If you’re an aspiring teacher, you may find yourself taking at least one Praxis® test on the way to your education career. Developed by the global not-for-profit Educational Testing Service (ETS), Praxis® tests measure individuals’ teaching skills and are key to deciding whether these individuals are ready to become licensed teachers. University of Phoenix offers various teacher education programs that meet the licensure needs of most states and can prepare students to sit a Praxis® test.
Here, we’ll explore who can take Praxis® tests, the different types of tests, what they involve and what resources candidates can access to prepare for them.
Who Can Take Praxis® Tests?
Aside from education majors, non-education majors who are currently enrolled in a bachelor’s program on another subject can take the tests, too. However, these students need to ensure they’re well-equipped with the required knowledge.
It’s worth noting that the necessary tests and minimum score requirements are not the same across states, and not all states work with the Praxis® system. The tests an individual should take varies depending on their state and the subject and grade they are hoping to teach. As such, some further research into the teacher licensing requirements of different states is essential. Also, candidates must fund the tests themselves and should plan their funding accordingly.
What Are the Three Kinds of Praxis® Test?
There are three main categories of Praxis® tests for those pursuing teaching careers.
Praxis® Core tests involve three exams, each on a separate subject of reading, writing and math. The licensing boards of most states require aspiring educators to sit all of these fundamental exams.
Praxis® Subject tests measure how well a teacher knows their specific subject matter. There are over 90 subject tests that align with the subjects taught at K-12 level and that test an individual’s subject-specific and general teaching skills.
Praxis® Content Knowledge for Teaching (CKT) tests evaluate candidates pursuing a general elementary school license. They help determine an individual’s knowledge in science, math, social studies, reading and language and how skilled they are at applying that knowledge to real-world classroom situations.
There are many more Praxis® tests for non-teacher educational careers, such as school administrators, teacher aides, guidance counselors and librarians, to name a few.
What Are the Three Components of the Praxis® Core Test?
Most state licensing boards require teachers in training to sit for a Praxis® Core test and are flexible in that candidates can choose whether to sit the exam in one go or spread it across a few days. U.S. and Canadian candidates can even choose to take the exam at home, though they are also eligible to take the test at designated testing centers.
There are three components to the Praxis® Core test.
Reading: This section of the test requires an understanding of how to analyze different texts. There are 56 multiple-choice and alternate-response questions, and candidates must answer these in 85 minutes.
Mathematics: The math section of the test allows candidates to use a calculator and takes 90 minutes to complete. There are 56 multiple-choice and numeric-entry questions to answer.
Writing: This segment of the test requires candidates to write two essays, one demonstrating their argumentative skills and the other their informative writing skills. They must also answer 40 multiple-choice questions relating to editing techniques. Candidates have 60 minutes to complete the essays and 40 minutes to complete the questions.
How Can Aspiring Teachers Prepare for Praxis® Tests?
A solid knowledge base in their chosen educational and subject matter is essential for candidates who wish to achieve at least the minimum score requirement in a Praxis® test. The surest way to achieve this is through an educational degree such as those provided by University of Phoenix.
Candidates may also prepare for Praxis® tests with the help of various resources and practice exams:
Complimentary Praxis® test preparation materials provided by ETS
Free, personalized Core test practice plans from Khan Academy, designed in association with ETS
Free Praxis® study guides from Teachers Test Prep
Study.com’s collection of over 70 Praxis® study guides and courses and over 32,000 practice questions, which are available to prospective candidates, although some require a paid membership
Practice tests from Exam Edge, Mometrix, and Teachers Test Prep
ETS offers testing accommodations for candidates who have legally recognized disabilities or special needs under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA). The organization also offers financial support in the shape of a limited number of fee waivers that allow eligible candidates to waive the test fees for up to three Praxis® Core tests or one Praxis® Subject test.
Learn more about University of Phoenix’s education degree programs.
About University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix is advancing the educational goals of adult and nontraditional learners and helping students navigate the career options and degrees that best suit their interests. The University offers a wide range of degree programs through which students can pursue a variety of careers including educational degree programs for aspiring educators.
Due to the online classes, flexible program dates and numerous scholarship opportunities available through University of Phoenix, it’s possible for anyone to earn the degree they need. Additionally, the University’s Career Services for Life® commitment to active students and graduates provides free resources to help their journey through the world of work. These services include resume and interview support, career guidance and education and networking opportunities.
