spanish into English example is option C because "one fifth" is the best rendering of "un quinto." This example is from English into Spanish and would be included in the Spanish portion of the Written Examination. 2. All subsequent allocations will be decided by the incoming Board. 31 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK A. posteriores B. pendientes C. subsecuentes D. subsiguientes The correct answer to the Spanish into English example is option A because "posteriores" is the best rendering of "subsequent." Following are examples similar to the four-item sets that are contained in the Best Translation segment of the examination. This example is from Spanish into English and would be included in the English portion of the Written Examination. De lo anterior (1) se concluye que analizados y valorados de manera conjunta los elementos probatorios (2) mencionados, de acuerdo con el numeral 175 del Código Federal de Procedimientos Penales, constituyen prueba plena de que alguien se apoderó de una cosa mueble (3) ajena, en este caso una unidad automotriz, sin derecho y sin consentimiento de la persona que puede disponer de ella con arreglo a la Ley (4), cuyos hechos ocurrieron en el vecino país del Norte; de ahí se justifique la existencia del cuerpo del delito de Robo, conforme a su definición. 1. A. From the foregoing B. Due to the preceding C. In the former case D. Given the foregone The correct answer to question 1 is option A because the phrase "from the foregoing" is the best rendering of "de lo anterior" in this context. 2. A. evidence B. proof C. probationary material D. probative elements The correct answer to question 2 is option A because the word "evidence" is the best rendering of "elementos probatorios" in this context. 3. A. real property B. personal property C. durable goods D. material goods 32 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK The correct answer to question 3 is option B because the phrase "personal property" is the best rendering of "cosa mueble" in this context. 4. A. that is able to discard her according to the law B. who may statutorily dispose of it C. to whom the law gives access thereto D. who can make lawful use thereof The correct answer to question 4 is option D because the phrase"who can make lawful use thereof" is the best rendering of "que puede disponer de ella con arreglo a la Ley" in this context. Finally, this example is from English into Spanish and would be included in the Spanish portion of the Written Examination. WHEREAS: (5) (A) Pursuant to an agreement of even date herewith (6) between the aforementioned (7) parties (the "Principal Agreement") the Assignor agreed to procure the sale and the Assignee agreed to purchase or procure the purchase of inter alia the commercial real estate and chattels, details of which are set out (8) in the schedule hereto, together with the goodwill associated therewith, (together, the "Property"); and (B) The Assignor has agreed to enter into this Assignment to assign to the Assignee all its right, title and interest in and to the Property registered in its name. 5. A. por lo tanto B. en vista de C. considerando D. conviniendo The correct answer to question 5 is option C because the word "considerando" is the best rendering of "whereas." 6. A. de fecha pareja con aquí B. de la misma fecha que el presente Convenio C. con la fecha antedicha en este Convenio D. con la fecha igual que éste The correct answer to question 6 is option B because the phrase "de la misma fecha que el presente Convenio" is the best rendering of "of even date herewith" in this context. 33 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 7. A. previamente dichos B. en su conjunto C. que suscriben D. antes mencionadas The correct answer to question 7 is option D because the phrase "antes mencionadas" is the best rendering of "aforementioned" in this context. 8. A. cuyos detalles se listan B. detalles de los cuales se aparecen C. donde se establecen detalles de ellos D. detalles que son especificados The correct answer to question 8 is option A because the phrase "cuyos detalles se listan" is the best rendering of "details of which are set out" in this context. 34 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK PART 4 THE ORAL EXAMINATION 4.1 Description of the Oral Examination Only those individuals who have previously passed the Phase One Written Examination are eligible to take the Phase Two Oral Examination. The FCICE Oral Examination is a performance test that lasts approximately 45 minutes. The purpose of the federal certification program is to determine whether a person seeking certification is minimally competent for immediate work in the federal courts. Consistent with this purpose, the Oral Examination assesses functional proficiency during actual task performances required for court interpretation6. Functional proficiency means that the interpreter can accurately conserve the meaning of a source language when rendering it into a target language, without embellishments, without omissions, and without altering the style or "register" of speech. The interpreter must be able to do this while keeping up with the routine pace of court proceedings. The tasks required of interpreters in court include interpreting in the simultaneous and consecutive modes and sight translations of documents. The criterion for minimal competency was determined by the original architects of the examination to be accuracy at the 80 percent level in a testing situation. Therefore, the passing score on the examination is 80 percent as measured by preselected words or phrases that are embedded in the examination text for use as objective scoring units. The Oral Examination consists of five parts that represent activities interpreters are required to do in court, namely: interpreting in the consecutive mode, interpreting in two contexts in the simultaneous mode, and sight translation of documents (English to Spanish and Spanish to English). The activity of simultaneous interpretation is performed in two contexts: the context of extended monologue speech and the context of witness examination, which involves relatively short exchanges between two speakers. All test parts are simulations of what interpreters do in court. The five parts of the examination include: Sight translation: English to Spanish Sight translation: Spanish to English Simultaneous interpretation into Spanish – monologue speech Consecutive interpretation: Spanish to English; English to Spanish Simultaneous interpretation into Spanish – witness testimony (question and answer) 6 Arjona, Etilvia. 1985. "The Court Interpreters Certification Test Design." In Lucía Elías-Olivares, et al., eds. Spanish Language Use and Public Life in the United States. New York: Mouton Publishers. 185. 35 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 4.2 Development of the Oral Examination The Oral Examination was written by expert interpreters with an extensive background in preparing and rating interpreter examinations for federal and state court systems. The test writers were advised and assisted by a team of language professionals serving as an examination development advisory committee whose areas of expertise include court interpreting, linguistics, language testing, and language teaching. The qualifications of test writers included the following, in approximate priority order: • practicing interpreter with federal certification; • prior test writing experience; • advanced degree in language; • experience as a test rater for FCICE or analogous state tests; and • experience as an interpreter trainer. Members of the original examination development advisory committee reviewed and commented on examination design, considered and suggested policy regarding examination design and implementation, reviewed and commented on test content, and assisted in the collection of source texts for examination materials, evaluation of source text appropriateness, and in the identification of seminal Oral Examination raters. Selection of base documents around which the test is constructed was the first substantive activity in test development. Base documents were chosen from among a large corpus of federal court transcripts stored in digital form. Source documents were edited to bring the document to the length (number of words) required by the structural specifications. A second phase of editing took place as scoring units were selected and other fine-tuning was done to bring the text script into compliance with the structural specifications for the examination (for example, overall length, length of utterances in consecutive, and types and distribution of scoring units in each test part). After a complete draft was created for a test part, test writers prepared examples of possible acceptable and unacceptable renderings of each scoring unit. Every unit has at least one initial example of an acceptable rendering. Most scoring units also had at least one example of an unacceptable rendering. During field testing of each examination form and during pretest training of raters, additional examples of acceptable and unacceptable renderings were noted and compiled. Field testing also revealed deficiencies in scoring units, and these units were replaced as a result. Deficiencies might have included an unclear meaning of a word in the source text material, and too many or too few words included in the designated unit. After the test drafts were written, they were widely distributed for review. There were three types of review: 1) a review by federal district court judges and lawyers that focused on the substantive appropriateness of texts and scoring units (content validity); 2) a linguistic review by professional interpreters and linguists familiar with varieties of Spanish usage and the specific linguistic challenges of Spanish-English interpreting; and 3) consideration of the cultural appropriateness of texts. A major purpose of the review was to ensure that native speakers of both English and Spanish from many different parts of the country and different native origins 36 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK agreed that the examination does not include words or phrases in either language that are arcane or used in a way that is unique to a particular region or country. The standard was: if all the reviewers were familiar with the meaning of the word or phrase in context as it appeared in the test text, then the unit was fairly and validly included in the examination. 4.3 Examination validity, reliability, and field testing As is true for the Written Examination described in Part 3, examination specifications also guide the development of the Oral Examination. The specifications ensure that all versions of the examination are valid, reliable, and similar to each other in structure and content. The meanings of test validity and reliability have been previously explained in 3.3 Development of the Written Examination and are not repeated here. Validity of the Oral Examination is achieved by ensuring that the tasks candidates perform in the test match the tasks that interpreters must perform on the job, as described above in 4.1 Description of the Oral Examination. Validity also requires the test content to be appropriate. Appropriateness of texts used in the examination is achieved in two ways. First, source material is based on actual court transcripts from federal courts or written documents presented in federal court. Second, the test texts derived from these transcripts are reviewed by experienced professionals (federal judges, lawyers, and interpreters), who have consistently found them to be representative of the language typically encountered in federal court. The reliability of the examination is ensured through a combination of qualitative and quantitative measures. Qualitative measures include standardized approaches to test writing and selection of the scoring units used for test rating, standardized guides for rating the scoring units, and intensive training of the raters who apply the guides. Especially important to reliability in scoring is the use of multiple raters; the opinions of three federally certified interpreters who have received training as oral raters for the FCICE oral examination must converge in determining when interpretations of scoring units are correct or incorrect. Quantitative measures include the collection and analysis of item-level rating data and the application of standard statistical techniques for test evaluation, including multiple measures of examination reliability, overall internal validity, and the correlation of test part scores to overall test scores. Field testing is used prior to finalizing a new examination to verify that the procedural techniques used to ensure validity and reliability worked as intended. There is more than one technique for field testing an oral examination. One technique includes administering the completed examinations to a group of candidates who are as similar in composition as possible to the individuals who are expected to take the test routinely. After the tests are administered, statistical and qualitative evaluations are completed to determine that the test content – especially the scoring units and scoring guides – are working as intended. If necessary, adjustments may then be made prior to finalizing the test for routine administration. 4.4 Administering and scoring the Oral Examination The Oral Examination is administered to candidates on an individual basis in testing rooms where the candidate and a proctor are present. The proctor administers the examination to one 37 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK candidate at a time. Everything said in the testing room is recorded. This means that the candidate's performance is preserved for later scoring by a rating team. At a later date, a team of three expert interpreter/raters will evaluate the candidate's performance. Each rater is a Federally Certified Court Interpreter who has completed intensive training as an oral rater for the FCICE. All raters are trained as a group immediately prior to serving as test raters. The Oral Examination is scored objectively using 220 pre-selected words and phrases that appear in the text and which are accompanied by documentation of examples of correct and incorrect interpreted renderings as a guide for the raters. These are called "scoring units" or "keywords." The test raters listen to the candidate's recorded performance to verify what was said if any question arises. When the interpretation is into Spanish, the interpreters/raters consider correct any rendering that would be acceptable in any variety of Spanish where the word or expression is known to the raters as accepted usage and when it is found in a standard, reputable resource, providing that it is also at the appropriate register. The criterion for passing the examination requires the candidate to render 80 percent of the scoring units correctly. As a matter of procedure, a random ten percent of the tests, including performances that are scored below but very close to passing, are rerated by an independent rating team. As a supplement to the objective scoring procedure, raters also complete a structured holistic evaluation. This holistic evaluation assesses the strengths and weaknesses of the candidate's performance that day with respect to qualities that do not compute directly into the objective score, such as language skills. In rare cases, the holistic evaluation may also promote a candidate with an objective score that is below but very near the pass point into the "pass" category. The holistic evaluation has rarely been used to lower a candidate's score or to demote a candidate from pass to fail status. 4.5 Discussion of the individual sections of the Oral Examination Sight translation section (two parts) Sight translation: English to Spanish This part of the test requires the candidate to read an English document of approximately 230 words and interpret it aloud in Spanish. This part of the test represents 10 percent of the test weight (22 scorable units), and the candidate is allowed 5 minutes to complete the task. Documents used for this part of the examination are typically based on police reports, presentence investigation reports, or affidavits of witnesses. These reports include a wide range of language and generally involve factual descriptions of events or personalities. Sight translation: Spanish to English The Spanish to English sight translation is of the same length and weight as the English to Spanish sight translation. Documents used for this part of the examination are typically based on formal legal documents that are written in fairly high register (formal) Spanish. Examples would include affidavits taken before a notary, letters written to judges by educated individuals, or excerpts from legal documents. 38 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Simultaneous interpretation section – monologue speech This section of the examination requires the candidate to listen to and simultaneously interpret a recorded speech monologue by a lawyer. The candidate wears a set of headphones to listen to the recording and speaks aloud so that her or his performance can be recorded on a separate recording machine. The speech is entirely in English, and the interpreter interprets into Spanish as would be required to assist a Spanish speaking defendant during a trial. The speech represents either an opening or closing argument to a jury and is approximately 840 words in length. The recording is made at an average of 120 wpm and takes about 7 minutes. Texts in this section are typical of discourse delivered to jurors who are average speakers of English. Language register will vary between higher and lower registers as the lawyer covers matters of law and fact in combinations of formal and casual persuasive speech patterns. Once this section of the test begins, the proctor may not stop the recording. If you ask to have the recording stopped, everything from that point forward in this section will be counted as incorrect. Consecutive interpretation section This section of the examination is administered as a role-play of the questioning of a witness by a lawyer. It is about 875-925 words in length, and the candidate is allowed 18 minutes to complete this section of the test. Candidates may take notes. The consecutive script is prerecorded on a compact disk and the test administrator(s) plays one segment at a time on a CD player, allowing the candidate to interpret from English into Spanish or from Spanish into English, as appropriate. The script is recorded at a normal, conversational pace that would be typical during a witness' testimony. Later, during evaluation, the interpreters/raters will evaluate your ability to interpret all the details of the questions and the testimony accurately while maintaining the register of the original. Source texts for this section of the examination are transcripts from direct or cross-examination of a witness during actual trials where the testimony is given by a Spanish speaking person. Texts in this portion of the examination always include examples of lower register speech, including profanity and idiomatic usage. Candidates are allowed to ask the proctor for up to two repetitions during the consecutive section. Simultaneous interpretation section – witness testimony (Q&A) This section of the examination again requires the candidate to listen to recorded speech using a headphone set. For this section of the test, however, the source texts are in question-and-answer form, taken from transcripts of testimony by English-speaking witnesses. The text length is about 600 words at a varying speed of delivery that approximates normal courtroom speech, up to 160 wpm and takes about 5 minutes. Often these source texts will include evidence presented by law enforcement officers or technical experts. Vocabulary in these texts will include a greater amount of specialized terminology than in the consecutive interpreting task, but the texts do not include highly unusual or technical vocabulary that would be unfamiliar to educated native speakers of English. Once this section of the test begins, the proctor may not stop the recording. If you ask to have the recording stopped, everything from that point forward in this section will be counted as incorrect. 39 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 4.6 More on scoring units Scoring units are particular words and phrases that are selected because they represent various features of language that interpreters encounter in their work and must render accurately and completely without altering any of the meaning or style of speech. The raters determine as a group whether each of the scoring units is interpreted correctly or incorrectly. Scoring units are classified into three general categories and nine specific types. Grammar and usage A. Grammar/verbs Features of grammar, especially verbs, that should be handled appropriately by the sophisticated user of the two languages. B. False cognates/interference/literalism Terms or phrases that should be interpreted correctly by a qualified interpreter despite interference by one language on the other (e.g., false cognates, awkward phrasing, or terms or phrases susceptible to literal renditions resulting in loss of precise meaning). General lexical range C. General vocabulary Vocabulary of general usage, including that of more and less well educated speakers, and any general lexical item or set of items not easily classified elsewhere among the scoring units. D. Legal terms and phrases Any word or phrase of a legal or technical nature, or which is not common in everyday speech but is commonly used in legal settings. E. Idioms/sayings Sets of words with a meaning that as a whole is different from the meaning of the individual words; famous sayings or quotes from literature or history. Conservation F. Register and slang/colloquialisms Words and phases of unquestionably high or low register that can be preserved in that register in the target language by a qualified interpreter (e.g., curses, profanity, taboo words). G. Numbers/names Any number (e.g., street address, weight of person or object, measurements such as distance) or name (e.g., person, court, street, town). H. Modifiers/intensifiers/emphases/interjections 40 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Adjectives and adverbs that increase or modify intensity or provide emphasis or precision to a description (e.g. adverbs that increase the intensity of adjectives, such as "absolutely," "completely," or "very"). May include interjections (e.g. wow, yuk, oops, etc.). I. Embeddings/positions Words or phrases that would not be omitted by a qualified interpreter due to position (e.g., at the beginning or in the middle of a long sentence; the second in a string of adjectives or adverbs) or function (e.g., tag questions). 4.7 Suggestions on how to prepare for the Oral Examination The FCICE Oral Examination requires candidates to demonstrate their interpreting skills. Because these skills need to be developed gradually and improved over time, it is not possible to prepare for the test at the last minute. Reading widely and developing an extensive vocabulary in both English and Spanish must have been done already if the candidate has passed the prerequisite Written Examination. Preparing for the Oral Examination should include an hour or two practicing interpreting skills every day. Candidates should continue or even intensify these practices in the weeks or months before taking the Oral Examination. To make an initial assessment of readiness to take the Oral Examination, it is suggested that candidates refer to Part 5 of this Handbook, entitled Self-Assessment of Readiness to Take the FCICE. A high score on both 5.2 and 5.3 means that a person may be ready to take the Practice Oral Examination Test found in Part 8 of this handbook. Otherwise, the candidate should work to improve skills before taking the Practice Test or the Oral Examination. It is a good idea to practice sight translations (English to Spanish and Spanish to English) with a timer so that the candidate learns how long five minutes is and what can be accomplished in that time period. 4.8 Hints for the days before the Oral Examination • You are unlikely to gain anything by study or practice in the days just prior to examination day. You will probably benefit more by relaxing and building confidence. • Before leaving home, double check to make sure you have identification with you and that you know where to go. • Leave dictionaries and reference materials at home. Leave your cell phone, beeper, PDA, and other electronic devices at home or in the car. These items will not be permitted in the testing room, and test staff will not be responsible for their security while you are taking the examination. Before the test, you will be asked if you have a cell phone or any other electronic devices, and if you do, they will be placed in a zip lock bag and held by the test proctors until the test has concluded. After the test the items will be returned to you. You may be disqualified from taking a federal examination in the future if you are found to have any electronic devices on your person while taking a test. • Anyone found to have access to equipment or material that could be used to assist in taking the examination or that could be used to record or transmit any portion of an 41 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK examination will be permanently disqualified from taking any test in the Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination program. • Everything you need to take the test will be provided, including pens, pencils, and note paper. • Water bottles will not be allowed into the testing room since water will be provided during the exam. • Bring only a paper print-out of your Admission Letter, identification documents, keys, and wallet or small purse to the testing site. Remember that official photo identification will be required at check-in time, and that only the following will be accepted (current or issued within the last 5 years): o Driver's license or State DMV I.D. card o U.S. passport or passport issued by a foreign government o U.S. Military I.D. card • Get a good night's sleep before the examination. Go to bed early. Staying up late may leave you too tired to do your best work during the examination. Relax. Go to a movie, watch television, or read a book to take your mind off the exam. 4.9 Procedures for the day of the Oral Examination On the day of the examination: Before the test • Eat and drink something before the test. You will not be allowed to bring food or drink into the test center, although water will be provided to you during the test. • Arrive early. Leave nothing to chance in regard to the test appointment time! Please plan to arrive at the test waiting area at least twenty minutes early. Allow time to find the facility. Locate the facility in advance if you do not know exactly where it is. If the facility is a hotel or large courthouse, also allow time to find the specific room where the testing will take place. If you drive to the site must make sure to park where youdo not have to worry about getting a ticket. • Check the parking facilities, especially if you require a parking space reserved for the handicapped. All facilities are required to provide handicap access and parking, but some facilities provide more spaces than others. If it appears that there are few available parking spaces, check with the facility to see if a parking permit can be provided or if a space can be reserved for you. • Bring your Admission Letter with you to the test site. 42 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK • Remember that you will be admitted to the testing room only if you have an acceptable form of government-issued picture identification. • Use the restroom before the exam begins. Stopping the exam will interrupt your pace, interfere with your concentration, and disrupt the testing schedule. • There will be a waiting area clearly marked with signs somewhere in the facility. If the facility is a hotel, look for information on the hotel's "events" bulletin board. Otherwise, signs will be posted at the appropriate entrance of a public facility. The examination waiting area will be indicated under the title "Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination" or "FCICE." The waiting area may be in a hallway and may not have many chairs or extra room; therefore, friends and spouses should not wait with you in the waiting area. • A proctor will register you, checking your Admission Letter and official identification, and providing you with the policy statement on test security and asking you to sign an oath of confidentiality. During the test • The examination will take approximately 45 minutes. You should expect to be at the test center for a minimum of one hour to complete pre-test and post-test tasks, but allow up to two hours in case there are unforeseen delays. • Visitors are not permitted in the testing room, except for official observers. 4.10 The examination itself – what you can expect The Oral Examination lasts about 45 minutes. All portions of the examination are timed to ensure fairness. When you enter the examining room, you will see a conference table, equipped with a tape or digital recorder to record your performance and a laptop computer or compact disk player that will play the consecutive and simultaneous sections of the examination that you will interpret. The proctor will introduce him/herself and show you where to place your personal belongings. The proctor will indicate where you are to sit. The proctor will begin recording the session as soon as you are seated, and will ask you to identify yourself for the recording. You will identify yourself by stating the identification number found on your Admission Letter. The next step is to give you instructions on taking the exam. Then the actual examination will begin. Sight translation Before you begin, the instructions for the sight translation will be read to you. When the instructions are over, you will be given the first text, a one-page, double-spaced document for translation from English to Spanish. It will be a report or affidavit containing colloquial language and perhaps some justice system jargon. The purpose of this text is to determine whether you have a good command of language typically found in police reports, pre-sentence investigative reports, or witness affidavits, and to see if you are able to maintain the register, or 43 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK language level, of the original in your interpreted version. You will be allowed exactly five minutes to render the translation. A timer will be set before you begin. First you should read through the text to be translated; if you have not begun your translation within a minute and a half, you will be told to begin. If you have not finished your sight translation in the allotted five minutes, you will be told to stop. Next you will be given the text for sight translation from Spanish to English. This will be a one- page, double-spaced document dealing with a law-related context. It could be an affidavit taken before a notary public, a letter written to a judge by an educated individual, or an excerpt from a legal document. The procedure for this part will be the same as for the English to Spanish sight translation: you will have five minutes altogether, and if you have not started interpreting after a minute and a half, you will be asked to start. Simultaneous interpretation – monologue This portion of the examination will take about seven minutes, with about one additional minute of introductory speech on the recording. Like the others, it begins with explicit instructions that will be read to you by the proctor. Then you will be given a set of headphones, and the recording will be played for you to interpret. The recording will begin with some introductory matter to allow you to adjust the volume and get a sense of the pace of the speech. Then you will be advised when the test itself is about to begin and after that you will begin interpreting from English to Spanish. The text will be an opening or closing statement by an attorney. The register will vary from highly formal language to colloquial usage, and you will be expected to remain true to the style and tone of the source-language message in your interpretation. The speed of this portion of the exam, 120 words per minute, is slower than speech in an actual courtroom setting. Repetitions will not be provided. Consecutive interpretation The consecutive interpretation portion may last up to 18 minutes. Again, the proctor will read you the instructions for this section, and then you will begin the consecutive portion. The consecutive portion will simulate a trial setting in which an English-speaking attorney asks questions of a Spanish-speaking witness. The proctor will play the prerecorded segments of the script. Some statements will be very long (up to 50 words in length), and you will not be allowed to interrupt the speakers. Therefore, you will be allowed to take notes. During the consecutive section of the exam, you will be allowed to ask for up to two repetitions. If you do ask for a repetition, the proctor will replay the entire question or answer, not just the segment you missed. You must interpret the entire repetition, even if you have interpreted part of the question or answer already. Extra time will not be allowed for repetitions. Simultaneous interpretation of witness testimony (Simultaneous Q&A) The consecutive section is followed by another simultaneous interpretation section, this one about six minutes long. Again, the proctor will read instructions to you before you begin 44 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK interpreting. Then you will be given the headphones, and the proctor will play the recording. There will again be an introduction before you must begin interpreting, but somewhat shorter than the introduction to the monologue. When the examination recording begins, you will hear an attorney cross-examining a witness, and all questions and answers will be in English, to be interpreted into Spanish. As with the consecutive portion, one speaker will speak at an informal level, and the other will be more formal. This section of the examination is faster than the simultaneous monologue, up to 160 words per minute and an average of 150 words per minute. Because it involves testimony, the speakers will alternate in rapid succession, and you will have to pay close attention to follow the exchange. They will most likely be dealing with technical subjects (expert witness testimony on laboratory tests, for example). Repetitions will not be provided. Conclusion of the examination The test is over when you finish the simultaneous witness testimony section. You should expect the proctor to rewind your tape briefly to check the recording and, if the recording is on a cassette tape, ask you to initial the label. Then you will collect your belongings and be escorted from the room. You will be asked to leave the waiting area and refrain from any discussions with other examinees. 4.11 Sources for practice materials Preparing for the Oral Examination involves intensive practice. Although the AO does not endorse any particular practice materials and more may be available, some practice materials for court interpreting are available through ACEBO, a private company, and from the University of Arizona Agnese Haury Institute for Court Interpretation. The Interpreter's Edge Third Edition, Interpreter's Edge Turbo Supplement, and The Interpreter's Companion are distributed by ACEBO. Interpretapes (vols. I, II, III) are available from the University of Arizona. The materials can be obtained by writing, calling, or ordering by e-mail using the information provided below. Both resources also provide detailed information about their products on their web sites. Web site addresses are also provided below. ACEBO Post Office Box 7485, Spreckels, California 93962, USA Phone: (831) 455-1507 FAX: (831) 455-1541 E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com Web site: http://www.acebo.com Agnese Haury Institute for Court Interpretation University of Arizona Modern Languages Building, Room 445 Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA Phone (520) 621-3615 FAX (520) 624-8130 45 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Web site: http://nci.arizona.edu/about_agnese_haury_institute_interpretation An Oral Examination Practice Test7 is provided as part of this handbook (Part 8). The Practice Test was developed in parallel with the actual tests and is very similar to them. Some parts are not as long as the actual tests. The Practice Test material also includes recorded examples of passing performances. Candidates who faithfully follow the Practice Test procedure will be in a good position to gauge how they might perform on an actual test, although the Practice Test is not intended to be diagnostic. 7 http://www.ncsconline.org/D_Research/fcice_exam/oralpracexam.htm 46 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK PART 5 SELF-ASSESSMENT OF READINESS TO TAKE THE FCICE 5.1 Introduction On the following pages are two sets of questions to help you assess your readiness to take the Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination: Language Proficiency questions and "Can Do" questions. Language proficiency Language proficiency is the first prerequisite to success as an interpreter. Three subsets of questions relating to speaking, listening, and reading in English and Spanish are provided to help you assess your level of language proficiency. "Can Do" Interpreter Self-Assessment If you are satisfied with the results of the Language Proficiency assessment, or if you simply want to know more about what is required for court interpreting, proceed to this list of 29 "can do" statements. 5.2 Language proficiency self-rating in English and in Spanish Following is a three-part self-rating exercise, based on the US Government language proficiency skill level descriptions, for individuals who are considering registration for the Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination (FCICE). The three parts are: A. speaking proficiency B. listening proficiency C. reading proficiency A key to help you apply your self-ratings of language proficiency readiness to take the FCICE is found at the end of the exercises. 47 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK A. Self-rating of speaking proficiency in English and Spanish Read and consider the following four descriptions of speaking proficiency. Afterwards, decide which description most accurately represents your overall speaking proficiency in English and Spanish. If your language proficiency is substantially better than one level but not consistently as good as the next higher level, select the appropriate "plus" level. Fill in the box below the appropriate number. 1.1 English – Speaking 1.2 Spanish – Speaking 2 3 4 5 2 3 4 5 2+ 3+ 4+ 2+ 3+ 4+ 2. Limited working proficiency. I can handle informal conversations successfully. I can begin, continue, and bring to completion a variety of communicative tasks. I can handle most everyday social conversation with some confidence, but not with facility, including casual conversations about current events, work, family, and autobiographical information. I can narrate and describe events occurring in the past, present, and future. I have control of everyday vocabulary sufficient to discuss general topics of a concrete nature. 2+ 3. General professional proficiency. I can participate effectively and with ease in both formal and informal conversations on abstract and professional topics as well as practical and social topics. I can discuss my particular interests and fields of competence with ease. In conversation, I can answer objections, clarify points, justify decisions, state and defend policy, or give a briefing. I show some breadth of vocabulary. I make occasional errors with low frequency and complex language, but these almost never impede communication. 3+ 4. Advanced professional proficiency. I can speak the language fluently and accurately and with a high degree of effectiveness, reliability, and precision for all representational purposes within the range of my personal and professional experience and scope of responsibilities, even when communicating in sophisticated and demanding conversations. I can communicate effectively with varied audiences, purposes, tasks, and settings. If a nonnative speaker, I may exhibit a slight foreign accent, although this never disturbs the native listener. 4+ 5. Educated native proficiency. I speak the language as well as a highly articulate, well-educated, native speaker. I can use the language with complete flexibility and intuition, so that my speech on all levels is fully accepted by, and equivalent to, a well-educated native speaker in all of its features, including breadth of vocabulary, colloquialisms, and pertinent cultural references. My pronunciation is consistent with that of an educated native speaker of a standard dialect of the language. 48 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK B. Self-rating of listening proficiency in English and Spanish Read and consider the following four descriptions of listening proficiency. Afterwards, decide which description most accurately represents your overall listening proficiency in English and Spanish. If your language proficiency is substantially better than one level but not consistently as good as the next higher level, select the appropriate "plus" level. 2.1 English – Listening 2.2 Spanish – Listening 2 3 4 5 2 3 4 5 2+ 3+ 4+ 2+ 3+ 4+ 2. Limited working proficiency. I can understand face-to-face speech in standard pronunciation spoken at a normal pace, with some repetition and rewording even when spoken by a native speaker who is not used to speaking to people with limited proficiency in this language. I can understand speech dealing with everyday topics, common personal and family news, well-known current events, and routine work matters. I can understand descriptions of different places and narrations about past, current, and future events. I can follow the essential points of the average discussion on work-related topics in my field. I can understand the facts, such as reported in news broadcasts, but I do not grasp inferred meanings or implications expressed through more complex language. 2+ 3. General professional proficiency. I can understand the essentials of all speech in standard pronunciation, including discussions within my field of interest or specialization. I can follow accurately the essentials of conversations between educated native speakers of the language, reasonably clear telephone calls, radio broadcasts, news stories, oral reports, some oral technical reports, and public presentations on non-technical subjects. I can infer meanings that are not directly stated. I have trouble understanding native speakers if they speak very quickly or use dialect or slang. 3+ 4. Advanced professional proficiency. I can understand all forms and styles of speech pertinent to my social and professional needs. This includes speech involving extensive and precise vocabulary, subtleties and nuances in standard dialects of the language, and technical discussion on professional topics within the range of my knowledge. I can understand language tailored to different audiences and purposes, including persuasion, representation, counseling, and negotiating. I can readily infer meanings and implications. I can easily understand all social conversations, radio broadcasts, and phone calls. I may experience some difficulty understanding speech heard under unfavorable conditions, such as through a poor quality loudspeaker or radio or in a noisy room. 4+ 5. Educated native proficiency. I can fully understand educated and academic speech, abstract and professional discussions, regional dialects, highly colloquial speech, jokes and puns, and speech in noisy places or heard under unfavorable acoustic conditions. My comprehension of the language is fully equivalent to that of a well-educated native-speaker. 49 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK C. Self-rating of reading proficiency in English and Spanish Read and consider the following four descriptions of language proficiency. Afterwards, decide which description most accurately represents your overall reading proficiency in English and Spanish. If your language proficiency is substantially better than one level but not consistently as good as the next higher level, select the appropriate "plus" level. 3.1 English – Reading 3.2 Spanish – Reading 2 3 4 5 2 3 4 5 2+ 3+ 4+ 2+ 3+ 4+ 2. Limited working proficiency. I can read simple written material in print on subjects I am familiar with. I am able to read straightforward, familiar, and factual material with only some misunderstandings. I can locate the main ideas and details in material written for the general public. I can read uncomplicated prose on familiar subjects. I can generally comprehend most news articles involving description or narration of current events, travel, food, and music. I can also comprehend simple biographies, social notices, personal correspondence, routine business letters, and simple technical material written for the general public. 2+ 3. General professional proficiency. I can read a variety of materials on unfamiliar subjects with normal speed and almost complete comprehension. I can fully understand news stories or international news items in magazines, routine correspondence, editorials, and general reports. I can understand technical reports and other materials in my field of specialization even when they include hypothesis, argumentation, and supported opinions. I can read and comprehend literature, including short stories, novels, and plays. I can usually read between the lines, if necessary. I rarely have to reread general vocabulary; however, I may have some difficulty with unusually complex structures or low frequency idioms. 3+ 4. Advanced professional proficiency. I can read nearly all styles and forms of the language pertinent to academic and professional needs fluently and accurately. I can readily follow unpredictable turns of thought and author intent in such materials as sophisticated editorials, specialized journal articles, professional documents, and complex literary texts, as well as any subject directed to the nonspecialized reader. I can also read legal documents and legal texts written for the general reader and documents from earlier periods containing archaic forms of language. 4+ 5. Educated native proficiency. I can fully understand extremely difficult and abstract prose, including general legal and technical material, as well as contemporary and classical literature. I can read classical or archaic forms of writing as well as a well-educated native. I can read a wide variety of handwritten documents. My speed and comprehension are equal to that of a well-educated native reader. 50 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Interpreting your self-ratings. Speaking. Federal court interpreters must have a broad and precise vocabulary, excellent grammar, pronunciation that is always easily intelligible, fluency, and naturalness of expression in both languages. Language experts generally agree that FCCIs are usually a 4+ in one language and 5 in the other. Many are a 5 in both. Some federal court interpreters may be only a 4 in one language if they have excellent interpreting skills and are always intelligible. If your speaking skills are not at least a 4 in both languages, you may wish to improve your speaking skills before taking the FCICE. Listening. The listening skills of a typical FCCI are at the same high level as the speaking skills. That is, one must be at least a 4 in both languages, and preferably higher. In addition, one must have the ability to retain what one hears, decode it, and then encode it rapidly in the other language. Reading. FCCIs are highly literate in both languages although they may be somewhat more literate in one than the other. Language experts generally agree that the typical profile is probably a 4 in one language and a 5 in the other. One needs to be at least a 3+ in both languages in order to comprehend the kinds of documents that the court interpreter may have to translate orally to a defendant or to the court. 51 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 5.3 "Can Do" Interpreter Self-Assessment An extensive list of "Can Do" statements follows. Read each statement and circle the answer that most accurately describes your current ability or skill. Although the FCICE examination is specific to court interpreting, the questions related to interpreting skills are intended to be general in nature. You should answer those questions about interpreting skill based on your own interpreting experience. If you have no experience or other basis on which to make a self-assessment of the activity or skill described in the question, do not circle any answer and go on to the next question. A key to help you apply your self-ratings of the Can Do assessment of readiness to take the FCICE is found at the end of the exercises. 1. When speaking a standard variety of Spanish, I can use correct pronunciation and intonation without any significant effort. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 2. I am able to understand standard varieties of Spanish usage from any country in the Spanish- speaking world. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 3. When listening to nonstandard varieties of Spanish, I can comprehend speakers without any significant extra effort. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 4. When engaged in conversations with native speakers, I am able to speak Spanish fluently and can incorporate regional colloquialisms and slang expressions. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 52 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 5. I am able to render precise, accurate interpretations from Spanish into English without omissions or additions. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 6. When interpreting from Spanish into English, I am able to maintain the speaker's register (formal versus informal language) in terms of level and complexity of vocabulary and sentence construction. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 7. I can render interpretations from Spanish into English promptly without hesitation. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 8. I am able to read and understand articles of general interest written in standard Spanish. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 9. I am able to read and understand technical material written in Spanish such as legal documents, probation or social services reports, medical reports, etc. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 10. I can read and understand correspondence in Spanish that may be written in an archaic or semi-literate manner. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 53 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 11. I can read any Spanish document out loud in English promptly, precisely, and accurately without hesitation, omissions or additions. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 12. When listening to varieties of spoken English other than standard American English, I can comprehend speakers without any significant extra effort. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 13. When watching the nightly news on English language television, I can simultaneously render the newscaster's speech into Spanish without falling behind. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 14. I am able to render precise, accurate interpretations from English into Spanish without omissions or additions. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 15. When interpreting from English into Spanish, I am able to maintain the speaker's register (formal vs. informal language) in terms of level and complexity of vocabulary and sentence construction. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 54 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 16. I can render interpretations from English into Spanish promptly without hesitation. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 17. When engaged in conversation, I can speak standard American English with correct pronunciation and intonation. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 18. When engaged in conversation, I am able to speak English fluently and can incorporate regional colloquialisms, slang terms, and slang expressions. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 19. I am able to read and understand technical material written in English such as legal documents, probation or social services reports, medical reports, etc. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 20. I can read any English document out loud in Spanish promptly, precisely, and accurately without hesitations, omissions, or additions. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 21. I am able to interpret consecutively in both directions what the speaker is saying. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 55 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 22. I am able to interpret every oral utterance, even those embarrassing to me or other court participants, in either direction. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 23. When going in either direction and when interpreting consecutively or simultaneously, I am able to monitor my own interpretations and correct my own mistakes. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 24. I am able to research the meaning of specific words and terms efficiently and effectively. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 25. When going in either direction and when interpreting consecutively or simultaneously, I am able to interpret effectively under pressure of time constraints, adversarial settings, and in emotionally charged circumstances. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 26. When interpreting consecutively in either direction, I am able to comprehend and retain conversation or testimony as long as necessary in order to render an accurate interpretation. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 56 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 27. If someone reads a passage to me that is descriptive (what something looks like or something that happened), I can remember and repeat back what I heard word-for-word even if the passage is as many as 30-40 words long. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 28. I speak clearly and can adjust the loudness of my speech so that I am audible to the intended audience in both intimate and public interpreting settings. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 29. I am able to efficiently take notes when interpreting consecutively while preserving the natural flow of question and answer. A. always B. most of the time C. frequently D. rarely or never 57 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK KEY If you can answer "A" or "B" to questions 1 to 29, you may be ready to take the FCICE Examination. If you skipped or answered "C" or "D" on more than a few questions, then you may want to gain additional experience as a court interpreter before taking the examination, or you may want to pursue additional formal study or immersion training in English or Spanish. 58 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK PART 6 WHO IS INVOLVED IN THE DEVELOPMENT AND ADMINISTRATION OF THE FCICE? 6.1 Who is involved in the development and administration of the FCICE? The FCICE for Spanish-English interpreters is administered under contract from the Administrative Office of the United States Courts by the National Center for State Courts, working with its collaborating partner, Second Language Testing, Inc., Rockville, Maryland.8 The National Center for State Courts (NCSC) is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to the improvement of justice. It was founded in 1971 at the urging of Chief Justice Warren E. Burger. NCSC accomplishes its mission by providing leadership and service to courts in the United States and internationally. Programs related to language interpreting are just a few among many areas of work conducted by the NCSC. The NCSC also provides research services, direct consulting, technical assistance, and educational programs in language interpreting. In addition to the FCICE, another noteworthy NCSC program in this area is the administration of the Consortium for Language Access in the Courts to which more than half of the nation's state courts subscribe. However, the FCICE and the Consortium programs are totally separate and are separately administered. For more information about NCSC, see www.ncsconline.org. Second Language Testing, Inc. (SLTI), is a unique company whose mission is to provide test development, translation/adaptation, and other related services in the areas of second language proficiency testing and the testing of nonnative English speakers. Its president, Charles W. Stansfield, Ph.D., was formerly the Director of Foreign Language Education and Testing Division, Center for Applied Linguistics in Washington, D.C., and the Associate Director, Language Programs, Educational Testing Service, Princeton, New Jersey. For more information about SLTI, see: www.2lti.com. 6.2 Consulting experts FCICE Program Officials of the United States Courts Many dedicated professionals who strive to promote excellence in the court interpreting profession contributed to the development of the Spanish/English Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination (FCICE) Program. Under the leadership of Director James C. Duff, Deputy Director Jill C. Sayenga, and Assistant Director Noel J. Augustyn, of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts (AO), staff of the District Court Administration Division serve as stewards for the program. These include Robert Lowney, Chief of the Division, William M. Moran, Deputy Chief of the Division, and Carolyn J. Kinney, Ph.D., Court Interpreter Program Specialist. As Contracting Officer's Technical Representative, Dr. Kinney monitors the project, coordinates efforts, and facilitates communication between the AO and its contractors. For more 8 From 2000 through 2007, the National Center for State Courts also worked with CPS Human Resource Services, Sacramento, California. 59 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK information about the Administrative Office of the United States Courts, see http://www.uscourts.gov/FederalCourts/UnderstandingtheFederalCourts/FederalCourtsInAmeric anGovernment.aspx. For information specifically about the Court Interpreting program in the federal district courts, please see http://www.uscourts.gov/FederalCourts/UnderstandingtheFederalCourts/DistrictCourts/CourtInte rpreters.aspx. Many District Court Clerks assisted with the collection of an extensive body of court transcripts from which the test writers selected and edited source texts for the examination. Their contributions were fundamental for achieving test validity. Very special thanks are owed to the United States District Court Judges and experienced federal court attorneys who took the time to review and comment on the Oral Examination drafts. Their reviews ensured examination validity and task appropriateness. • Mr. Joseph C. Laws, Jr., Federal Public Defender, San Juan, Puerto Rico • Honorable John S. Martin, Jr., U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York • Honorable Carlos Moreno, U.S. District Court, Central District of California • Honorable Federico Moreno, U.S. District Court, Southern District of Florida • Honorable Michael B. Mukasey, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York • Honorable Ricardo Urbina, U.S. District Court, District of Columbia • Mr. Joseph Virgilio, CJA Panel Attorney, Washington, District of Columbia • Honorable Kimba M. Wood, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York • Mr. Ricardo Zwaig, private attorney and former Federal Public Defender, Washington, District of Columbia Advisory Committee Advice and policy guidance for the examination specifications were provided by a distinguished advisory committee of academics and federal court staff interpreters including: Linguists • Susan Berk-Seligson, Ph.D., Associate Professor – Spanish and Applied Linguistics, University of Pittsburgh • Bethany K. Dumas, Ph.D., Associate Professor – English, University of Tennessee • Nancy Schweda-Nicholson, Ph.D., Professor of Linguistics, University of Delaware Interpreters • Elena De Jongh, Court Interpreter, Southern District of Florida • Ramon del Villar, Chief Interpreter, Houston, Texas • Kevin John DeVany, Official Court Interpreter, Northern District of Illinois • Nancy Festinger, Chief Interpreter, Southern District of New York • Joyce Y. Garcia, Staff Interpreter, Tucson, Arizona • Ana-Cecilia Rosado, Court Interpreter U.S. District Court • Lenne Rosen-Kabe, Manager of Court Interpreters, Central District of California • Teresa Salazar, Director of Interpreter Services, Washington, D.C. 60 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK The Written Examination The Written Examination was developed under the leadership of Charles W. Stansfield, working with a team of highly experienced specialists in the fields of applied linguistics and interpreting. The core Written Examination team members included, in addition to Dr. Stansfield: • Daniel J. Reed, Ph.D., Researcher and Lecturer in Applied Linguistics, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana. • Jean Turner, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Applied Linguistics, Monterey Institute of International Studies. • Ana Maria Velasco, Ph.D., Visiting Professor of Translation and Interpretation, Monterey Institute of International Studies. Other contributors to the first Written Examinations developed under contract with the NCSC who served in the roles of item writers, item reviewers, or examination reviewers include: • Ellie de la Bandera, Federally Certified Court Interpreter (FCCI) • Elena De Jongh, FCCI • Ramon del Villar, FCCI • Kevin John DeVany, FCCI • Nancy Festinger, FCCI • Joyce Garcia, FCCI • Joe Harmon, FCCI, Adjunct Professor of Translation and Interpretation, Monterey Institute for International Studies • William Hewitt, Senior Research Associate, National Center for State Courts • Renee Jourdenais, Ph.D., Professor of Applied Linguistics, Monterey Institute for International Studies • Patricia Michelsen-King, FCCI • Gregory Miller, FCCI • Mario Montenegro, FCCI • Teresa Salazar, FCCI • Susana Santangelo, FCCI, medical translator • Rachel Spache-Koch, retired professional of ELS and test developer, University of Miami • Ricardo Zwaig, Esq. Examination statistical analyses and equating for those early examinations were carried out by Bruce W. Davis, Ph.D., Deborah Ford and Lisa Kobe of CPS Human Resource Services and James Impara, Ph.D. The Oral Examination The lead writers for the first Oral Examinations developed under contract with the NCSC were Patricia Michelsen-King and Gregory Miller, federally certified interpreters with extensive experience as test writers and raters for federal and state certification examinations. William Hewitt contributed to source document selection, consulted on English language usage, and coordinated all aspects of the test development, review, field testing and rating process. Other principal contributors to test writing were federally certified interpreters Ellie de la Bandera, Denia McGuire, Myriam Sigler and Melinda Gonzalez-Hibner. 61 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Many other accomplished working interpreters with wide-ranging linguistic and cultural backgrounds contributed to those early Oral Examinations. The interpreters who served on the original Advisory Committee also reviewed and commented on drafts of the Oral Examination texts. In addition, other practicing Federally Certified Court Interpreters who served as reviewers, field test raters and interpreter/raters included: • Catherine Bahr • Donald Barnes • Rebeca Calderon • Eva Desrosiers • Laura Eastment • Corinne Edelson-Cline • Agustin de la Mora • Vivian Eriksen • Rossy Franklin • Victoria Funes • Sara Garcia-Rangel • Paula Gold • Melinda Gonzalez-Hibner • Cecilia Gutierrez • Susan T. Hamer • Catalina Maria Johnson • Scott Loos • Dennis McKenna • Ruth Monroy • Mario Montenegro • Madeline Newman-Rios • Janis Palma • Marcia Parron • Stephanie Penn • Roberto Perez-Diaz • Moira Pujols-Quall • Nancy Schweda-Nicholson • Gladys Segal • Javier Soler • Sharon Spence • David Sperling • Elizabeth Taft-Smith • Hortensia Torres-Comas • Irene Tomassini • Ariel Torrone • Miguel Valenzuela • Adriana Weisz • Glenna White • Rafaela Worrell • Antonio T. Yanez 62 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK PART 7 PRACTICE WRITTEN EXAMINATION AND KEY 7.1 Introduction to the Practice Test for the FCICE Written Examination The Practice Test that is available in downloadable PDF format and provided in this section is based on the same test specifications as the FCICE Written Examination. This Practice Test was field tested on September 15, 2001, along with other forms of the test, which are now designated as operational forms. The Practice Test is similar in difficulty, although not exactly identical, to the operational forms. The operational forms – the ones that are used in actual examinations – are reviewed on a regular basis for statistical properties, and for any changes in language, culture or the law that could affect their validity and reliability. The Practice Test is not reviewed, and has not been updated since 2001. In order to determine your readiness for the FCICE Written Exam, we suggest that you print or copy this Practice Test and then take it under timed conditions. Allow yourself 2.5 hours to take the test. 9 Since you may not use a dictionary or other reference materials while taking the official FCICE Written Examination, do not use a dictionary or other reference materials while taking the Practice Test. On each page where questions appear, circle the one answer that you believe to be the correct answer to each question. After finishing the test, compare your responses with the official key, which is found at the end of the Practice Test. In this handbook, the key is found immediately following the last item in the Practice Test. In order to score the Practice Test, compare your circled response with the official key. Next to each item, place a C if you answered the item correctly and an X if you answered it incorrectly. Then, count the number of questions with a C in Section 1 and then the number in Section 2. If you answered 75 percent correct in each section, you passed the Practice Test. A score of 75 percent is equivalent to 60 correct answers in each section. After scoring the test, go back and examine each question with an X next to it. Analyze the question. Ask yourself, what does this question test? Each item tests some aspect of grammar, type of vocabulary, reading comprehension skill, or ability to render meaning appropriately from one language to another. Write down what is being tested on the test booklet and on a separate sheet of paper. Be as specific as possible, so that you can utilize that information to identify and study similar material in preparation for the official examination. Continue likewise for all questions with an X. Examine the list of skills tested by questions that you did not answer correctly. Then, study material similar to this until you are confident that you can handle similar questions in the future. 9 Until 2008, the time limit for completing the test was two and a half hours and the test consisted of 160 items, 80 in English and 80 in Spanish. Currently, there are 200 test items and the time allotted for the operational exam is three and a quarter hours. 63 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Later on, copy or print another copy of the Practice Test and repeat the process. When you are satisfied that you are ready to take the official test, register for the exam online or by mail during the registration period. Disclaimer: While each form of the FCICE is developed from the same test specifications, you are unlikely to receive the same score on an official form as you received on the Practice Test. However, your score on an official test probably will not vary by more than 12 percent from the score you received on the Practice Test the first time you took it under the exact simulated conditions, unless your readiness to take the Written Examination has improved significantly. 64 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK English Section 65 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK PART I: Reading Comprehension Directions: Read the following text adapted from an article published in a U.S. newspaper. Answer the questions that follow, choosing the alternative (A, B, C, D) that best answers each question, according to the meaning of the text. Mark your choices on your answer sheet. More Nuclear Power Equals More Risk Despite all the talk about nuclear power as the environmentally clean response to electricity shortages and global warming, many Americans are understandably wary. The administration would do well to note the public's concerns about the combination of human fallibility and mechanical failure that can set off catastrophic accidents at nuclear plants and concerns about the link between nuclear waste and nuclear weapons. The nuclear industry's safety and security claims are often misleading. Its spokespeople still insist the Three Mile Island accident demonstrated that the core of a light water reactor is far more resistant to a meltdown than had been previously thought. They do not acknowledge that the core at the Three Mile Island plant was within hours of an uncontrolled melt with Chernobyl-like consequences when a shift supervisor finally figured out that thousands of gallons of cooling water had poured undetected from a valve that was stuck open. Though the nuclear industry claims it is being crippled by overregulation, its powerful friends on Capitol Hill have threatened budget cuts to make the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (N.R.C.) compliant. The N.R.C. has begun a process of granting life extension to America's 104 power reactors, for example, despite a rash of forced shutdowns due to equipment failures caused by aging. And the agency has decided not to take enforcement action against weak security at nuclear plants: guards at half the nation's nuclear power plants have failed to repel mock attackers in N.R.C.-supervised exercises that test the protection of reactor safety systems against sabotage. A push for nuclear power is not the way to meet America's urgent energy needs. New plants cannot be brought on line quickly enough to offset present electricity shortages, which many experts believe are caused primarily by limited capacity for transmission, not production problems. Nor can using nuclear plants make a big dent in global warming. Two-thirds of the emissions of carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas, are from transportation or other sources not related to power generation. Worldwide, it would take 3,000 nuclear plants to replace all coal plants, yet that increase would reduce carbon emissions by only 20 percent. A rapid expansion of nuclear power would compound the existing dangers of nuclear weapons proliferation. Iran, for example, has pledged to put the reactors it will build under international inspection, but is still suspected of using civilian nuclear power as a cover for a nascent nuclear weapons program. Is it reasonable to assume that millions of kilograms of plutonium, separated from reactor wastes, can be kept secure from terrorists and radical states looking to make an atomic bomb? This is the ultimate question requiring an answer before nuclear power is looked to as the solution to climate and energy worries. 66 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Energy efficiency measures, like using the best available existing technology for air conditioning, lighting and electric motors, could offset the need to build any new nuclear plants. Renewable energy sources and other alternative energy systems could provide new, clean ways to generate power. There are better alternatives to a reliance on nuclear power. 1. Why are the nuclear industry's security claims misleading? A. Overregulation limits the security of a plant. B. The claims fail to acknowledge the facts. C. Nuclear power cannot be adequately controlled. D. Use of nuclear power entails unknown dangers. 2. How has the N.R.C. responded to threatened cuts in its budget? A. by shutting down aging equipment B. by increasing public service announcements C. by staging mock attacks on plant security guards D. by ignoring concerns over weak security 3. What is the projected impact on global warming of an increase in nuclear power? A. Emissions of carbon dioxide would drop by 20 percent. B. Very little improvement in global climate would occur. C. Nuclear plants would make a big dent in the trend. D. Carbon emissions would be reduced by two-thirds. 4. What is the author's purpose in writing this article? A. to promote finding alternatives to building more nuclear reactors B. to close down nuclear facilities and transport all waste to safe storage C. to prevent the possible spread of acts of terrorism at nuclear sites D to increase the production of coal-burning plants instead of nuclear facilities 67 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Directions: Read the following text adapted from an article published in a U.S. newspaper. Answer the questions that follow, choosing the alternative (A, B, C, D) that best answers each question, according to the meaning of the text. Mark your choices on your answer sheet. Europeans Suing U.S. Tobacco Companies The European Commission announced that it had filed a civil lawsuit in the United States against two major U.S. tobacco companies, seeking damages for what the suit calls the companies' involvement with organized crime in smuggling cigarettes into Europe. In the suit, the executive body of the European Union accused the two tobacco companies of using money laundering, wire fraud and other activities in on-going smuggling operations. Officials at the two companies, not surprisingly, denied involvement with smugglers and raised questions about why the suit had been filed in the United States. The case is the latest sign of frustration among government officials in Europe who believe that they lose billions of dollars in tax and other revenues due to illicit sales of American cigarettes believed to involve U.S. manufacturers. The British government has opened investigations into the world's second largest tobacco company, which it suspects of illegally importing cigarettes into Britain. And officials at the European Union said several EU countries would probably file suits of their own over loss of revenue. U.S. officials have not ignored the possible involvement of the tobacco industry in illegal activities. A North Carolina court has been investigating allegations that tobacco companies knowingly sell to dealers who resell American cigarettes to European smuggling rings. In one example, the suit claims that cigarettes were sold by a company's Florida office to a South American company, which then arranged for the cigarettes to be shipped to a warehouse in Rotterdam. There, paperwork was generated to show that the cigarettes were intended for the Canary Islands but, in fact, they were shipped to Barcelona, Spain. The problem has arisen because faced with little or no growth of sales in the United States, American tobacco companies have aggressively expanded their overseas sales and marketing. But American brands are subject to taxes and import duties which make them very expensive in high tax countries – as much as $6.50 a pack in some European markets. Industry analysts say the vast discrepancy in taxes on cigarettes in Europe makes Europe an easy target for smugglers. Since the European Union has open borders, transporting cigarettes from low-tax to high-tax countries is easy. Smugglers avoid high taxes by illegally importing cigarettes into low-tax countries and moving the product. They are then able to sell the cigarettes for 20 to 30 percent less than the legal price. Experts have estimated that the countries that make up the European Union lose about $1.5 billion a year in taxes and duties because of black market cigarettes. The European Commission said it seeks injunctions to prevent further smuggling, and it also seeks financial compensation for what the suit claims has been billions of dollars in tax losses suffered by European markets. 68 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Trying to use U.S. courts to address smuggling has been attempted before. In 1999, Canada sued a major U.S. company for $1 billion in federal court, maintaining that the company conspired to smuggle tobacco products into Canada to avoid taxes. However, that case was dismissed on the grounds that American courts cannot be used to collect another country's taxes. 5. Other than denials of illegal activities, what was the response of the companies to the lawsuit filed by the European Union? A. They questioned U.S. jurisdiction regarding the suit. B. They denied producing cigarettes for export to European nations. C. They claimed that U.S. products do not threaten the European market. D. They challenged the quality of the evidence presented in the case. 6. What conditions combine to make Europe a target for smuggling activities? A. open borders and the ease with which smugglers move B. a high tax on tobacco products and a high profit from criminal activity C. differences in American and European cigarette taxation D. the countries' different tax policies and the open borders 7. What does the European Commission seek in its lawsuit? A. compensation for loss of revenues due to tax evasion B. the right to sell cigarettes in the U.S. and Canada C. compensation for the cost of controlling smuggling D. the right to sue U.S. companies for selling cigarettes in Europe 8. What is a precedent for this lawsuit? A. a federal investigation by a North Carolina court B. a Canadian suit against a U.S. company C. a British suit against the world's number two tobacco company D. a case filed in Spain against the European Union 69 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Directions: Read the following segment from U.S. Code, Title 21, Section 881 (a) (b). Answer the questions that follow, choosing the alternative (A, B, C, D) that best answers each question, according to the meaning of the text. Mark your choices on your answer sheet. Sec. 811. Authority and criteria for classification of substances (a) Rules and regulations of Attorney General; hearing The Attorney General shall apply the provisions of this subchapter to the controlled substances listed in the schedules established by section 812 of this title and to any other drug or other substance added to such schedules under this subchapter. Except as provided in subsections (d) and (e) of this section, the Attorney General may, by rule: (1) add to such a schedule or transfer between such schedules any drug or other substance if he: (A) finds that such drug or other substance has a potential for abuse, and (B) makes with respect to such drug or other substance the findings prescribed by subsection (b) of section 812 of this title for the schedule in which such drug is to be placed; or (2) remove any drug or other substance from the schedules if he finds that the drug or other substance does not meet the requirements for inclusion in any schedule. Rules of the Attorney General under this subsection shall be made on the record after opportunity for a hearing pursuant to the rulemaking procedures prescribed by subchapter II of chapter 5 of title 5. Proceedings for the issuance, amendment, or repeal of such rules may be initiated by the Attorney General (1) on his own motion, (2) at the request of the Secretary of Health and Human Services ("the Secretary"), or (3) on the petition of any interested party. (b) Evaluation of drugs and other substances The Attorney General shall, before initiating proceedings under subsection (a) of this section to control a drug or other substance or to remove a drug or other substance entirely from the schedules, and after gathering the necessary data, request from the Secretary a scientific and medical evaluation, and his recommendations, as to whether such drug or other substance should be so controlled or removed as a controlled substance. In making such evaluation and recommendations, the Secretary shall consider the factors listed in paragraphs (2), (3), and (4) of subsection (c) of this section and any scientific or medical considerations involved in paragraphs (1) and (5) of such subsection. The recommendations of the Secretary shall include recommendations with respect to the appropriate schedule, if any, under which such drug or other substance should be listed. The evaluation and the recommendations of the Secretary shall be made in writing and submitted to the Attorney General within a reasonable time. The recommendations of the Secretary to the Attorney General shall be binding on the Attorney General as to such scientific and medical matters, and if the Secretary recommends that a drug or other substance not be controlled, the Attorney General shall not control the drug or other substance. If the Attorney General determines that these facts and all other relevant data constitute substantial evidence of potential for abuse such as to warrant control or substantial evidence that the drug or other substance should be removed entirely from the schedules, he shall 70 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK initiate proceedings for control or removal, as the case may be, under subsection (a) of this section. 9. What power is granted to the Attorney General in subsection (a)? A. to evaluate drugs B. to petition concerned individuals C. to classify substances D. to rule on drug legality 10. How may an individual get a substance classified as controlled? A. by petitioning the Attorney General B. by testifying in the pertinent hearing C. by obtaining a favorable ruling D. by having it included in a schedule 11. What action must the Attorney General take to initiate the removal of a drug from a schedule? A. request a recommendation from the Secretary B. conduct a hearing on the matter C. obtain a favorable ruling D. evaluate all relevant scientific research 12. What is the purpose of subsection (b)? A. to set the time period for submission of reports requested from the Secretary B. to establish the health decisions that are binding on the Attorney General C. to recommend substance scheduling according to their potential for abuse D. to provide the basis for determining whether a substance will be controlled 71 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Directions: Read the following court form. Answer the questions that follow, choosing the alternative (A, B, C, D) that best answers each question, according to the meaning of the text. Mark your choices on your answer sheet. WAIVER OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST The United States Constitution gives every defendant the right to effective assistance of counsel. When one lawyer represents two or more defendants in a case, the lawyer may have trouble representing all of the defendants with the same fairness. This is a conflict of interest that denies the defendant the right to effective assistance of counsel. Such conflicts are always a potential problem because different defendants may have different degrees of involvement. Each defendant has the right to a lawyer who represents him/her and only him/her. This kind of conflict of interest can be dangerous to a defendant in a number of ways. A few examples are: The Government may offer to recommend a lesser sentence to one defendant if he cooperates with the government. His/her lawyer ought to advise him/her on whether or not to accept this offer. But if the lawyer advises him/her to accept the offer, it may harm the cases of the other defendants, who are also his clients. The Government may let a defendant who is not as involved as other defendants plead guilty to lesser charges than the other defendants. After the guilty plea, however, the Government may require the defendant to testify. The lawyer who represents more than one defendant might recommend that the first defendant not plead guilty to protect the other defendants that he represents; or the lawyer might recommend that the first defendant plead guilty, which might harm the cases of the other defendants. Sometimes one of the defendants represented by a lawyer will take the stand to testify on his own behalf. In order to represent the other defendants fairly the lawyer should question the defendant on the stand as completely as possible. However, he may not be able to do that because he cannot ask the defendant as a witness about anything that the defendant has told him in confidence. The best defense for a single defendant often is the argument that, while the other defendants may be guilty, he is not. A lawyer representing two or more defendants cannot effectively make such an argument. Evidence that helps one defendant might harm another defendant's case. When one lawyer represents two or more defendants, he might offer or object to evidence that could help one defendant if it harms the other defendant's case. The Court advises defendants against representation by a lawyer who also represents other defendants in the same case. The Court urges each defendant to obtain a lawyer who will represent him/her and only him/her. Each defendant has the right to a lawyer of his/her own. Each defendant can also give up that right, if he/she chooses. 72 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK I have read the above statement, and I understand it fully. I know I have a right to an attorney of my own, but I want to give up this right. I want ______________as my lawyer, even though he represents one or more of the other defendants in this case and he might have a conflict which would not be in my best interest. DONE AND ORDERED before the Court in __________, this _____ day of _____. 13. Who might sign this waiver? A. defendants with a potential conflict of interest B. defendants who will testify on their own behalf C. defendants in multiple defendant cases D. defendants who want a new attorney 14. What right is given up by this waiver? A. the right to fairness in court representation B. the right to effective assistance of counsel C. the right to plea bargain with the government D. the right to testify in one's defense at trial 15. What is the reason for including examples in this document? A. to show that various defendants should not rely on the same evidence B. to illustrate the implications of cooperating with the government C. to specify possible good arguments the defense may employ D. to illustrate potential problems in effective defense of co-defendants 16. To what conflict of interest does this document refer? A. that between an attorney and his/her defendants B. that between cooperating defendants and others C. that between an attorney and a cooperating defendant D. that between defendants and multiple witnesses 73 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK PART II: Usage Directions: For each of the following sentences, choose the alternative (A, B, C) that best replaces the underlined portion. If the original sentence is the best, mark option D (no change). 17. The fire chief used sound judgment when he denied the homeowners request for a fire permit. A. homeowners to request B. homeowner's to request C. homeowner's request D. no change 18. Gathering crucial information regarding a crime depends on let the interviewee talk under controlled conditions. A. letting the interviewee talk B. letting talk the interviewee C. let talk the interviewee D. no change 19. Projections for the next fiscal year indicate that tobacco tax revenue will decrease at a marked faster rate than in the last five years. A. markedly faster B. markedly fast C. marked more fast D. no change 20. The defendant waived his right to been tried by a jury. A. to be tried B. of being tried C. for being tried D. no change 21. Art works that have been fractured into thousands of pieces can be repaired by a computer program that sorts out which fragments belong next to others, much as like solving a digital jigsaw puzzle. A. much similar to B. much like C. some like D. no change 74 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 22. Dust particles not only create air pollution, but can damage some air pollution control devices. A. not only creates air pollution B. not only they create air pollution C. not only can they create air pollution D. no change 23. The new material is very light, and it yet is durable. A. it is yet durable B. yet it is durable C. it is durable yet D. no change 24. The criminals were harshly punished because of the heinous nature of the crime. A. punished very harsh B. hardly punished C. punishedly hardly D. no change 25. Psychological and behavioral changes associated with amphetamine dependence include tension, impaired judgement, and inability to enjoy what were previously pleasurable. A. that can be B. what was C. what can be D. no change 26. Water transferred to the air from the leaves of plants primarily through a process called transpiration. A. transferring B. is transferring C. is transferred D. no change 27. Retail sales are expected to increase next month, after the fall advertising campaign begins and stores stock up on back-to-school merchandise. A. advertisement B. add C. advertise D. no change 75 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Directions: From among the four alternatives (A, B, C, D) choose the one that best replaces the underlined portion of the sentence. 28. The suspects apparently knew that the victim was loaded. A. was carrying a weapon B. was very angry C. had many connections D. had a lot of money 29. The candidate who lost the election took it in stride. A. got very depressed B. accepted it well C. became frustrated D. blamed only himself 30. We are not sure whether the new executive will cut the mustard. A. get along with colleagues B. be a good leader C. promote the company D. make the grade 31. The employees were floored when the promotions were announced. A. pleased B. unhappy C. shocked D. excited 32. Ms. Jones is the best candidate hands down. A. available B. up to this time C. without counting votes D. without doubt 76 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Part III: Error Detection Directions: In the following sentences three segments are underlined and followed by a letter (A, B, C). One of these segments might contain an error. Choose the segment that contains the error and mark your choice on your answer sheet. If the sentence does not contain an error, mark D (No error). There may be grammatical, syntactic, or semantic errors. There is not more than one error in a sentence. 33. The lack of consistency in the analyses (A) submitted by (B) the various experts were (C) appalling. No error (D) 34. This appraisement (A) is sought for (B) the purpose of advising the heirs on (C) the market value of said property. No error (D) 35. The news regarding the stock market upturn (A) have been (B) well received by investors worldwide (C). No error (D) 36. When a defendant accepts a plea agreement, he or she (A) is (B) required to admit guilty (C). No error (D) 37. A new study raises (A) questions about whether the current procedure use to (B) define lead poisoning is stringent enough (C). No error (D) 38. During his deposition (A), the driver told a complete different (B) version of how (C) the accident had occurred. No error (D) 39. The economic recovery plan that the local government opted for (A) is quite different from (B) the one (C) recommended by the International Monetary Fund. No error (D) 40. Interest rates for (A) home mortgage loans have fallen (B) twice as more than (C) predicted by banking industry experts. No error (D) 41. A drug that (A) helps asthma sufferers breathe (B) has been recalled by their (C) manufacturer. No error (D) 42. Company executives are beginning to realize (A) that they were far too optimistical (B) about a rise in (C) the value of their stock. No error (D) 77 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Directions: The six sentences that follow form a paragraph. In each sentence three segments are underlined and followed by a letter (A, B, C). One of these segments might contain an error. Choose the segment that contains the error and mark your choice on your answer sheet. If the sentence does not contain an error, mark D (No error). There may be grammatical, syntactic, or semantic errors. There is not more than one error in a sentence. 43. Two recent reports point out (A) that low-cost or free health care is unavailable often (B) for the more than (C) 800,000 uninsured in Chicago. No error (D) 44. Researchers scrutinized (A) five of the area's major hospitals (B) to determine whether were the hospitals (C) making information about free care readily available. No error (D) 45. None (A) of the hospitals had readily available written information (B) about hospital policies regarding free care (C). No error (D) 46. Becoming ill (A) while not insured (B) can mean long waits, emergency care with no follow-up, and financially (C) ruin. No error (D) 47. The uninsured are not necessarily (A) the unemployed, whom (B) may qualify for (C) Medicaid. No error (D) 48. They (A) work service jobs that do not offer (B) insurance and do not pay enough for the workers buy (C) insurance themselves. No error (D) 78 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK PART IV: Synonyms Directions: From among the four alternatives (A, B, C, D), choose the one closest in meaning to the underlined word in the sentence. 49. Some factors are detrimental to the interrogation process. A. inappropriate B. unique C. inherent D. harmful 50. The reporter discovered an old snippet of the news coverage of the incident. A. excerpt B. film C. draft D. tape 51. Negative test results might prove nothing regarding parentage. A. adulthood B. lineage C. longevity D. infirmity 52. The man's actions have caused a great deal of havoc in the community. A. concern B. activity C. confusion D. gossip 53. Her behavior was a travesty of her profession. A. specialization B. misrepresentation C. mockery D. glorification 54. She seemed very smug regarding her success. A. self-satisfied B. snotty C. self-sufficient D. snide 79 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 55. Interrogators should not risk losing trustworthiness. A. concentration B. faithfulness C. momentum D. credibility 56. Small animals may cache seeds in a variety of locations. A. hoard B. seek C. ingest D. detect 57. The friction skin furrows of fingerprints are usually visible. A. follicles B. wrinkles C. circles D. grooves 58. The mayor was adamant about the need for wider streets in the neighborhood. A. distressed B. unyielding C. displeased D. unconcerned 59. Sulfuric acid particles contribute to the polluting smog that engulfs some cities. A. disenfranchises B. degrades C. circumvents D. envelops 60. The meteorologists studied the tornado's aftermath. A. potency B. impact C. path D. tail 80 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 61. Her brashness made her known throughout the company. A. discretion B. effectiveness C. diffidence D. heedlessness 62. Most members of the community saw Mr. Jeffers as nothing more than a crotchety old man. A. venial B. malleable C. cantankerous D. sickly 63. The implicit objective of the bill was to placate dissenting factions. A. mollify B. alienate C. prevent D. weaken 64. The ancient writings recounted the city's splendor and debauchery. A. opulence B. mysteriousness C. gastronomy D. decadence 81 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK PART V: Best Translation Directions: For each of the underlined segments in sentences that follow, choose the alternative (A, B, C, D) closest in meaning to the underlined word or phrase. In choosing your answer, consider the context of the underlined portion and what the translation of the entire sentence would be. 65. El testigo ni siquiera se inmutó cuando el juez le dirigió la palabra. A. showed no weariness at all B. did not appear remorseful C. did not even bat an eye D. was not willing to testify 66. Luego de que lo hicieran parar, el conductor se bajó del carro y caminó tambaleándose hasta la acera. A. staggered B. teetered C. swayed D. stumbled 67. Me pagan cada ocho días. A. once a week B. each eight days C. every fortnight D. every eight days 68. En su discurso, el candidato a la presidencia hizo hincapié en que su partido estaba enteramente comprometido con la superación del analfabetismo. A. entirely in agreement with B. firmly compromised in C. totally committed to D. completely compromised in 69. En el presente acuerdo se estipula, entre otras condiciones, el monto de los honorarios. A. the present B. this C. said D. the current 82 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 70. El abogado le solicitó al funcionario que expidiera el documento lo más pronto posible. A. asked the official to issue B. requested the clerk to deliver C. asked the functionary to expedite D. requested prompt issuance of 71. El derecho de asilo no podrá ser invocado contra una acción judicial realmente originada por delitos comunes o por actos opuestos a los propósitos de las Naciones Unidas. A. a legal action truly brought for misdemeanors B. a judicious action based on really common offenses C. prosecution genuinely arising from nonpolitical crimes D. proceedings initiated to address veritable felonious acts 72. Hablando en nombre de su representada, el letrado reiteró su total inocencia en cuanto a los hechos que se le imputan. A. represented B. party C. representative D. client 83 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Directions: For each of the underlined segments in the news item that follows, choose the alternative (A, B, C, D) closest in meaning to the underlined word or phrase. In choosing your answer, consider the context of the underlined portion and what the translation of the entire paragraph would be. Tres delincuentes, que se dedicaban a asaltar vehículos de transporte pesado a lo largo de la Panamericana, fueron intervenidos por agentes de la policía luego de una espectacular persecución. La captura de Roberto Solano Vidal se efectuó cerca de las 14 horas. El mencionado sujeto fue sindicado (73) como uno de los autores (74) del asalto contra Gregorio Molina Pastor, chofer de la empresa de transportes La Costa, por un monto de mercadería valorizada en (75) 250 mil nuevos soles. A raíz de (76) su captura se continuó con el seguimiento y se capturó a los otros implicados. 73. A. charged B. identified C. stopped D. arrested 74. A. perpetrators B. suspects C. participants D. authors 75. A. for B. of C. in D. at 76. A. In view of B. Relying on C. Following D. Considering 84 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Directions: For each of the underlined segments in the excerpt from the court document that follows, choose the alternative (A, B, C, D) closest in meaning to the underlined word or phrase. In choosing your answer, consider the context of the underlined portion and what the translation of the entire paragraph would be. DILIGENCIA DE INFORMACIÓN DE DERECHOS En cumplimiento de lo dispuesto (77) en el artículo 419 del Código de Enjuiciamiento Criminal se procede a poner en conocimiento del epigrafiado que ha sido detenido por un presunto (78) delito de hurto menor (79), así como los derechos que le asisten, consistentes, fundamentalmente, en: 1. – Designar Abogado y solicitar que esté presente en su declaración e intervenga en todo reconocimiento de identidad que se le efectúe. En otro caso, se le designará de oficio (80). 77. A. Pursuant to the provisions B. According to the deposition C. Complying with the dispositions D. In fulfillment of what is designated 78. A. presumed B. assumed C. alleged D. underlying 79. A. minor thievery B. petty theft C. minor stealing D. larceny 80. A. the court will appoint an attorney for him B. an official will be appointed to represent him C. he will nominate an attorney by official letter D. an attorney will be designated from the roster 85 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK [This page intentionally left blank] 86 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Sección de español 87 PARTE I: Comprensión de lectura Instrucciones: Lea el texto siguiente, adaptado de un artículo publicado en un periódico latinoamericano, y conteste las preguntas que le siguen, escogiendo la alternativa (A, B, C, D) que mejor responda a cada pregunta según el significado del texto leído. Marque la respuesta en el espacio correspondiente de la hoja de respuestas. Intimidad e Internet Son prácticas comunes en Internet el envío de e-mails o correo electrónico de punto a punto, la participación en grupos de debate o de "chateo" y la navegación por los sitios o páginas de la World Wide Web, todo lo cual sistemáticamente deja un registro digital permanente e identificable. Lo mismo sucede con la adquisición de bienes y servicios, sobre todo si se utilizan medios de pago no anónimos como las tarjetas de crédito. Vía Internet además circula gran cantidad de datos llamados "transaccionales", que son aquellos que se generan para asegurar conexiones correctas y son atribuibles a personas determinadas. Estas operaciones cotidianas involucran el procesamiento de datos personales o nominativos que pueden ser recopilados, almacenados y cruzados indebidamente o sin autorización de su titular. El problema se agrava ante la existencia de software o programas filtros capaces de buscar en la red, seleccionar y recopilar todos los datos disponibles sobre una persona específica, por ejemplo, revisando los grupos de debate en que haya participado. Tales datos, cuando se relacionan con ocupaciones, gustos, preferencias, compras realizadas, etc., de hecho ya han sido vendidos para realizar marketing directo. La protección del derecho a la intimidad o a la privacidad de las personas frente al procesamiento electrónico de información nominativa en el espacio virtual, es un tema que suele ser abordado en las Leyes de Protección de Datos, las que incorporan principios fundamentales sobre dicha materia, tales como que los antecedentes nominativos deben ser recopilados y almacenados sólo cuando resulten pertinentes para el propósito que se persigue, o que debe garantizarse a quienes navegan en el ciberespacio que la información que se obtenga sobre ellos estará destinada a fines legítimos. Frente al tema del "Anonimato en Internet", en diciembre de 1997 la Comisión Europea adoptó bajo ese nombre la Recomendación Nº3/97. El texto fue elaborado por un grupo de trabajo sobre protección de las personas en lo que respecta al tratamiento de datos nominativos, y apunta a promover la utilización de datos anónimos para evitar que se identifiquen los usuarios de Internet, de manera tal que naveguen sin temor a que la información sobre su persona luego pueda ser usada indebidamente. El tema de fondo es la pretensión del anonimato para las comunicaciones en línea, lo cual, evidentemente, debe ser conciliado con intereses superiores o de orden público. Se trata de un conflicto típico entre el derecho a la intimidad y el derecho a la información; cuando el segundo es reclamado por un Estado para cumplir con su papel promocional y asistencial (por ejemplo, saber el número de personas seropositivas para planificar políticas de salud), no cabría la posibilidad de hablar de la primacía de la privacidad. En cuanto a los datos nominativos del ciberespacio, en casos tales 88 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK como difusión de pornografía infantil, tráfico de drogas, fraudes financieros o infracciones al derecho de autor, no podría reclamarse anonimato alguno, porque se estaría posibilitando la impunidad. Lo importante es que se respete el principio de la proporcionalidad al aplicarse cualquier medida restrictiva en este campo, como lo ha indicado el Tribunal Europeo de Derechos Humanos. 81. ¿Qué consecuencia tienen los usos más comunes y corrientes de la Internet? A. el asiento de los datos nominativos de los usuarios B. la adquisición de bienes y servicios con datos personales C. el empleo de software que almacena datos personales D. la investigación ilícita de preferencias personales 82. ¿Cuál es uno de los principios fundamentales de la protección de datos nominativos? A. El anonimato de quienes operan en el ciberespacio está garantizado por ley. B. Las operaciones en la Internet se acogen a las Leyes de Protección de Datos. C. Está prohibido recopilar datos que no cumplan un fin determinado o lícito. D. Se prohíbe la venta de los datos de quienes participan en grupos de debate. 83. ¿En qué caso debe primar el derecho a la información? A. cuando el Estado lo ejerce para poder cumplir sus funciones B. cuando es necesario hacer un recuento de las personas seropositivas C. cuando se llevan a cabo campañas de marketing directo D. cuando los titulares de los datos quieren ingresar a la Internet 84. ¿Cuál es la conclusión del autor? A. No es factible que se cumpla el propósito de las Leyes de Protección de Datos. B. El derecho a la privacidad es tan importante como el derecho a la información. C. La Comisión Europea ha abierto el camino en cuanto a la conservación de datos. D. El anonimato no quedará protegido si no se implementan medidas restrictivas. 89 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Instrucciones: Lea el texto siguiente, adaptado de una noticia publicada en un periódico español, y conteste las preguntas que le siguen, escogiendo la alternativa (A, B, C, D) que mejor responda a cada pregunta según el significado del texto leído. Marque la respuesta en el espacio correspondiente de la hoja de respuestas. Un juicio que pone a prueba a la humanidad El Gobierno de Sudáfrica y las compañías farmacéuticas se han enfrentado esta semana en la Corte Suprema de Pretoria, en un juicio que deberá decidir la constitucionalidad de una ley promulgada en 1997, que permite el acceso a medicamentos esenciales a un precio más barato del ofertado por las monopolísticas compañías farmacéuticas. Como ha señalado una organización no gubernamental local que lucha para que los enfermos de SIDA puedan medicarse, el juicio de Pretoria es un símbolo para todos los países pobres, puesto que lo que en realidad se está discutiendo es si el derecho a la salud de millones de enfermos en los países del Sur debe someterse al derecho a la protección de las patentes de las compañías farmacéuticas, todas ellas afincadas en los países ricos donde la población sí tiene acceso a sus medicamentos. Cuando en 1994 se constituyó el primer Gobierno postapartheid, la situación sanitaria sudafricana era demoledora: sólo el 20% del gasto en medicinas iba al sector público, al que accedía el 80% de la población, mientras que el 80% se destinaba al sector privado, que, a su vez, cubría las necesidades del 20% de la población restante. La ley de 1997 fue una de las principales medidas tomadas por el Gobierno para facilitar el acceso a los medicamentos en un país que tiene, además, la cifra más elevada del mundo de personas seropositivas, con un total de 4,2 millones, lo que representa el 20% de la población. Dicha ley permite fabricar medicamentos genéricos contra el SIDA y abre la posibilidad de comprarlos a otros países que, como India, los venden a un precio más barato que el que imponen los laboratorios sudafricanos propietarios de las patentes, representantes todos ellos de los grandes laboratorios europeos y norteamericanos. Pero la ley nunca ha podido ponerse en práctica porque ha quedado bloqueada por la batalla jurídica que las compañías farmacéuticas empezaron en 1998. Según cifras facilitadas por organizaciones no gubernamentales internacionales, un año de medicación contra el sida cuesta en Estados Unidos y Europa entre veinte y treinta mil dólares. Esta cifra podría reducirse a 400 dólares si se utilizaran productos genéricos. Las compañías farmacéuticas amparan su batalla judicial contra el Gobierno en las nuevas reglas sobre el comercio internacional, después de la creación, en 1994, de la Organización Mundial de Comercio, y en los acuerdos sobre la propiedad intelectual que, en el caso de las patentes farmacéuticas, permiten su explotación durante veinte años antes de que se conviertan en un bien público. Aparentemente, este plazo debería servir para estimular la inversión en investigación, pero la realidad, se quejan las organizaciones no gubernamentales, es que la investigación se destina principalmente a enfermedades del mundo rico. 90 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Más de mil millones de personas entran en el siglo XXI sin haber podido aprovechar la revolución sanitaria, ha denunciado la Organización Mundial de la Salud. Este desequilibrio sanitario y humanitario puede derivar en una gran explosión política porque la gente en los países pobres sabe que existen los medicamentos que podrían ayudarles, pero saben también que no son para ellos, sino para los ricos. 85. ¿En qué reside lo simbólico del juicio que se está desarrollando en Pretoria? A. en que reafirmará el derecho de las compañías farmacéuticas a defender sus propiedad intelectual B. en que en realidad se decidirá si prima el derecho de protección de las patentes o el derecho a la salud C. en que afectará la capacidad de los propietarios de las patentes para competir en el mercado D. en que proveerá asistencia estatal a las personas seropositivas pobres para que paguen su tratamiento 86. ¿Cuál fue el propósito de la ley dictada en Sudáfrica en 1997? A. solucionar la demoledora situación sanitaria del país B. fomentar el mercado libre para los productos farmacéuticos C. procurar la fabricación de drogas genéricas contra el SIDA D. lograr la venta de medicinas esenciales a precios menores 87. ¿Qué establecen los acuerdos internacionales sobre protección de la propiedad intelectual en cuanto a las patentes farmacéuticas? A. que constituyen un bien público durante 20 años B. que están supeditadas a 20 años de investigación C. que tienen un plazo máximo de 20 años de vigencia D. que sin 20 años de investigación no son renovables 88. ¿Por qué, según el título, está a prueba la humanidad en este juicio? A. porque está en juego la compasión por la desgracia ajena B. porque todos los seres humanos están en tela de juicio C. porque se está comprobando la debilidad del hombre D. porque el mundo pobre ignora la revolución sanitaria 91 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Instrucciones: Lea el texto siguiente, que proviene de un Código Civil, y conteste las preguntas que le siguen, escogiendo la alternativa (A, B, C, D) que mejor responda a cada pregunta según el significado del texto leído. Marque la respuesta en el espacio correspondiente de la hoja de respuestas. DE LOS DELITOS Y CUASIDELITOS Art. 1. El que ha cometido un delito o cuasidelito que ha inferido daño a otro, es obligado a la indemnización; sin perjuicio de la pena que le impongan las leyes por el delito o cuasidelito. Art. 2. Puede pedir esta indemnización no sólo el que es dueño o poseedor de la cosa que ha sufrido el daño, o su heredero, sino el usufructuario o el usuario, si el daño irroga perjuicio a su derecho de usufructo o uso. Puede también pedirla en otros casos el que tiene la cosa con obligación de responder de ella, pero sólo en ausencia del dueño. Art. 3. Es obligado a la indemnización el que hizo el daño, y sus herederos. El que recibe provecho del dolo ajeno, sin ser cómplice en él, sólo es obligado hasta concurrencia de lo que valga el provecho. Art. 4. Si un delito o cuasidelito ha sido cometido por dos o más personas, cada una de ellas será solidariamente responsable de todo perjuicio procedente del mismo. Art. 5. El ebrio es responsable del daño causado por su delito o cuasidelito. Art. 6. No son capaces de delito o cuasidelito los menores de siete años ni los dementes; pero serán responsables de los daños causados por ellos las personas a cuyo cargo estén, si pudiere imputárseles negligencia. Art. 7. Toda persona es responsable no sólo de sus propias acciones, sino del hecho de aquellos que estuvieren a su cuidado. Así el padre, y a falta de éste la madre, es responsable del hecho de los hijos menores que habiten en la misma casa. Así los jefes de colegios y escuelas responden del hecho de los discípulos, mientras están bajo su cuidado; y los artesanos y empresarios del hecho de sus aprendices o dependientes, en el mismo caso. Pero cesará la obligación de esas personas si con la autoridad y el cuidado que su respectiva calidad les confiere y prescribe, no hubieren podido impedir el hecho. Art. 8. Por regla general, todo daño que pueda imputarse a malicia o negligencia de otra persona debe ser reparado por ésta. 92 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Art. 9. La apreciación del daño está sujeta a reducción, si el que lo ha sufrido se expuso a él imprudentemente. Art. 10. Las imputaciones injuriosas contra el honor o el crédito de una persona no dan derecho para demandar una indemnización pecuniaria. 89. ¿A quién se debe indemnizar cuando se infiere un daño material? A. a los herederos del dueño del bien en caso de ausencia B. a quien sea dueño o tenga derecho de uso o usufructo del bien C. solamente a quien sea propietario del bien objeto del daño D. a quien esté a cargo de cuidar de la integridad del bien 90. ¿Quiénes están eximidos de responsabilidad penal al inferir un daño? A. Quienes tengan menos de 7 años y quienes sufran de demencia. B. Quienes tengan a su cuidado los alumnos de las escuelas. C. Los padres y madres cuyos hijos no habitan en la misma casa. D. Las personas que causen daños estando bajo influencia del alcohol. 91. ¿Cuándo dejan de ser responsables quienes están a cargo de terceros que ocasionan un daño? A. cuando no actúan con malicia ni negligencia B. cuando no pueden impedir la acción que resulta en el daño C. cuando el daño no merece indemnización pecuniaria D. cuando el daño no se imputa a un delito ni cuasidelito 92. ¿Qué ocurre con un daño resultante de la imprudencia de la propia acción del afectado? A. no hay obligación de pagar indemnización B. se puede reducir el monto de la indemnización C. no se presume que haya delito o cuasidelito D. las partes comparten la responsabilidad solidariamente 93 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Instrucciones: Lea el texto siguiente, que proviene de un documento judicial, y conteste las preguntas que le siguen, escogiendo la alternativa (A, B, C, D) que mejor responda a cada pregunta según el significado del texto leído. Marque la respuesta en el espacio correspondiente de la hoja de respuestas. EN EL TRIBUNAL SUPERIOR DE PUERTO RICO SALA DE CUYAMANGA SENTENCIA En el presente caso se radicó una petición jurada de divorcio por consentimiento mutuo. Se señaló vista en sus méritos y comparecieron los peticionarios personalmente y representados legalmente. El Tribunal examinó bajo juramento a ambos peticionarios y llegó a la conclusión de que la decisión de solicitar conjuntamente la disolución del vínculo matrimonial existente entre ellos no era producto de la irreflexión ni de la coacción. Los peticionarios habían contraído matrimonio el día 12 de octubre de 1990 en San Juan, Puerto Rico, mismo durante el cual procrearon un hijo de nombre Damián. De haber analizado las pruebas desfiladas y en virtud de lo resuelto en Durán Mora v. Elizondo Castillo 102 D.P.R. 251 (1977), el Tribunal declara Con Lugar la petición de divorcio y en consecuencia decreta disuelto el vínculo matrimonial existente entre los peticionarios. En el ejercicio de su discreción y en el beneficio del hijo habido en el matrimonio que todavía es menor de edad, el Tribunal otorga su custodia y patria potestad a la madre. El padre del hijo antes nombrado tendrá derecho a compartir con el mismo cuatro semanas al año durante los meses de julio y agosto. Las vacaciones de Semana Santa se alternarán anualmente entre el susodicho peticionario y la madre del menor. El peticionario asimismo asumirá los gastos de viaje del menor y su acompañante para las vacaciones, así como de su cuidado y manutención durante las mismas. El peticionario pagará una pensión alimenticia para su hijo de diez mil cuatrocientos dólares anuales, a ser pagados en plazos bisemanales de ciento cuatro dólares. Dicha pensión deberá ser abonada a nombre de la peticionaria por depósito directo a su cuenta bancaria, con constancia al Tribunal, comenzando el 1 de abril del año en curso. No procederá la modificación de las órdenes del Tribunal sobre las anteriores pensiones alimenticias excepto en el caso de que ocurran imprevistos o cambios significativos en las circunstancias de uno de los peticionarios o cuando se desconociere información pertinente al momento de dictar la Sentencia aunque no por culpa de la parte perjudicada por tal desconocimiento. 94 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK El Tribunal aprueba el acuerdo ya suscrito por las partes, y en consecuencia incorpora sus términos a la Sentencia y lo hace formar parte de la misma, que ordena la liquidación del régimen económico que existió entre los peticionarios con arreglo a lo acordado por ellos y apercibe a éstos de su fiel cumplimiento. Dada en Cuyamanga, a 27 de marzo de 1994 por Miguel R. Botafogo, Juez Superior. 93. ¿Cómo se inició el proceso de divorcio? A. por decisión del tribunal competente B. por solicitud de ambos cónyuges C. por la comparecencia de la pareja D. porque lo peticionó la esposa 94. ¿De qué se valió el tribunal para llegar a su decisión? A. del interrogatorio al que sometió a ambos solicitantes B. del examen de la solicitud hecha por los peticionarios C. de los alegatos de los representantes de los solicitantes D. del contenido de documentos incorporados a la sentencia 95. ¿Cuál es el propósito de la sentencia? A. disolver el régimen económico de los cónyuges B. decidir los derechos de visita del padre C. disponer los términos de la custodia del menor D. decretar el divorcio de los peticionarios 96. ¿Cómo se dispuso de los bienes del matrimonio? A. mediante las órdenes dictadas por el tribunal en la sentencia B. a través de la disolución del vínculo matrimonial decretada por el juez C. de acuerdo a los informes económicos entregados por las partes D. según un acuerdo celebrado entre los cónyuges previo a la sentencia 95 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK PARTE II: Uso del idioma Instrucciones: En las oraciones siguientes, escoja la mejor alternativa (A, B, C) para reemplazar la parte subrayada. Si la versión original es la mejor, marque D (Sin cambio) en su hoja de respuestas. 97. En las últimas elecciones primarias, votó un poco menos de la mitad de los inscritos en el partido. A. votó un poco menos que la mitad B. votaron un poco menos que medio C. votaron unos pocos menos de la mitad D. sin cambio 98. En casi todos los países del mundo, la esclavitud estuvo abolida en el siglo XIX. A. fue absolvida B. quedó abolida C. se absolvió D. sin cambio 99. Acogiendo una llamada hecha por el gobierno para establecer las bases de un diálogo que permita solucionar el conflicto laboral, la empresa decidió nombrar un mediador. A. que permite B. que permitan C. permitiendo D. sin cambio 100. El acusado podrá hacer citar testigos una vez que se dé inicio a la causa. A. a pesar de B. no obstante C. con el fin de D. sin cambio 101. Según el abogado defensor, lo más pésimo para su cliente fue el testimonio del perito. A. lo pésimo B. lo más peor C. lo peor D. sin cambio 96 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 102. En la audiencia de ayer, el detenido fue negado la libertad condicional. A. el detenido se negó B. al detenido se lo negó C. al detenido se le negó D. sin cambio 103. Muchas personas no leen lo escrito en letra pequeña en los contratos de préstamo que firman y así de repente se ven atrapados en un mar de deudas. A. así, de repente, se ven atrapadas B. y así se ven de repente atrapados C. de repente, así, se ven atrapadas D. sin cambio 104. Los querellantes solicitarán al juez que él instruye a la otra parte sobre las distintas etapas procesales. A. instruya B. instruyera C. haya instruido D. sin cambio 105. Tras la reforma, el Poder Judicial ha dejado de contar con muchas de las atribuciones que se le contemplaba la constitución. A. se lo contempló en B. contempló C. contemplaba D. sin cambio 106. Desde que se ha hecho frecuente el uso de pruebas de ADN, han sido salvados muchos condenados a muerte. A. se salvaron B. quedaron a salvo C. se han salvado D. sin cambio 107. La posibilidad de otorgar perdón presidencial a los condenados por meras faltas sencillamente no existe en muchos países. A. sencillamente no existen B. no existen sencillamente C. de modo sencillo no existe D. sin cambio 97 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Instrucciones: De las cuatro alternativas (A, B, C, D), escoja la mejor para reemplazar la parte subrayada de la oración. Marque su respuesta en el espacio correspondiente de la hoja de respuestas. 108. A la semana de haber comprado el carro se dieron cuenta de que les habían pasado gato por liebre. A. hecho un buen negocio B. hecho lesos C. cobrado el cheque D. dado un disgusto 109. Cuando iba de prisa por la acera, me di un tropezón y caí de bruces. A. de cabeza B. de golpe C. sin ruido D. boca abajo 110. El acusado frunció el entrecejo con la respuesta del testigo. A. arrugó el ceño B. separó las cejas C. lagrimeó D. pestañeó 111. Me quedó de perlas el traje que me regaló. A. ceñido B. llamativo C. perfecto D. elegante 112. La situación no es para estar con el alma en un hilo. A. contundente B. angustiado C. pendiente D. abrumado 98 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK PARTE III: Identificación del error Instrucciones: En las preguntas siguientes hay una oración que tiene tres palabras o frases subrayadas. Entre éstas, identifique la que se debe cambiar para que la oración sea correcta y marque su selección en el espacio correspondiente (A, B, C) de la hoja de respuestas. Si la oración original es correcta, marque D (Sin error). Los errores pueden ser gramaticales, sintácticos o semánticos, y sólo hay uno en cada oración. 113. Tras (A) años de estudio, los científicos de la NASA continúan a buscar (B) la fórmula más adecuada para contrarrestar (C) la gravedad. Sin error (D) 114. El presidente electo (A) ha prometido erradicar (B) la pobreza del país dentro de (C) los próximos diez años. Sin error (D) 115. Hasta hoy, el tratado mundial para rebaja (A) los aranceles (B) ha sido suscrito por (C) 26 países solamente. Sin error (D) 116. Ahora eres partidario de (A) la nueva ley tributaria, pero ayer defendistes (B) lo contrario (C). Sin error (D) 117. La tasa (A) de aumento de las enfermedades contagiosas en este país se ha cuadrado (B) durante el presente (C) año. Sin error (D) 118. Según un informe de Amnistía Internacional, el año (A) pasado se produjeron las violaciones (B) a los derechos humanos en casi todos los países del (C) mundo. Sin error (D) 119. La serie de (A) delitos objeto de (B) este proceso, se cometió entre el 15 y el 20 de enero, incluso (C). Sin error (D) 120. El cuadro clínico (A) del paciente indica que ha sufrido una recaída (B) de la pancreatitis que le afectó previamente (C). Sin error (D) 121. En la cima (A) de las montañas, el agua de la lluvia evapora (B) rápidamente a causa del viento y de la altura (C). Sin error (D) 122. No obstante (A) no haber sido dado de alta (B) por las autoridades hospitalarias, el Sr. Verdugo decidió marcharse (C) de la institución y abandonar su tratamiento. Sin error (D) 99 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Instrucciones: En cada una de las seis oraciones siguientes, que constituyen un párrafo, hay tres frases o palabras subrayadas. Entre éstas, identifique la que se debe cambiar para que la oración sea correcta y marque su selección en el espacio correspondiente (A, B, C) de la hoja de respuestas. Si la oración original es correcta, marque D (Sin error). Los errores pueden ser gramaticales, sintácticos o semánticos, y sólo hay uno en cada oración. 123. Según informó ayer la Policía de Investigaciones, expertos estadounidenses viajarán a nuestro país para cooperar en una pesquisa (A) destinada a aclarar una cuantiosa falsificación de dólares atribuidos (B) a una red internacional del crimen organizado (C). Sin error (D) 124. Diez personas, de diversas (A) nacionalidades, que supuestamente (B) integran la banda, se detuvieron (C) ayer bajo cargos de estafa y quedaron a disposición de los tribunales. Sin error (D) 125. El delito es originado (A) en Tailandia, donde la organización criminal producía un papel moneda (B) sobre el cual (C) se reproducían por contacto billetes originales, aunque desprovistos de números y series. Sin error (D) 126. Dichos pliegos (A) eran luego sometidos a un entintado (B) negro, secados y dispuestos para su envío (C) al extranjero. Sin error (D) 127. En la segunda etapa del proceso de falsificación (A) los delincuentes eliminaban el color negro, dejando los pliegos de papel de color blanco y translúcidos, listos a (B) ser expuestos (C) a luz ultravioleta, como en el revelado fotográfico. Sin error (D) 128. La última fase del proceso consistía en (A) colorear los pliegos de billetes, dotarlos de (B) números de serie ficticios y cortarlos cuidadosamente con guillotina (C). Sin error (D) 100 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK PARTE IV: Sinónimos Instrucciones: De las cuatro alternativas (A, B, C, D), escoja la que más se asemeja en significado a la palabra subrayada de la oración. Marque el espacio correspondiente de la hoja de respuestas. 129. El último discurso del presidente fue tan descabellado, que todo el país quedó atónito. A. carcomido B. átono C. afónico D. pasmado 130. Los alucinógenos producen alteraciones conductuales. A. del comportamiento B. del quehacer C. de la personalidad D. del raciocinio 131. Cuando se extravía una persona, se debe informar rápidamente a las autoridades. A. pierde B. suicida C. lesiona D. extorsiona 132. Los alquileres han aumentado en toda la ciudad. A. tributos B. arrendamientos C. prejuicios D. garfios 133. Dado lo escabroso del asunto, no se lo ha querido discutir. A. señero B. escarpado C. empinado D. peliagudo 101 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 134. Entre sus amistades era famoso por lo lujurioso. A. lascivo B. lujoso C. figurón D. estrambótico 135. Los rateros hurgaron por toda la casa. A. rebuscaron B. robaron C. cachearon D. serpentearon 136. No hay ni el más mínimo indicio de que se haya cometido un atraco. A. rastrillo B. encono C. vestigio D. rastreo 137. Cedió todos sus derechos a los futuros herederos. A. suministró B. conformó C. traspasó D. intituló 138. Reconoció que su acción había sido producto del despecho. A. despego B. vituperio C. barranco D. resentimiento 139. La sede de la empresa fue allanada ayer en la tarde por orden del juez. A. desalojada B. desahuciada C. hostigada D. registrada 102 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 140. Sólo resultó con una contusión en un muslo. A. incisión B. laceración C. magulladura D. fisura 141. Todos sabían que ella era una marrullera. A. gangosa B. tramposa C. charlatana D. derrochadora 142. El litigio será sometido a arbitraje. A. querella B. mediación C. injerencia D. intemperie 143. Fue una clara tergiversación de los hechos. A. difamación B. ampliación C. conciliación D. deformación 144. Todos notaron la ranura que había en la puerta. A. muesca B. manivela C. rendija D. ralladura 103 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK PARTE V: Identificación de la mejor traducción Instrucciones: De las cuatro alternativas (A, B, C, D), escoja la mejor traducción para la parte subrayada de la oración. Al hacerlo, considere lo que sería la traducción de toda la oración. Marque su respuesta en el espacio correspondiente de la hoja de respuestas. 145. The students were ordered to stay in their classrooms until their safety could be ensured. A. fueron ordenados a permanecer B. estuvieron ordenados a permanecer C. se los ordenó que permanecieran D. se les ordenó que permanecieran 146. The assailant was described as wearing chinos and a plaid shirt. A. listada B. escocesa C. vaquera D. punteada 147. International lending institutions are interested in co-financing arrangements with member governments. A. se interesan en cofinanciar arreglos B. les interesa el cofinanciamiento C. son interesadas en cofinanciamiento D. le interesa el llegar a cofinanciar 148. It appeared to everybody that the defendant was guilty. A. A todos les aparecía B. Les parecía a todo el mundo C. A todos les parecía D. Se parecía a todos 149. National security depends chiefly upon citizen willingness to serve in the armed forces. A. que B. sobre C. en D. de 104 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK 150. Even though what happened took place in my client's home, he was not involved in the incident. A. Aún si que B. A pesar de la que C. Si bien lo que D. Todavía si el que 151. Voir dire will be continued until tomorrow. A. El interrogatorio de los posibles jurados B. El descubrimiento de las pruebas C. La declaración del demandante D. La citación de los testigos de cargo 152. The man who picked up the package was heavy set, balding, and 35 to 40 years old. A. medio calvo B. casi peloso C. con melena D. de pelo ralo 105 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Instrucciones: De las cuatro alternativas (A, B, C, D), escoja la mejor traducción para los términos subrayados del párrafo siguiente, que es sobre la situación política en Latinoamérica. Al escoger su respuesta, considere el contexto de la parte subrayada y lo que sería la traducción de todo el párrafo. Democracy, understood as regular, free and fair elections, and respect for their results, is being taken for granted (153) in Latin America at the present time. In addition, the opposition's access to political power has become the norm (154) over the past twenty years. In almost two-thirds of the national elections since 1980, the candidate winning the presidency has been from a political party different from the incumbent. While there have been (155) multiple challenges to presidential successions, the unequivocal conclusion is that electoral democracy has taken hold in most countries in the region. This is quite an accomplishment (156), given Latin America's history of coups and other non-elected regimes. 153. A. se toma por segura B. se da por sentada C. se tiene como cierta D. se considera garantizada 154. A. ha pasado a ser la norma B. se ha transformado en normal C. se ha puesto como norma D. ha constituido en lo normal 155. A. Pese a que han habido B. Mientras han tenido C. Aun cuando ha tenido D. Aunque ha habido 156. A. Este es bien exitoso B. Eso es nada desdeñable C. Esto es todo un logro D. Ello es bastante hábil 106 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Instrucciones: De las cuatro alternativas (A, B, C, D), escoja la mejor traducción para los términos subrayados del párrafo siguiente, que es parte de un contrato de licencia. Al escoger su respuesta, considere el contexto de la parte subrayada y lo que sería la traducción de todo el párrafo. This Technology License Agreement (the "Agreement") is entered into (157) and effective (158) as of (159) this 19th day of October, 2001 (the "Effective Date") between OrangeChip Microsystems, Inc., acting by and through (160) its MicroChip division, with its principal place of business at 55 Plentiful Avenue, Reseda, California 92043, and Osteology Corporation, a corporation organized according to the laws of Indiana with its main office at 2504 Industrial Parkway, Indianapolis, Indiana 50505. 157. A. se celebra B. se entra C. se ejecuta D. se tramita 158. A. queda efectivo B. entra en vigor C. es en vigencia D. pone en efecto 159. A. a partir de B. desde este C. por ende D. con inicio 160. A. actuando por y a través B. que actúa mediante C. por la actuación de D. al actuar por medio de 107 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK Federal Court Interpreters Certification Examination: Written Examination Answer Key - Practice Test ENGLISH SECTION PART I PART II PART III PART IV PART V 1. B 17. C 33. C 49. D 65. C 2. D 18. A 34. A 50. A 66. A 3. B 19. A 35. B 51. B 67. A 4. A 20. A 36. C 52. C 68. C 5. A 21. B 37. B 53. C 69. B 6. D 22. D 38. B 54. A 70. A 7. A 23. B 39. D 55. D 71. C 8. B 24. D 40. C 56. A 72. D 9. C 25. B 41. C 57. D 73. A 10. A 26. C 42. B 58. B 74. A 11. A 27. D 43. B 59. D 75. D 12. D 28. D 44. C 60. B 76. C 13. C 29. B 45. D 61. D 77. A 14. B 30. D 46. C 62. C 78. C 15. D 31. C 47. B 63. A 79. B 16. B 32. D 48. C 64. D 80. A SPANISH SECTION PART I PART II PART III PART IV PART V 81. A 97. D 113. B 129. D 145. D 82. C 98. B 114. D 130. A 146. B 83. A 99. D 115. A 131. A 147. B 84. B 100. D 116. B 132. B 148. C 85. B 101. C 117. B 133. D 149. D 86. D 102. C 118. B 134. A 150. C 87. C 103. A 119. C 135. A 151. A 88. A 104. A 120. D 136. C 152. A 89. B 105. C 121. B 137. C 153. B 90. A 106. C 122. D 138. D 154. A 91. B 107. D 123. B 139. D 155. D 92. B 108. B 124. C 140. C 156. C 93. B 109. D 125. A 141. B 157. A 94. A 110. A 126. D 142. B 158. B 95. D 111. C 127. B 143. D 159. A 96. D 112. B 128. D 144. C 160. B 108 FCICE EXAMINEE HANDBOOK PART 8 PRACTICE ORAL EXAMINATION Please click the following link (or copy and paste it in your browser's search engine) to take the Practice Oral Examination online. http://www.ncsconline.org/d_research/fcice_exam/oralpracexam.htm 109
Pages to are hidden for
"Examinee Handbook"Please download to view full document