The Praxis testing series is administered by ETS (Educational Testing Services) to individuals seeking professional teacher certification. There are two categories of Praxis tests. First, there is the Praxis I, which measures basic academic skills. Then, there are the more specialized Praxis II tests for subject content and specialized material. Both categories feature exams that must be completed in English, with possible extension time for non-native English speakers.
Who Should Take the Praxis?
Aspiring teachers and other education professionals often need to take several Praxis examinations. Nearly all states require some Praxis endorsement for teacher certification. In fact, the Praxis is even used by the Department of Defense schools and the National Association of School Psychologists.
Each state or organization also sets its own standard for a passing score. To make registering for the tests easier, ETS lists all the various states’ requirements on its websites. Additionally, some colleges and universities ask students to take the Praxis before admitting them into a teacher-prep program.
The Praxis I: PPST
The Praxis I exam, or Pre-Professional Skills Test (PPST), assesses mathematics, reading, and writing abilities. It combines both multiple-choice content questions and open-ended essay responses into a multi-part examination. Unlike some other standardized tests, there is no penalty for wrong answers. So, test takers should answer every question on the multiple choice segment.
Recently, ETS began offering its Praxis I tests in an electronic format. This means it can be taken at a designated computer station and test takers receive immediate feedback on their multiple-choice performance. The electronic format is offered more frequently, usually by request, and can be a more convenient option for many people. You can either take the entire test in one sitting, which lasts 4.5 hours, or divide the exam into 2-hour sessions on separate days.
For those who don’t like computer testing, ETS is still offering paper-based exams on pre-scheduled dates, which usually coincide with Praxis II testing. The paper examination takes 3 hours to complete and can be done in a single session or separate sittings. Registration for the paper examination can be done online, whereas the computer-based test requires telephone registration.
The Praxis II Exams
Praxis II tests are offered for seemingly every subject a school might offer. Additionally, they are distinct tests for specific grade levels. in other words, the test for middle school social studies is not the same as the test for high school social studies. Praxis II exams generally last for two hours and must be taken on paper. They are offered several times each year at designated locations, and test takers can generally take two tests per session. Test dates are always held on Saturdays, but accommodations can be made for Monday testing for those with religious conflicts.
Registering for the Praxis
Upon registering for any of the Praxis exams, test takers must pay a number of fees to ETS. This includes a $50 registration fee that need only be submitted once per testing year. Additional fees for each test vary, but the entire schedule of payments is clearly outlines on the Praxis website.
On average, the Praxis I will run $130 for a complete exam and the Praxis II tests will run $65 to $90 each. There are also additional surcharges for select circumstances. So, it is important for test takers to thoroughly read all information before making a payment.
The Praxis tests are extremely accommodating for those with disabilities as outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. As long as documentation is provided, test takers can receive additional time, extra breaks, a writing assistant, Braille test, and other necessary aides. However, anyone applying for assistance needs to register by mail, which can take more time to process.
Preparing for the Praxis
Study methods for the Praxis varies depending on the test a person is taking. However, most exams are designed to be easily passable by anyone enrolled in a corresponding teacher/counselor preparatory program. For test takers wishing additional help, ETS does offer considerable preparation materials both in print and online. They also provide a free outline of the material covered by each exam.
 |
