HomeMy WebLinkAboutB-4 Billingual Testing w HUMAN RESOURCES
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INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM 8
AZ USA
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: Dottie Wallace, Human Resources Man.,• ,
Via: Rick Cole, City Manager
Date: July 6, 2000
Subject: Bilingual Testing
The purpose of this memo is to provide you with information about the procedures utilized to
provide employees with premium pay for use of bilingual skills.
As you know,the various bargaining units provide premium pay for bilingual skills. This benefit was
first implemented in the APOA Memoranda of Understanding in 1989, and other Memoranda of
Understanding in 1993. Examinations have been administered in 1989, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997,
2000. All employees who receive bilingual pay speak Spanish—except one Police Department
employee who speaks Mandarin Chinese.
A third-party examiner mutually agreed upon by the City and the unit conducts the examinations.
In 1989, City Clerk Adolph Solis administered the examination to APOA employees. In 1993,when
other units added the benefit,the services of Mr. Richard Douglas, Spanish Teacher,were utilized.
Mr. Douglas passed away and since then the units have agreed to utilize City Clerk Adolph Solis
administers the verbal skills examination. I administer the attached written examination developed
by Mr. Douglas in consultation with Mr. Geoff Craig (Director of Finance and Chief Negotiator at
the time the benefit was implemented). Director of Utilities Joe Hsu administered the verbal
examination for Mandarin Chinese.
The attached policy, notices, and forms are in place today and I trust be will helpful to you in
understanding the City's Policy and examination procedure. If I may be of assistance, please do
not hesitate to contact me.
encls: Premium Bilingual Pay Policy
Notice to Eligible Employees -
Application
Written Examination DIPU
Oral Examination Scoring Sheet
(J0)1161111:4'14)6t
/1/le
PREMIUM BILINGUAL PAY POLICY
The City of Azusa and its employee units wish to ascertain that the City is being accurately and consistently
represented by its bilingual employees and that they are properly compensated for doing so. As a result,the
City and the employee units,working together,have established the following guidelines concerning eligibility
for bilingual premium pay:
1. The employee's supervisor must certify that the employee's position with the City necessitates
that the employee must, on a frequent basis, be able to speak and accurately and completely
translate into another foreign language questions,documents or other written items with a clear
mutual understanding of the parties.
2. The employee must demonstrate proficiency in another foreign language to a qualified third-party
examiner who has been mutually agreed upon among the City and its various employee units.
The proficiency test consists of a written part and an oral part. Both parts measure correctness
of grammar and sentence structure, both in formal and familiar usage, within the context of the
employee's position with the City.
NOTICIA MUY IMPORTANTE
TO: ELIGIBLE EMPLOYEES
FROM: DOTTIE WALLACE, HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER/PERSONNEL OFFICER
SUBJECT: BI-LINGUAL PREMIUM PAY
The City of Azusa offers premium pay to qualified full-time employees who speak and/or read and write in one
or more languages other than English in the course of their daily work. The amount of premium pay varies
slightly, depending upon the Memorandum of Understanding that covers your classification.
BI- ACEA CAPP IBEW APOA APMA
LINGUAL (Spanish (Spanish (Any major (Any major (any major
PAY Only) Only) language) language) language)
(Premium)
Verbal Skills $50/month $50/month $50/month effective 7-1-98: 4.0% of base pay
effective 7-1-99: 4.5% of base pay
effective 7-1-2000: 5% of base pay
Written $25/month $25/month $25/month
Skills
POLICY PREMIUM BILINGUAL PAY POLICY-The City of Azusa and its employee units wish to ascertain
that the City is being accurately and consistently represented by its bilingual employees and that they are
properly compensated for doing so. As a result, the City and employee units, working together, have
established the following guidelines concerning eligibility for bilingual premium pay:
1. The employee's department head must certify that the employee's position with the City
necessitates that the employee must,on a frequent basis, be able to speak and accurately and
completely translate into another foreign language questions,documents and other written items
with a clear mutual understanding of the parties.
2. The employee must demonstrate proficiency in another foreign language to a qualified third-party
examiner who has been mutually agreed upon among the City and its various employee units.
The proficiency test consists of a written part and an oral part. Both parts measure correctness
of grammar and sentence structure, both in formal and familiar usage,within the context of the
employee's position with the City.
EXAMINATION PROCESS -Applications will be accepted continuously from current employees. To be
eligible for bilingual pay from date of hire,new employees must apply within 30 days from his/her appointment
date. The examination will be given at least once every fiscal year(if applications are received)at a date
and time determined by the Human Resources Office.
To register for the exam, complete the Application For Bilingual Premium Pay on the reverse side and
return to Human Resources within 30 days of appointment. Human Resources will forward your application
to your department head for certification. The effective date for the premium pay will be the earlier date of the
following:
1) Date of completion of language course (certification must accompany application), or
2) Hire date of new employee who submits an application within 30 days thereof.
SCHEDULE OF NEXT EXAM - You will be notified when testing is scheduled. Please do not hesitate
to contact Human Resources staff on the following extensions should you have any questions: Dottie;5281,
Debbie, 5302; Cheryl 5241.
X:\Pers Admin\Bi-ling\Forms and Notices\EE Notice&application(3/2000)
CITY OF AZUSA
APPLICATION FOR BILINGUAL PREMIUM PAY
Employee Name
Classification
Department/Division
Applicable Memorandum of Understanding
Check the appropriate boxes below.
❑ New Employee (Application must be made within 30 days from the date of hire):
I am entering employment with previously-established proficiency in the language listed below; and
pursuant to the memorandum of understanding that covers my classification, I hereby apply for bilingual
premium pay as checked below (does not apply to employees represented by Middle Management
Association or Executive resolution).Appt date:
❑ Current Employee: Pursuant to the Memorandum of Understanding that covers my classification, I
hereby apply for bilingual premium pay as checked below(does not apply to employees represented by
Middle Management Association or Executive resolution). I have/will have completed a course in the
language on (Certification of completion
must be attached)
I am applying for premium bilingual as checked below
Language:
❑ verbal ❑written (does not apply to APOA or APMA represented employees)
Employee signature /Date
DEPARTMENT HEAD CERTIFICATION(must be signed)
I certify that the above-named applicant for bilingual pay occupies a position that necessitates that the
employee, on a frequent basis, be able to speak and accurately and completely translate into another
foreign language questions,documents or other written items with a clear mutual understanding of the parties.
The following examples illustrate the circumstances in which bilingual abilities will be utilized for the position:
PLEASE ATTACH A LIST OF TEN QUESTIONS WITH RESPONSES THAT REPRESENT THE
SITUATIONS IN WHICH THE ABOVE EMPLOYEE WILL BE UTILIZING BILINGUAL SKILLS. THESE
QUESTIONS WILL BE UTILIZED IN THE EXAMINATION AND SHOULD NOT BE DISCUSSED WITH THE
EMPLOYEE. THANK YOU FOR RETURNING THEM TO HUMAN RESOUCES AS SOON AS POSSIBLE
IN A CONFIDENTIAL ENVELOPE
Department Head Signature date
X:\Pers Admin\Bi-Iino\Forms and Notices\EE Notice&application(3/2000)
AZUSA fit
CITY OF
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CITY OF
41%IZUSA
SPANISH
WRITTEN LANGUAGE EXAMINATION
Time Limit: 1 hour
Passing Score: 76%
Printed Name of Employee
Classification
Department/Division
Employee Signature
Date of Examination
Please circlue the letter which represents the correct answer. You may write in this
examination.
Word Usage : You will see a series of Spanish "expresiones" in this section.
lnstrucciones: Choose the sentence that MOST CLOSELY translates the following
idiomatic Spanish phrases. For example, if this "expresiOn" were used
in a Spanish sentence, which of the English sentences below MOST
CLOSELY translates this Spanish "expresiOn"?
1. Dara:
A. The office complex faces the freeway.
B. Every employee must give it their all.
C. The structure of the building gives the illusion of a church.
D. Some employees have the opinion that work is not important.
2. Eso dara mucho que decir:
A. That behavior will cause a lot of criticism.
B. Gossip has some degree of truth.
C. Those who keep silence conceal a lot.
D. If you don't speak up you won't be heard.
3. Gritar:
A. To speak too much.
B. To shout.
C. To speak in a soft voice.
D. To whisper.
4. Dar los buenos dias a alguien:
A. To say good day to anyone.
B. To wish someone a good holiday.
C. To say good morning to someone.
D. To say good afternoon to anyone.
5. 6A cuantos estamos?
A. What time is it?
B. How much is it?
C. What is the date?
D. Where are we?
Page 1 of 9
6. Estar de acuerdo:
A. Everyone disagreed about what to do.
B. I can't wait because I'm in a hurry
C. I wish to differ with you.
D. They agreed on everything except the time to meet.
7. Estar a punto de:
A. I am going about it differently the second time around.
B. We were about to leave when they arrived.
C. We are going to travel about the state pitching sales.
D. I know nothing about that matter.
8. Tener en cuenta:
A. I want to account for the total amount of the bill.
B. A full accounting of events is not possible.
C. I have to take into account what you have said.
D. I have to give you a summary of everything that happened.
9. Estar al dia:
A. I am up to date on the office operations.
B. I will go there today.
C. What day is it today?
D. I want to open an account today.
10. Hacer caso de:
A Just act as if nothing has happened.
B. Think nothing of it.
C. Please pay attention to what I'm saying.
D. I have to take care of these matters immediately.
11. Hacer el papel de:
A. Draw up some letterhead.
B. The assistant manager is playing the role of manager.
C. Write a letter to the company president.
D. He sells dolls made out of paper.
Page 2 of 9
12. Poner en claro:
A. Today was cloudier than yesterday.
B. The water was cold but clear.
C. Someone has got to clean up this mess.
D. I tried to clarify what I meant.
13. A fin de cuentas:
A. After all, I do have a job.
B. At the end, I can't win for losing.
C. Furthermore, I don't care if someone else gets the job.
D. Besides, you don't have a good sense for numbers.
14. Hacer una visita:
A. Don't hesitate to call on me.
B. Come to our office at your first opportunity.
C. Please call the doctor to make an appointment.
D. I have to pay a visit to the union.
15. Poner en marcha:
A. I need to set in motion the social activities planned.
B. I don't like to march in a parade.
C. The soldiers march to the beat of the drums.
D. We need to put all of the legal property documents in order.
16. Enfermarse:
A. Employees that abuse their sick leave are disciplined.
B. I got sick after lunch yesterday.
C. Some employees have a tendency to call-in sick on Mondays.
D. Juvenile delinquents who misbehave require counseling.
17. Debe de ser:
A. We have to reach a conclusion soon.
B. It is likely that the weather will not improve.
C. It is probably going to be another typical Monday.
D. There is no great danger in making an executive decision.
Page 3 of 9
18. Estar a punto de:
A. The report I wrote is about the perils of testing.
B. I am writing for the results to make a decision.
C. He is getting appointed to Director.
D. He is about to get a promotion.
19. Parece mentira:
A. I have known people to lie about their age.
B. I find it hard to believe someone after they have lied.
C. Just imagine what it takes to convince someone.
D. It seems impossible to aspire to one's dreams.
20. Tratarse de:
A. It's a question of money and status.
B. Everyone is entitled to equal treatment.
C. It's a matter of opinion.
D. It's all about who you know.
21. Echar una ojeada a:
A. I'm getting ready to study.
B. I'm reading up on the Americans with Disabilities Act.
C. I have to read over his results before giving an opinion.
D. I developed and reviewed the exam.
22. Tener que ver con:
A. I have to meet with my boss when he's available.
B. He has got to find a new job because he's getting laid off.
C. They have nothing to do with this company.
D. The boss has got it in for us.
23. Romper el hielo:
A. He broke the ice with his joke.
B. We're skating on this ice.
C. He cuts no ice with the manager.
D. He's as cold as ice when he doesn't get what he wants.
Page 4 of 9
24. Todo el mundo:
A. Nobody was invited to the opening of the new building.
B. If anyone calls while I'm out, take a message.
C. I'm sure someone will call as soon as I leave.
D. This time everybody was in agreement.
25. Llevarse bien con:
A. They have agreed to meet in the square.
B. What he wants is to get along with his co-workers.
C. I don't want to be in their bad books.
D. I only have three hours of vacation left.
26. Hasta el punto:
A. I want to know exactly what you said.
B. He returned the money to me at once.
C. In a way what you say is true.
D. I trained to such an extent that I couldn't learn more.
27. De repente:
A. At first the client rejected the bad news.
B. I need to return to work as soon as possible.
C. Suddenly I realized I was late for a meeting.
D. For the time being I can manage on my own.
28. Tener prisa:
A. I'm in a hurry to get to work.
B. Don't worry about getting me the test results.
C. The customers are always glad to leave.
D. My co-worker always works very fast.
29. Dar principio a:
A. I knew it all along but didn't say anything.
B. The conference was opened with the national anthem.
C. At first I felt overwhelmed by all the information.
D. In principle it's true but not necessarily workable.
Page 5 of 9
•
30. No poder menos de:
A. He exerted himself for all he was worth.
B. He can't go on pretending he's not in pain when it's obvious.
C. I can't stand the sight of people crying.
D. She can't help worrying about her job.
31. Abrirse paso:
A. Set the pace and others will follow.
B. Take one step at a time.
C. He made his way through graduate school on his own.
D. Watch your step along the way.
32. No hay que darle vueltas:
A. In order to get it you've got to get around him.
B. Without a question he is the fairest boss.
C. There's no use talking about it.
D. He started back to the office.
33. En su vida:
A. Never in my life have I had it this easy.
B. In a single lifetime you can't do much.
C. During his lifetime he worked a lot.
D. He earns his living by doing consulting work.
34. El viaje de ida y vuelta:
A. The big bosses took a trip to Sacramento.
B. The round trip to Sacramento took several hours.
C. Tomorrow we're leaving on a trip to San Diego.
D. A few of the employees here are on a business trip.
35. Tomar a mal:
A. They took me for a sucker for the last time.
B. He didn't take the trouble to clarify what he meant.
C. He took it upon himself now he has to live with the consequences.
D. I was only kidding but he took it amiss.
Page 6 of 9
Logical Responses
Instrucciones--For each problem below a certain situation is suggested. Select the BEST
response according to the information given in each situation.
36. Hernando IlegO a la ventanilla y le dijo a la taquillera:
A. ,A como me da los tacos?
B. Dos boletos para la tarde.
C. Habra treinta minutos de demora.
D. SEs aqui donde para el autobils numero treinta y cuatro?
37. Estoy en casa de mi amigo; hace mucho calor, y por eso digo:
A. ,Me puedo poner el abrigo?
B. Enciende la calefaccion, por favor.
C. e:,No podriamos abrir una ventana?
D. Apaga la luz, por favor.
38. El joven cantor terming su programa con gran exito, pero los aficionados seguian
aplaudiendo y como no queria cantar más, dijo:
A. Me despido diciendoles que son ustedes muy amables.
B. El artista no es de aqui.
C. No dejen de aplaudir.
D. iComo me encantan los programas!
39. Le pregunte cuanto costaba todo y me respondio:
A. A las cinco.
B. Doce cincuenta.
C. En cuanto me pague.
D. Se to voy a envolver.
40. A Elena le gustaba el traje nuevo de su marido, y le dijo:
A. 'Mira bien de nuevo!
B. iQue elegante estas!
C. iQue calor hace!
D. iQue feo to ves!
Page 7 of 9
41. Vi que mi hijito se asomaba a la ventana. Temiendo que se cayera, le grite:
A. iAbre la ventana!
B. iCuanto frio hace!
C. iTen cuidado!
D. gala que to caigas!
42. Roberto le presto el libro a Carlos hace tiempo y ahora to necesita. Le pregunta:
A. ,Cuando regresares?
B. ,Me lo puedes devolver pronto?
C. ,Por que no me Ilevas a la escuela?
D. c,Me envuelves el libro pronto?
43. Un hombre le ha quitado la bolsa a una senora, y por eso ella grita:
A. iRobame!
B. iAdelante!
C. iFuera!
D. iLadron!
44. El dejo su abrigo en el teatro. Regreso y pregunto:
A. e:,Cuanto vale?
B. ,Alguien lo ha encontrado?
C. ,Puedo usar el telefono?
D. ,Cuando sail del teatro?
45. Cuando los otros viajeros ofrecieron compartir su merienda con Carlos, este
respondio:
A. Gracias, por eso estan Uds. tan gordos.
B. No gracias, no quiero viajar.
C. Gracias, que se aprovechen.
D. Gracias, porque no me acostumbro a comer a solas.
Page 8 of 9
Instrucciones: Below are incomplete statements followed by response options. Select
the most appropriate response that completes each statement.
46. Paco entro en el comedor con la bandeja Ilena de pasteles y se puso a ...
A. barrer el piso.
B. comer la bandeja.
C. fregar la vajilla.
D. servir la merienda.
47. La senora que tenia un fuerte dolor de cabeza pidio ...
A. una aspirina.
B. un psicOlogo.
C. una vitamina.
D. una porcion grande de tacos.
48. La familia era rica y vivia muy cOmodamente a causa de sus ...
A. rinones.
B. riquezas.
C. rigores.
D. rincones.
49. Los hijos del senor Martinez pueden permitirse ciertos lujos porque su padre les
dejo una gran ...
A. dueda.
B. herida.
C. herejia.
D. herencia.
E. desgracia.
50. Han caido varias pulgadas de nieve y el campo ...
A. esta nublado.
B. Ilueve con fuerza.
C. esta verde y grande.
D. parece una sabana blanca.
Page 9 of 9
ORAL EXAMINATION SCORING SHEET
In order to pass the oral phase of the bilingual examination and qualify for premium bilingual pay, the
employee must attain a score of 18 points(72%)or better. Points are deducted for: lack of knowledge of
vocabulary;unclear,vague,inadequate,misleading responses;uncertain of vocabulary;incorrect vocabulary
relying too much on English. The candidate should be able to express ideas with fluency while responding
to situations in which they will be expected to translate.
Name of Candidate:
Classification:
Department/Division:
Date of Exam: Time of Exam:
1. INTRODUCTION(5 points) TOTAL:
O lack of knowledge of vocabulary
O unclear,vague,inadequate,misleading responses
❑ uncertain of vocabulary
O incorrect vocabulary relying too much on English
2. PROBLEM(5 points) TOTAL:
❑ lack of knowledge of vocabulary
O unclear,vague,inadequate,misleading responses
O uncertain of vocabulary
O incorrect vocabulary relying too much on English
3. PROBLEM(5 points) TOTAL:
O lack of knowledge of vocabulary
O unclear,vague,inadequate,misleading responses
O uncertain of vocabulary
O incorrect vocabulary relying too much on English
4. PROBLEM(5 points) TOTAL:
O lack of knowledge of vocabulary
O unclear,vague,inadequate,misleading responses
O uncertain of vocabulary
O incorrect vocabulary relying too much on English
5. SUMMARY--overall statement as to the usefulness of candidate's bilingual abilities in serving
the City.
(5 points) TOTAL:
O lack of knowledge of vocabulary
O unclear,vague,inadequate,misleading responses
O uncertain of vocabulary
O incorrect vocabulary relying too much on English
I certify that I have examined the above-named candidate to determine his/her ability to speak the Spanish
Language within the context of the position held with the City. I have determined that the candidate
obtained the following score:
TOTAL POINTS PERCENTAGE SCORE ❑ PASS ❑ NO PASS
Examiner Signature,Adolph Solis,City Clerk /Date
ORAL EXAMINATION SCORING SHEET
In order to pass the oral phase of the bilingual examination and qualify for premium bilingual pay, the
employee must attain a score of 18 points (72%) or better. Points are deducted for: lack of knowledge of
vocabulary; unclear,vague,inadequate,misleading responses;uncertain of vocabulary;incorrect vocabulary
relying too much on English. The candidate should be able to express ideas with fluency while responding
to situations in which they will be expected to translate.
Name of Candidate:
Classification:
Department/Division:
Date of Exam: Time of Exam:
1. INTRODUCTION (5 points) TOTAL:
❑ lack of knowledge of vocabulary
❑ unclear,vague, inadequate, misleading responses
❑ uncertain of vocabulary
❑ incorrect vocabulary relying too much on English
2. PROBLEM (5 points) TOTAL:
❑ lack of knowledge of vocabulary
❑ unclear,vague, inadequate, misleading responses
❑ uncertain of vocabulary
❑ incorrect vocabulary relying too much on English
3. PROBLEM (5 points) TOTAL:
❑ lack of knowledge of vocabulary
U unclear, vague, inadequate, misleading responses
❑ uncertain of vocabulary
❑ incorrect vocabulary relying too much on English
4. PROBLEM (5 points) TOTAL:
❑ lack of knowledge of vocabulary
❑ unclear,vague, inadequate, misleading responses
❑ uncertain of vocabulary
❑ incorrect vocabulary relying too much on English
5. SUMMARY--overall statement as to the usefulness of candidate's bilingual abilities in serving
the City.
(5 points) TOTAL:
U lack of knowledge of vocabulary
❑ unclear,vague, inadequate, misleading responses
U uncertain of vocabulary
❑ incorrect vocabulary relying too much on English
I certify that I have examined the above-named candidate to determine his/her ability to speak the Spanish
Language within the context of the position held with the City. I have determined that the candidate
obtained the following score:
TOTAL POINTS PERCENTAGE SCORE ❑ PASS ❑ NO PASS
Examiner Signature, Adolph Solis, City Clerk /Date
JOr
., HUMAN RESOURCES
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: Dottie Wallace, Human Resources Man- _- 0
Via: Rick Cole, City Manager
Date: July 6, 2000
Subject: Bilingual Testing
The purpose of this memo is to provide you with information about the procedures utilized to
provide employees with premium pay for use of bilingual skills.
As you know,the various bargaining units provide premium pay for bilingual skills. This benefit was
first implemented in the APOA Memoranda of Understanding in 1989, and other Memoranda of
Understanding in 1993. Examinations have been administered in 1989, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997,
2000. All employees who receive bilingual pay speak Spanish—except one Police Department
employee who speaks Mandarin Chinese.
�.. A third-party examiner mutually agreed upon by the City and the unit conducts the examinations.
In 1989, City Clerk Adolph Solis administered the examination to APOA employees. In 1993,when
other units added the benefit,the services of Mr. Richard Douglas, Spanish Teacher,were utilized.
Mr. Douglas passed away and since then the units have agreed to utilize City Clerk Adolph Solis
administers the verbal skills examination. I administer the attached written examination developed
by Mr. Douglas in consultation with Mr. Geoff Craig (Director of Finance and Chief Negotiator at
the time the benefit was implemented). Director of Utilities Joe Hsu administered the verbal
examination for Mandarin Chinese.
The attached policy, notices, and forms are in place today and I trust be will helpful to you in
understanding the City's Policy and examination procedure. If I may be of assistance, please do
not hesitate to contact me.
ends: Premium Bilingual Pay Policy
Notice to Eligible Employees
Application
Written Examination
Oral Examination Scoring Sheet
PREMIUM BILINGUAL PAY POLICY "'1
The City of Azusa and its employee units wish to ascertain that the City is being accurately and consistently
represented by its bilingual employees and that they are properly compensated for doing so. As a result,the
City and the employee units,working together,have established the following guidelines concerning eligibility
for bilingual premium pay:
1. The employee's supervisor must certify that the employee's position with the City necessitates
that the employee must, on a frequent basis, be able to speak and accurately and completely
translate into another foreign language questions,documents or other written items with a clear
mutual understanding of the parties.
2. The employee must demonstrate proficiency in another foreign language to a qualified third-party
examiner who has been mutually agreed upon among the City and its various employee units.
The proficiency test consists of a written part and an oral part. Both parts measure correctness
of grammar and sentence structure, both in formal and familiar usage,within the context of the
employee's position with the City.
•
NOTICIA MUY IMPORTANTE
TO: ELIGIBLE EMPLOYEES
FROM: DOTTIE WALLACE, HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER/PERSONNEL OFFICER
SUBJECT: BI-LINGUAL PREMIUM PAY
The City of Azusa offers premium pay to qualified full-time employees who speak and/or read and write in one
or more languages other than English in the course of their daily work. The amount of premium pay varies
slightly, depending upon the Memorandum of Understanding that covers your classification.
BI- ACEA CAPP IBEW APOA APMA
LINGUAL (Spanish (Spanish (Any major (Any major (any major
PAY Only) Only) language) language) language)
(Premium)
Verbal Skills $50/month $50/month $50/month effective 7-1-98: 4.0% of base pay
effective 7-1-99: 4.5%of base pay
effective 7-1-2000: 5% of base pay
Written $25/month $25/month $25/month
Skills
POLICY PREMIUM BILINGUAL PAY POLICY-The City of Azusa and its employee units wish to ascertain
that the City is being accurately and consistently represented by its bilingual employees and that they are
properly compensated for doing so. As a result, the City and employee units, working together, have
established the following guidelines concerning eligibility for bilingual premium pay:
1. The employee's department head must certify that the employee's position with the City
necessitates that the employee must,on a frequent basis, be able to speak and accurately and
completely translate into another foreign language questions,documents and other written items
with a clear mutual understanding of the parties.
2. The employee must demonstrate proficiency in another foreign language to a qualified third-party
examiner who has been mutually agreed upon among the City and its various employee units.
The proficiency test consists of a written part and an oral part. Both parts measure correctness
of grammar and sentence structure, both in formal and familiar usage, within the context of the
employee's position with the City.
EXAMINATION PROCESS -Applications will be accepted continuously from current employees. To be
eligible for bilingual pay from date of hire,new employees must apply within 30 days from his/her appointment
date. The examination will be given at least once every fiscal year(if applications are received)at a date
and time determined by the Human Resources Office.
To register for the exam, complete the Application For Bilingual Premium Pay on the reverse side and
return to Human Resources within 30 days of appointment. Human Resources will forward your application
to your department head for certification. The effective date for the premium pay will be the earlier date of the
following:
1) Date of completion of language course (certification must accompany application), or
2) Hire date of new employee who submits an application within 30 days thereof.
SCHEDULE OF NEXT EXAM - You will be notified when testing is scheduled. Please do not hesitate
to contact Human Resources staff on the following extensions should you have any questions: Dottie;5281,
Debbie, 5302; Cheryl 5241.
X:\Pers Admin\Bi-ling\Forms and Notices\EE Notice&application(312000)
CITY OF AZUSA •
APPLICATION FOR BILINGUAL PREMIUM PAY
Employee Name
Classification
Department/Division
Applicable Memorandum of Understanding
Check the appropriate boxes below.
❑ New Employee (Application must be made within 30 days from the date of hire):
I am entering employment with previously-established proficiency in the language listed below; and
pursuant to the memorandum of understanding that covers my classification, I hereby apply for bilingual
premium pay as checked below (does not apply to employees represented by Middle Management
Association or Executive resolution).Appt date:
❑ Current Employee: Pursuant to the Memorandum of Understanding that covers my classification, I
hereby apply for bilingual premium pay as checked below(does not apply to employees represented by
Middle Management Association or Executive resolution). I have/will have completed a course in the
language on (Certification of completion
must be attached)
I am applying for premium bilingual as checked below
Language: .
U verbal U written (does not apply to APOA or APMA represented employees)
Employee signature /Date
DEPARTMENT HEAD CERTIFICATION(must be signed)
I certify that the above-named applicant for bilingual pay occupies a position that necessitates that the
employee, on a frequent basis, be able to speak and accurately and completely translate into another
foreign language questions,documents or other written items with a clear mutual understanding of the parties.
The following examples illustrate the circumstances in which bilingual abilities will be utilized for the position:
PLEASE ATTACH A LIST OF TEN QUESTIONS WITH RESPONSES THAT REPRESENT THE
SITUATIONS IN WHICH THE ABOVE EMPLOYEE WILL BE UTILIZING BILINGUAL SKILLS. THESE
QUESTIONS WILL BE UTILIZED IN THE EXAMINATION AND SHOULD NOT BE DISCUSSED WITH THE
EMPLOYEE. THANK YOU FOR RETURNING THEM TO HUMAN RESOUCES AS SOON AS POSSIBLE
IN A CONFIDENTIAL ENVELOPE
Department Head Signature date
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SPANISH
WRITTEN LANGUAGE EXAMINATION
Time Limit: 1 hour
Passing Score: 76%
Printed Name of Employee
Classification
Department/Division
Employee Signature
\.,.,, Date of Examination
Please circlue the letter which represents the correct answer. You may write in this ,..,
examination.
Word Usage : You will see a series of Spanish "expresiones" in this section.
Instrucciones: Choose the sentence that MOST CLOSELY translates the following
idiomatic Spanish phrases. For example, if this "expresiOn" were used
in a Spanish sentence, which of the English sentences below MOST
CLOSELY translates this Spanish "expresiOn"?
1. Dar a:
A. The office complex faces the freeway.
B. Every employee must give it their all.
C. The structure of the building gives the illusion of a church.
D. Some employees have the opinion that work is not important.
2. Eso dara mucho que decir:
A. That behavior will cause a lot of criticism.
B. Gossip has some degree of truth.
C. Those who keep silence conceal a lot.
D. If you don't speak up you won't be heard. ...�
3. Gritar:
A. To speak too much.
B. To shout.
C. To speak in a soft voice.
D. To whisper.
4. Dar los buenos dias a alguien:
A. To say good day to anyone.
B. To wish someone a good holiday.
C. To say good morning to someone.
D. To say good afternoon to anyone.
5. e:,A cuantos estamos?
A. What time is it?
B. How much is it?
C. What is the date?
D. Where are we?
Page 1 of 9
•
6. Estar de acuerdo:
A. Everyone disagreed about what to do.
B. I can't wait because I'm in a hurry
C. I wish to differ with you.
D. They agreed on everything except the time to meet.
7. Estar a punto de:
A. I am going about it differently the second time around.
B. We were about to leave when they arrived.
C. We are going to travel about the state pitching sales.
D. I know nothing about that matter.
8. Tener en cuenta:
A. I want to account for the total amount of the bill.
B. A full accounting of events is not possible.
C. I have to take into account what you have said.
D. I have to give you a summary of everything that happened.
9. Estar al dia:
A. I am up to date on the office operations.
B. I will go there today.
C. What day is it today?
D. I want to open an account today.
10. Hacer caso de:
A Just act as if nothing has happened.
B. Think nothing of it.
C. Please pay attention to what I'm saying.
D. I have to take care of these matters immediately.
11. Hacer el papel de:
A. Draw up some letterhead.
B. The assistant manager is playing the role of manager.
C. Write a letter to the company president.
D. He sells dolls made out of paper.
`"' Page 2 of 9
12. Poner en claro:
A. Today was cloudier than yesterday.
B. The water was cold but clear.
C. Someone has got to clean up this mess.
D. I tried to clarify what I meant.
13. A fin de cuentas:
A. After all, I do have a job.
B. At the end, I can't win for losing.
C. Furthermore, I don't care if someone else gets the job.
D. Besides, you don't have a good sense for numbers.
14. Hacer una visita:
A. Don't hesitate to call on me.
B. Come to our office at your first opportunity.
C._ Please call the doctor to make an appointment.
D. I have to pay a visit to the union.
15. Poner en marcha:
A. I need to set in motion the social activities planned.
B. I don't like to march in a parade.
C. The soldiers march to the beat of the drums.
D. We need to put all of the legal property documents in order.
16. Enfermarse:
A. Employees that abuse their sick leave are disciplined.
B. I got sick after lunch yesterday.
C. Some employees have a tendency to call-in sick on Mondays.
D. Juvenile delinquents who misbehave require counseling.
17. Debe de ser:
A. We have to reach a conclusion soon.
B. It is likely that the weather will not improve.
C. It is probably going to be another typical Monday.
D. There is no great danger in making an executive,decision.
Page 3 of 9
18. Estar a punto de:
A. The report I wrote is about the perils of testing.
B. I am writing for the results to make a decision.
C. He is getting appointed to Director.
D. He is about to get a promotion.
19. Parece mentira:
A. I have known people to lie about their age.
B. I find it hard to believe someone after they have lied.
C. Just imagine what it takes to convince someone.
D. It seems impossible to aspire to one's dreams.
20. Tratarse de:
A. It's a question of money and status.
B. Everyone is entitled to equal treatment.
C. It's a matter of opinion.
D. It's all about who you know.
21. Echar una ojeada a:
\... A. I'm getting ready to study.
B. I'm reading up on the Americans with Disabilities Act.
C. I have to read over his results before giving an opinion.
D. I developed and reviewed the exam.
22. Tener que ver con:
A. I have to meet with my boss when he's available.
B. He has got to find a new job because he's getting laid off.
C. They have nothing to do with this company.
D. The boss has got it in for us.
23. Romper el hielo:
A. He broke the ice with his joke.
B. We're skating on this ice.
C. He cuts no ice with the manager.
D. He's as cold as ice when he doesn't get what he wants.
Page 4 of 9
24. Todo el mundo: --�
A. Nobody was invited to the opening of the new building.
B. If anyone calls while I'm out, take a message.
C. I'm sure someone will call as soon as I leave.
D. This time everybody was in agreement.
25. Llevarse bien con:
A. They have agreed to meet in the square.
B. What he wants is to get along with his co-workers.
C. I don't want to be in their bad books.
D. I only have three hours of vacation left.
26. Hasta el punto:
A. I want to know exactly what you said.
B. He returned the money to me at once.
C. In a way what you say is true.
D. I trained to such an extent that I couldn't learn more.
27. De repente:
A. At first the client rejected the bad news.
B. I need to return to work as soon as possible.
C. Suddenly I realized I was late for a meeting.
D. For the time being I can manage on my own.
28. Tener prisa:
A. I'm in a hurry to get to work.
B. Don't worry about getting me the test results.
C. The customers are always glad to leave.
D. My co-worker always works very fast.
29. Dar principio a:
A. I knew it all along but didn't say anything.
B. The conference was opened with the national anthem.
C. At first I felt overwhelmed by all the information.
D. In principle it's true but not necessarily workable.
Page 5 of 9
30. No poder menos de:
A. He exerted himself for all he was worth.
B. He can't go on pretending he's not in pain when it's obvious.
C. I can't stand the sight of people crying.
D. She can't help worrying about her job.
31. Abrirse paso:
A. Set the pace and others will follow.
B. Take one step at a time.
C. He made his way through graduate school on his own.
D. Watch your step along the way.
32. No hay que darle vueltas:
A. In order to get it you've got to get around him.
B. Without a question he is the fairest boss.
0. There's no use talking about it.
D. He started back to the office.
33. En su vida:
A. Never in my life have I had it this easy.
B. In a single lifetime you can't do much.
C. During his lifetime he worked a lot.
D. He earns his living by doing consulting work.
34. El viaje de ida y vuelta:
A. The big bosses took a trip to Sacramento.
B. The round trip to Sacramento took several hours.
C. Tomorrow we're leaving on a trip to San Diego.
D. A few of the employees here are on a business trip.
35. Tomar a mal:
A. They took me for a sucker for the last time.
B. He didn't take the trouble to clarify what he meant.
C. He took it upon himself now he has to live with the consequences.
D. I was only kidding but he took it amiss.
�"� Page 6 of 9
Logical Responses --�
Instrucciones--For each problem below a certain situation is suggested. Select the BEST
response according to the information given in each situation.
36. Hernando IlegO a Ia ventanilla y le dijo a Ia taquillera:
A. ,A como me da los tacos?
B. Dos boletos para la tarde.
C. Habra treinta minutos de demora.
D. ,Es aqui donde para el autobus numero treinta y cuatro?
37. Estoy en casa de mi amigo; hace mucho calor, y por eso digo:
A. ,Me puedo poner el abrigo?
B. Enciende la calefacciOn, por favor.
C. ,No podriamos abrir una ventana?
D. Apaga la luz, por favor.
38. El joven cantor terming su programa con gran exito, pero los aficionados seguian
aplaudiendo y como no queria cantar más, dijo:
A. Me despido diciendoles que son ustedes muy amables.
B. El artista no es de aqui.
C. No dejen de aplaudir.
D. Como me encantan los programas!
39. Le pregunte cuanto costaba todo y me respondiO:
A. A las cinco.
B. Doce cincuenta.
C. En cuanto me pague.
D. Se lo voy a envolver.
40. A Elena le gustaba el traje nuevo de su marido, y le dijo:
A. iMira bien de nuevo!
iQue elegante.estas!
C. iQue calor hace!
D. iQuefeoteyes!
Page 7 of 9
41. Vi que mi hijito se asomaba a Ia ventana. Temiendo que se cayera, le grite:
A. iAbre la ventana!
B. iCuanto frio hace!
C. iTen cuidado!
D. iOjala que to caigas!
42. Roberto le presto el libro a Carlos hace tiempo y ahora lo necesita. Le pregunta:
A. ,Cuando regresares?
B. ,Me lo puedes devolver pronto?
C. ,Por que no me Ilevas a Ia escuela?
D. ,Me envuelves el libro pronto?
43. Un hombre le ha quitado la bolsa a una senora, y por eso ella grita:
A. i Robame!
B. iAdelante!
C. i Fuera!
D. iLadron!
44. El dejo su abrigo en el teatro. Regreso y pregunto:
A. el,Cuanto vale?
B. ,Alguien lo ha encontrado?
C. e,Puedo usar el telefono?
D. ,Cuando sali del teatro?
45. Cuando los otos viajeros ofrecieron compartir su merienda con Carlos, este
respondio:
A. Gracias, por eso estan Uds. tan gordos.
B. No gracias, no quiero viajar.
C. Gracias, que se aprovechen.
D. Gracias, porque no me acostumbro a comer a solas.
Page 8 of 9
Instrucciones: Below are incomplete statements followed by response options. Select ,...�
the most appropriate response that completes each statement.
46. Paco entrO en el comedor con la bandeja Ilena de pasteles y se puso a ...
A. barrer el piso.
B. comer la bandeja.
C. fregar la vajilla.
D. servir la merienda.
47. La senora que tenia un fuerte dolor de cabeza pidiO ...
A. una aspirina.
B. un psicOlogo.
C. una vitamina.
D. una porciOn grande de tacos.
48. La familia era rica y vivia muy comodamente a causa de sus ...
A. rinones.
B. riquezas.
C. rigores.
D. rincones. ...�
49. Los hijos del senor Martinez pueden permitirse ciertos lujos porque su padre les
dejo una gran ...
A. dueda.
B. herida.
C. herejia.
D. herencia.
E. desgracia.
50. Han caido varias pulgadas de nieve y el campo ...
A. esta nublado.
B. Ilueve con fuerza.
C. esta verde y grande.
D. parece una sabana blanca.
Page 9 of 9
ORAL EXAMINATION SCORING SHEET
In order to pass the oral phase of the bilingual examination and qualify for premium bilingual pay, the
employee must attain a score of 18 points(72%)or better. Points are deducted for: lack of knowledge of
vocabulary;unclear,vague,inadequate,misleading responses;uncertain of vocabulary;incorrect vocabulary
relying too much on English. The candidate should be able to express ideas with fluency while responding
to situations in which they will be expected to translate.
Name of Candidate:
Classification:
Department/Division:
Date of Exam: Time of Exam:
1. INTRODUCTION(5 points) TOTAL:
O lack of knowledge of vocabulary
❑ unclear,vague,inadequate,misleading responses
O uncertain of vocabulary
O incorrect vocabulary relying too much on English
2. PROBLEM(5 points) TOTAL:
O lack of knowledge of vocabulary
❑ unclear,vague,inadequate,misleading responses
O uncertain of vocabulary
O incorrect vocabulary relying too much on English
3. PROBLEM(5 points) TOTAL:
O lack of knowledge of vocabulary
O unclear,vague,inadequate,misleading responses
O uncertain of vocabulary
O incorrect vocabulary relying too much on English
4. PROBLEM(5 points) TOTAL:
O lack of knowledge of vocabulary
O unclear,vague,inadequate,misleading responses
U uncertain of vocabulary
O incorrect vocabulary relying too much on English
5. SUMMARY--overall statement as to the usefulness of candidate's bilingual abilities in serving
the City.
i5 points) TOTAL:
❑ lack of knowledge of vocabulary
O unclear,vague,inadequate,misleading responses
O uncertain of vocabulary
O incorrect vocabulary relying too much on English
I certify that I have examined the above-named candidate to determine his/her ability to speak the Spanish
Language within the context of the position held with the City. I have determined that the candidate
obtained the following score:
TOTAL POINTS PERCENTAGE SCORE U PASS ❑ NO PASS
`""' Examiner Signature,Adolph Solis,City Clerk /Date