Licensure | Illinois Content Exams

Diverse Learning/Special Education - All Grades (290)

If you have been assigned to Diverse Learning (or Special Education) you will take the Learning Behavior Specialist Exam (290). This exam is computer-based test and you can take them at a Testing location near you (aka- you don't need to be in Illinois). Most corps members assigned to this content area express some nervousness about this exam because it may include content and information in which you have very limited knowledge. However, with dedicated study time (and proactive outreach for support) we see approximately 90% of corps members pass this exam.  

Logistics

  • This exam is computer-based (you can take them from a testing center anywhere in the US and some international locations).

  • The cost of this exam is $99.

  • If you fail, you can retake this exam. However, you must wait 14 days before re-testing.

Study Tips

  • Use the ILTS Study Guides (located below). Recent Corps Members said this was the most helpful study resource! The ILTS 290 is a newer exam and has limited study materials, but aligns to the material previously on the ILTS 155 exam. You will see 155 study guides as well as any material we have on the 290 exam below.

    • Use a study guide template to plan your studying and hold yourself accountable

    • Carve out time to study and honor that time on your calendar. What does this mean? Make sure you are dedicating real time to studying - if you put a 2 hour block on your calendar then prioritize that commitment (don't schedule over it). On average 90% of folks that studied for at least 10 hours passed this exam.

    • Work together, you are a team! Reach out to each other (and your regional staff) via Slack if you need support or have questions!

    • Have compassion for yourself and for others. Sometimes even our best-laid plans have to change because life happens and testing cannot always be a priority. We understand that and are here for you. If you need to change your test date or ask for an extension just reach out to Steven Grosso via a direct message in Slack.

    • Test Taking Strategies (and tips for test anxiety) Check out these strategies on preparing for your exam, taking the exam, and your own wellness. This is especially helpful if you have test anxiety.

Content Specific Resources

START HERE:

Additional Resources:

  • 155 LBS 1 Flashcards <Recommended by the recent corps>

  • Free 155 Study Guide on TeachersPayTeachers

    • Create a free account on TeachersPayTeachers.com and download this study guide for no cost. The links in the “Review” section help you familiarize yourself with key concepts of Special Education. Also includes links to Quizlet flashcards.

  • CPS- Understanding Special Education: Read about Special Education at CPS, including the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). 

  • Understanding Special Education in Illinois

What the 2020 Corps Said About the Diverse Learning Exams

We surveyed the 2020 Corps about what was most helpful in preparing for their 1exam. Here’s their feedback:

  • The study guides provided by ISBE were helpful for these tests, as well as the quizlet online flashcards. Specifically, the flashcards were helpful. A CM recommended the book Teaching Exceptional Learners: Intro to SPED in preparation for the exam.

  • One CM wished they would have learned more in advance about the tools and strategies SPED teachers use in their classroom.

  • It’s okay to be nervous! Most people who take the exam don’t have previous experience with SPED prior to taking the test so be comfortable in that and make sure you plan enough time to study and research.

  • Reflect on your own schooling and what accommodations and resources were provided to students to make sure they were set-up for success.

Test Taking Strategies

Review our preparation and anxiety-reducing strategies for better test taking.