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The Praxis® Study Companion

General Science:
Content Knowledge
5435

www
...
org/praxis

Welcome to the Praxis® Study Companion

Welcome to The Praxis®Study Companion
Prepare to Show What You Know
You have been working to acquire the knowledge and skills you need for your teaching career
...

Using The Praxis Series® Study Companion is a smart way to prepare for the test so you can do your best on test
day
...

The Study Companion contains practical information and helpful tools, including:
•  n overview of the Praxis tests
A
•  pecific information on the Praxis test you are taking
S
•  template study plan
A
• Study topics
•  ractice questions and explanations of correct answers
P
•  est-taking tips and strategies
T
•  requently asked questions
F
•  inks to more detailed information
L
So where should you start? Begin by reviewing this guide in its entirety and note those sections that you need
to revisit
...

Keep in mind that study habits are individual
...
Some people study better on their own, while others prefer a group dynamic
...
So use this guide to develop the
approach that works best for you
...
Good luck!

Know What to Expect
Which tests should I take?
Each state or agency that uses the Praxis tests sets its own requirements for which test or tests you must take for
the teaching area you wish to pursue
...
ets
...


How are the Praxis tests given?
Praxis tests are given on computer
...


The Praxis® Study Companion

2

Welcome to the Praxis® Study Companion

What should I expect when taking the test on computer?
When taking the test on computer, you can expect to be asked to provide proper identification at the test
center
...
) before the testing time
begins
...


Where and when are the Praxis tests offered?
You can select the test center that is most convenient for you
...

Testing schedules may differ, so see the Praxis Web site for more detailed test registration information at www
...
org/praxis/register
...
Learn About Your Test
...
Familiarize Yourself with Test Questions
...
Practice with Sample Test Questions
...
Determine Your Strategy for Success
...
Develop Your Study Plan
...
Review Study Topics
...
Review Smart Tips for Success
...
Check on Testing Accommodations
...
Do Your Best on Test Day
...
Understand Your Scores
...
48

The Praxis® Study Companion

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Step 1: Learn About Your Test

1
...
5 hours

Number of Questions 135
Format

Selected-response questions

Test Delivery

Computer delivered



Content Categories


Approximate Approximate
Number of
Percentage of
Questions Examination


I
...
Physical Science
III
...
Earth and Space Science

27

20%

V
...
Examinees have typically completed or
nearly completed a bachelor’s degree program with appropriate coursework in science and education
...

The development of the test questions and the construction of the test reflect the National Science Education
Standards (NSES) and the National Science Teacher Association (NSTA) standards and recognize that there
are conceptual and procedural schemes that unify the various scientific disciplines
...
Insofar as possible, then, the test questions will have the primary objective of
evaluating the content areas by using questions that focus on conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and
problem solving in science
...

The 135 selected-response questions include concepts, terms, phenomena, methods, applications, data analysis,
and problem solving in science, and include an understanding of the impact of science and technology on the
environment and human affairs
...

Examinees will not need to use calculators in taking
this test
...
Whenever
necessary, additional values of physical constants are
included with the text of a question
...
Interpret and Draw Conclusions from Data

Presented in Tables, Graphs, Maps, and
Charts
1
...
Relationships between variables
3
...
Drawing valid conclusions based on the data

D
...
Appropriate and safe use of materials (e
...
,
chemicals, lab specimens)

Test specifications describe the knowledge and
skills measured by the test
...

Review Study Topics" on page 30
...
Safe disposal of materials

I
...
Methods of Scientific Inquiry and Design
1
...
Forming and testing hypotheses
3
...
Experimental design, including independent
and dependent variables, controls, and sources
of error
5
...
Nature of scientific knowledge

a
...
consistent with evidence
c
...
includes unifying concepts and processes
(e
...
, systems, models, constancy and
change, equilibrium, form and function)


B
...
Common units of measurement (metric and
English) including unit conversion and prefixes
such as milli and kilo
2
...
Organization and presentation of data
4
...
Appropriate storage
4
...
g
...
How to Use Standard Equipment in the
Laboratory and the Field
1
...
g
...
Appropriate storage (e
...
, pH probes stored in
appropriate buffer solution, dissection
equipment, glassware)
3
...
g
...
Preparation for classroom or field use (e
...
,
prelaboratory setup, classroom
demonstrations, field research)

F
...
Location and use of standard safety equipment
(e
...
, eyewash, shower)
2
...
Appropriate apparel and conduct in the
laboratory (e
...
, wearing goggles)
4
...
g
...
Major Historical Developments of Science
1
...
Major developments in science (e
...
, atomic
theory, plate tectonics)
3
...
g
...
Physical Science
A
...
Structure of matter
a
...
Atoms, molecules, and ions
c
...
Basic structure of the atom
a
...
Atomic structure including nucleus,
electrons, protons, and neutrons
c
...
Electron arrangements (e
...
, valence
electrons)
3
...
Radioisotopes
b
...
Characteristics of alpha particles, beta
particles, and gamma radiation
d
...
Basic concepts and relationships involving
energy and matter
a
...
Entropy changes (second law of
thermodynamics)
c
...
Kinetic and potential energy
e
...
Differences between chemical and physical
properties/changes
g
...
Transfer of thermal energy and its basic
measurement
–– conduction, convection, and radiation
–– specific heat capacity
–– calorimetry (e
...
, predict heat transfer in
various systems)

i
...
g
...
Chemistry
1
...
Periodic table of the elements
–– elements arranged in groups and periods
–– atomic number, atomic mass, and isotopic
abundance
–– symbols of the elements
–– trends in physical properties based on
position of elements on the periodic table
(e
...
, atomic radius, ionization energy)
–– trends in chemical reactivity based on
position of elements on the periodic table
(e
...
, metals, nonmetals, noble gases)
b
...
g
...
g
...
g
...
Chemical nomenclature, composition, and
bonding
a
...
g
...
Types of chemical bonding
–– covalent and ionic
c
...
Molar mass and percent composition

The Praxis® Study Companion

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Step 1: Learn About Your Test

3
...
Basic concepts involved in chemical
reactions
–– use and balance equations of simple
chemical reactions
• balance equations
• simple stoichiometric calculations based
on balanced equations

–– endothermic and exothermic reactions
–– factors that affect reaction rates (e
...
,
concentration, temperature, pressure,
catalysts/enzymes, activation energy)
–– factors that affect reaction equilibrium
(e
...
, Le Châtelier’s principle)
–– types of reactions (e
...
, combustion, single
or double replacement)
–– simple oxidation-reduction reactions

4
...
Simple acid-base chemistry
–– chemical and physical properties of acids
and bases
–– pH scale
–– neutralization
–– acid-base indicators (e
...
, phenolphthalein,
pH paper, litmus paper)
5
...
Different types of solutions
–– dilute and concentrated
–– saturated, unsaturated, supersaturated
–– solvent and solute
–– concentration terms (e
...
, molarity, parts
per million (ppm))
–– preparation of solutions of varying
concentrations
b
...
g
...
nonpolar solvents and solutes
–– dissociation of ionic compounds such as
salts in water (e
...
, ionization, electrolytes)
–– precipitation
–– freezing point depression

C
...
Mechanics
a
...
Newton’s three laws of motion
–– First law: inertia
–– Second law: F = ma (i
...
, net force, mass,
and acceleration)
–– Third law: action-reaction forces
c
...
Analysis of motion and forces
–– projectile motion
–– inclined planes
–– friction
–– collisions (e
...
, elastic, inelastic) and
conservation of linear momentum
–– circular motion (e
...
, centripetal
acceleration, centripetal force)
–– center of mass
–– periodic motion (e
...
, pendulums,
oscillating springs, planetary orbits,
satellites)
–– conservation of energy
–– work, energy, and power
–– basic fluid mechanics (e
...
, buoyancy,
density, pressure)
e
...
g
...
Electricity and magnetism
a
...
Basic electrical concepts
–– DC and AC current
–– current, resistance, voltage, and power
–– Ohm’s law
–– analyze basic series and parallel circuits
–– voltage sources (e
...
, batteries, generators)

The Praxis® Study Companion

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Step 1: Learn About Your Test

c
...
g
...
Major features of common animal cell types

(e
...
, blood cells, muscle, nerve, epithelial,
gamete)
5
...
Key Aspects of Cell Reproduction and
Division

3
...
Electromagnetic spectrum
–– nature of light (e
...
, wave properties,
photons)
–– visible spectrum and color
–– electromagnetic spectrum (e
...
, ultraviolet,
microwave, gamma)

1
...
Mitosis
3
...
Cytokinesis

b
...
g
...
Basic wave phenomena
–– reflection, refraction, diffraction, and
dispersion
–– absorption and transmission
–– interference, scattering, and polarization
–– total internal reflection
–– Doppler effect (e
...
, apparent frequency,
moving source or observer, red/blue shift)
d
...
g
...
Sound
–– pitch/frequency and loudness/intensity
–– sound wave production, air vibrations, and
resonance (e
...
, tuning forks)
–– application of the Doppler effect to sound

C
...
Cellular respiration
2
...
Basic Genetics
1
...
Chromosomes, genes, alleles
3
...
Mendelian inheritance (e
...
, genotype,

phenotype, use of Punnett squares,
pedigrees)
5
...


1
...
g
...
Isolation mechanisms and speciation
3
...
g
...


The Praxis® Study Companion

Hierarchical Classification Scheme

1
...
g
...
Structure and function of animal and plant

cell organelles
3
...
Mechanisms of evolution (e
...
, natural
selection)

III
...
Basic Structure and Function of Cells and
Their Organelles

3
...
g
...
Characteristics of bacteria, animals, plants,
fungi, and protists

9

Step 1: Learn About Your Test

G
...
Earth and Space Science
A
...
Characteristics of vascular and nonvascular
plants


2
...
g
...
Types and basic characteristics of rocks and
minerals and their formation processes
a
...
Characteristics of rocks and their formation
processes (i
...
, sedimentary, igneous, and
metamorphic rock)
c
...
g
...
Asexual (budding) and sexual reproduction
(flowers, fruit, seeds, spores)
4
...
g
...
Uptake and transport of nutrients and water

6
...
g
...
Basic Anatomy and Physiology of
Animals, including the Human Body

1
...
Exchange with the environment (e
...
,
respiratory, excretory, and digestive systems)

3
...
g
...
Control systems (e
...
, nervous and endocrine
systems)


5
...
g
...
Reproduction and development



7
...
g
...


Key Aspects of Ecology

1
...
growth curves and carrying capacity
b
...
g
...
intraspecific relationships (e
...
, mating
systems, social systems, competition)
2
...
niche
b
...
interspecific relationships (e
...
, predatorprey, parasitism)




2
...
Erosion and deposition (e
...
, agents of
erosion)
b
...
Characteristics of soil (e
...
, types, soil profile)
d
...
Runoff and infiltration
3
...
Earth’s layers (e
...
, lithosphere, mantle, core)
b
...
Geographical features (e
...
, mountains,
plateaus, mid-ocean ridges)
d
...
Plate tectonics theory and evidence
–– folding and faulting (e
...
, plate
boundaries)
–– continental drift, seafloor spreading,
magnetic reversals
–– characteristics of volcanoes (e
...
,
eruptions, lava, gases, hot spots)
–– characteristics of earthquakes (e
...
,
epicenters, faults, tsunamis)
–– seismic waves and triangulation
4
...
Evaporation and condensation
b
...
Runoff and infiltration
d
...
Ecosystems
a
...
stability and disturbances (e
...
, glaciation,
climate change, succession)
c
...
g
...
biogeochemical cycles (e
...
, water, nitrogen,
and carbon cycles, biotic/abiotic interaction)

The Praxis® Study Companion

10

Step 1: Learn About Your Test

B
...
Historical geology
a
...
Basic principles of relative age dating (e
...
,
superposition, stratigraphic correlation, fossil
succession)
c
...
Geologic time scale (e
...
, age of Earth, scope
of time)
e
...
g
...
Earth’s Bodies of Water

1
...
Distribution and location of Earth’s water
b
...
Coastline topography and topography of
ocean floor
d
...
Estuaries and barrier islands
f
...
Polar ice, icebergs, and glaciers
h
...
Streams, rivers, and river deltas
j
...
Geysers and springs
l
...
g
...
Meteorology and Climate

1
...
Layers (e
...
, stratosphere)
b
...
g
...
Atmospheric pressure and temperature
2
...
Relative humidity
b
...
Wind (e
...
, how it is generated and modified)
d
...
Types of precipitation (e
...
, hail, rain)
f
...
g
...
Development and movement of weather
patterns

The Praxis® Study Companion

3
...
Effects of latitude, geographical location,
and elevation (e
...
, mountains and oceans)
b
...
g
...
Effects of ocean circulation
d
...
g
...
Effect of the tilt of Earth’s axis on seasons
f
...
g
...
El Niño, La Niña
E
...
Major features of the solar system
a
...
Laws of motion (e
...
, gravitation, planetary
orbits, satellites)
c
...
Characteristics of asteroids, meteoroids,
comets, and dwarf/minor planets
e
...
Interactions of the Earth-Moon-Sun system
a
...
Effect on seasons
c
...
Effect on tides
e
...
Time zones
g
...
Major features of the universe
a
...
g
...
Characteristics of stars and their life cycles
–– life cycle of star, e
...
, white dwarf, red
giant, supernova, nebulae, black holes
–– color, temperature, apparent brightness,
absolute brightness, luminosity
–– Hertzsprung-Russell diagrams
c
...
Theories about the origin of the universe
(e
...
, Big Bang)
4
...
Remote sensing devices (e
...
, satellites,
space probes, telescopes, spectral analysis)
b
...
Applications of Science and Technology
in Daily Life

V
...
Impact of Science and Technology on the
Environment and Society

1
...
g
...
Climate change and greenhouse gases
3
...
Reservoirs and levees

1
...
Communication (e
...
, wireless devices, GPS,
satellites)



4
...
Depletion of aquifers
6
...
Loss of biodiversity

3
...
g
...
Common agricultural practices (e
...
,
genetically modified crops, use of herbicides
and insecticides)

8
...
DNA evidence in criminal investigations

9
...
g
...
Nanotechnology
D
...
Recycling


11
...
g
...
Major Issues associated with Energy
Production and the Management of
Natural Resources

1
...
Nutrition, disease, and medicine (e
...
,
vitamins, viruses, vaccines)


2
...
g
...
Medical technologies (e
...
, medical imaging,

X-rays, radiation therapy)

2
...
Pros and cons of power generation based on
various resources including fossil and
nuclear fuel, hydropower, wind power, solar
power, geothermal power, and alternative
energy sources




4
...
g
...
 amiliarize Yourself with Test Questions
F
Become comfortable with the types of questions you’ll find on the Praxis tests
The Praxis Series assessments include a variety of question types: constructed response (for which you write a
response of your own); selected response, for which you select one or more answers from a list of choices or
make another kind of selection (e
...
, by clicking on a sentence in a text or by clicking on part of a graphic); and
numeric entry, for which you enter a numeric value in an answer field
...
If not, familiarize yourself with them so you don’t spend time
during the test figuring out how to answer them
...
If you see a format you are not familiar with, read the directions carefully
...

For most questions, you respond by clicking an oval to select a single answer from a list of options
...

• Typing in an entry box
...

Some questions may have more than one place to enter a response
...
You may be asked to click check boxes instead of an oval when more than one
choice within a set of answers can be selected
...
In some questions, you will select your answers by clicking on a location (or
locations) on a graphic such as a map or chart, as opposed to choosing your answer from a list
...
In questions with reading passages, you may be asked to choose your answers by
clicking on a sentence (or sentences) within the reading passage
...
You may be asked to select answers
from a list of options and drag your answers to the appropriate location in a table, paragraph of text or
graphic
...
You may be asked to choose answers by selecting options
from a drop-down menu (e
...
, to complete a sentence)
...

Perhaps the best way to understand computer-delivered questions is to view the Computer-delivered Testing
Demonstration on the Praxis Web site to learn how a computer-delivered test works and see examples of
some types of questions you may encounter
...
” Take a look at this example:
Which of the following is a flavor made from beans?
(A)  trawberry
S
(B)  herry
C
(C) Vanilla
(D)  int
M

How would you answer this question?
All of the answer choices are flavors
...

Try following these steps to select the correct answer
...
You may know that chocolate and coffee are also flavors made

from beans, but they are not listed
...

2) Eliminate incorrect answers
...
That leaves vanilla as the only possible answer
...
You can substitute “vanilla” for the phrase “which of the following” and turn the

question into this statement: “Vanilla is a flavor made from beans
...
If you’re still uncertain, try substituting the other choices to see if they make sense
...


Try a more challenging example
The vanilla bean question is pretty straightforward, but you’ll find that more challenging questions have a
similar structure
...
” This phrase helps you
determine that your answer will be a “relationship of ideas” from the choices provided
...

Sometimes it helps to put the question in your own words
...


The Praxis® Study Companion

14

Step 2: Familiarize Yourself with Test Questions

QUICK TIP: Don’t be intimidated by words you may not understand
...
” Read carefully to understand the question and look for an answer that fits
...
So slow down, and
use what you know
...
You must be very careful because it is easy
to forget that you are selecting the negative
...


How to approach questions about graphs, tables, or reading passages
When answering questions about graphs, tables, or reading passages, provide only the information that the
questions ask for
...
In the case of a long reading passage, you might want to go ahead and read the passage first,
noting places you think are important, and then answer the questions
...
So read the questions carefully
...
Tests may
include audio and video components, such as a movie clip or animation, instead of a map or reading passage
...

Tests may also include interactive questions
...
If you see a format you are
not familiar with, read the directions carefully
...


QUICK TIP: Don’t make the questions more difficult than they are
...

There are no trick questions on Praxis tests
...


Understanding Constructed-Response Questions
Constructed-response questions require you to demonstrate your knowledge in a subject area by creating
your own response to particular topics
...

For example, an essay question might present you with a topic and ask you to discuss the extent to which you
agree or disagree with the opinion stated
...

Take a look at a few sample essay topics:
•  Celebrities have a tremendous influence on the young, and for that reason, they have a responsibility to
“
act as role models
...
They have become too pervasive
...
”
• Advances in computer technology have made the classroom unnecessary, since students and teachers
“
are able to communicate with one another from computer terminals at home or at work
...
Analyze what each part of the question is asking you to do
...

2)  nswer the question completely
...
Otherwise, no matter how well you write, you will
not be awarded full credit
...
Do not change the question or challenge the basis of the
A
question
...

4)  ive a thorough and detailed response
...
However, your response should be straightforward and not filled
with unnecessary information
...
Check that you have written what you thought you wrote
...


QUICK TIP: You may find that it helps to take notes on scratch paper so that you don’t miss any details
...

For tests that have constructed-response questions, more detailed information can be found in “1
...


The Praxis® Study Companion

16

Step 3: Practice with Sample Test Questions

3
...
They are not, however, representative of the entire
scope of the test in either content or difficulty
...


Directions: Each of the questions or statements below is

In an experiment to study the effect of a new
fertilizer on the growth of tall hybrid corn and
dwarf hybrid corn, from immediately after
germination to 10 days of growth, the data
below were obtained
...


followed by four suggested answers or completions
...


1
...
A piece of paper that appears blue in sunlight
is illuminated solely by a red light that is
passed through a green filter
...
What quantity of oxygen, O2, contains very
nearly the same number of molecules as
36
...
0 grams
(B) 32
...
0 grams
(D) 8
...
Which of the following is the most reasonable
conclusion that can be drawn from the data
above?
(A) The new fertilizer influences the growth
of both corn varieties tested
(B) The new fertilizer causes faster growth
rate for both varieties than do other
fertilizers
(C) The new fertilizer improves the root
system of the tall hybrid to a greater
extent than it does that of the dwarf
hybrid
(D) The new fertilizer is effective in producing
faster growth for both varieties for the
first 10 days only

The Praxis® Study Companion

17

Step 3: Practice with Sample Test Questions

5
...
What is the probability that the
couple’s first child will be a carrier?
(A) 0
...
25
(C) 0
...
0
6
...
production of pollen
(B) Vascular cambium
...
transport of sugars
(D) Guard cell
...
Scientists believe that a worldwide
catastrophic event occurred during the late
Cretaceous period and that this event likely
caused which of the following?

9
...
Which of the following is most likely to cause
a rise in the average temperature of Earth’s
atmosphere in the future?
(A) Atomic warfare
(B) CO2 from fossil fuels
(C) Dust clouds from volcanoes
(D) Depletion of Earth’s ozone layer
11
...
Which of the following is consistent

with this symbol?
(A) 197 neutrons in the nucleus
(B) 79 neutrons in the nucleus

(A) The movement of aquatic animals onto
land

(C) 118 protons in the nucleus of each of its
atoms

(B) The sudden demise of the dinosaurs

(D) 79 electrons in a neutral atom

(C) The emergence of Homo sapiens on the
grasslands of Africa
(D) The first appearance of mammals
8
...
Which of the following statements is correct
about a trophic structure in which a
leaf-eating grasshopper is eaten by a frog,
which in turn is eaten by a snake?
(A) The frog is a herbivore
...

(C) The grasshopper is a primary consumer
...

13
...
Which of the following graphs illustrates the
operation of Ohm’s law for a conductor that
has constant resistance?
(A) (B)

19
...
Polarized sunglasses are used to cut glare
from sunlight reflected at a glancing angle off
cars, water, and other surfaces
...
Which of the following elements is a metal?
(A) S
(B) Se

(D) Snell’s law
21
...
How many moles of HCl must be added to
sufficient water to form 3 liters of a 2 M HCl
solution?
(A) 1 mol
(B) 2 mol
(C) 3 mol
(D) 6 mol

(C) Sunspots
(D) Corona
22
...
Voltage
II
...
When a gas turns into a liquid, the process is
called

III
...
When cool air flows from a high mountain
region to a region of lower elevation, the air
will
(A) increase in moisture content
(B) condense, forming large amounts of dew
(C) undergo adiabatic warming
(D) undergo adiabatic cooling

The Praxis® Study Companion

19

Step 3: Practice with Sample Test Questions

23
...
010 cm
...
4 cm,
1
...
9 cm
...
Which of the following items will be attracted
to the north pole of a permanent magnet by a
magnetic force?
(A) The north pole of another permanent
magnet

(A) They are precise and accurate
...


(C) A positively charged glass rod

(C) The are accurate but not precise
...


The Praxis® Study Companion

20

Step 3: Practice with Sample Test Questions

Answers to Sample Questions
1
...
Mercury(II) oxide breaks
down on heating to metallic mercury and oxygen
...

2
...
The green filter
absorbs all colors except green, which it passes
...
The paper will not be
illuminated, and so it will appear black, regardless
of its initial color
...
  The correct answer is (A)
...
A 2-mole sample of O2
contains the same number of molecules as does
2 moles of any other substance
...
0 grams = 64
...

4
...
The graphs indicate
more rapid growth for the treated samples than for
the untreated samples in both corn varieties
...

5
...
One parent will have
the genotype CC and the other parent will have
the genotype Cc
...
Thus, 50
percent of the offspring will be homozygous
dominant and 50 percent will be heterozygous
and carriers
...
  The correct answer is (D)
...

Water exits freely through the stomata when they
are open
...
  The correct answer is (B)
...

Recent chemical evidence points to a catastrophic
event, such as a large impact, occurring at that
time
...
  The correct answer is (A)
...


9
...
Energy is lost as
matter is transferred from one trophic level to
another
...
Therefore, (A), (C), and
(D) are incorrect because these foods are derived
from the primary producers (plants) only
...
  The correct answer is (B)
...
Atomic warfare
would more likely result in a “nuclear winter
...
The depletion of the
ozone layer will let more ultraviolet radiation
through the atmosphere but in itself should not
cause warming
...
  The correct answer is (D)
...

Bottom number: atomic number = the number of
protons in the nucleus of each of its atoms
...
In a neutral
atom, the number of electrons is equal to the
number of protons, 79 in this case
...
  The correct answer is (C)
...

13
...
Earthquakes are the
abrupt release of energy that occurs when a rock
under stress fractures and displacement occurs
...
  The correct answer is (C)
...

15
...
The element Ga is a
metal
...

16
...
A concentration of
2 M means there are 2 moles of HCl per liter of
water
...

17
...
When a gas turns into
a liquid, the process is called condensation
...
  The correct answer is (C)
...

Adiabatic warming occurs as the pressure of the air
is increased as it descends
...
  The correct answer is (B)
...
Mollusks (e
...
, clams
and mussels) and echinoderms (e
...
, sea stars and
sea urchins) are invertebrates that lack a vertebral
column and dorsal nerve cord
...
  The correct answer is (A)
...
Polarized sunglasses are
constructed to block this reflected light and to
transmit light polarized only in the vertical
direction
...
  The correct answer is (D)
...


The Praxis® Study Companion

22
...
The capacitance C of
a parallel plate capacitor decreases as the distance
between the plates increases
...
By the
definition of capacitance, namely C = Q/V, the
voltage V will increase, since C decreases and Q
remains constant
...
  The correct answer is (D)
...
39 cm, 0
...
11 cm
...
The measurements are
also quite different in value from one another (not
repeatable), which means that they are not precise
...
  The correct answer is (B)
...
When iron is brought close to a
permanent magnet, the iron will become
magnetized in such a way as to be attracted to the
permanent magnet
...
Determine Your Strategy for Success
Set clear goals and deadlines so your test preparation is focused and efficient
Effective Praxis test preparation doesn’t just happen
...
Otherwise, you may not feel ready and confident on test day
...

You may have heard that there are several different versions of the same test
...
You may take one
version of the test and your friend may take a different version a few months later
...

You’ll find specific information on the test you’re taking in "1
...

Visit www
...
org/praxis/testprep for information on other Praxis tests
...

Research shows that test takers tend to overestimate their preparedness—this is why some test takers
assume they did well and then find out they did not pass
...
If it has been longer than a few
months since you’ve studied your content area, make a concerted effort to prepare
...

Gathering and organizing your materials for review are critical steps in preparing for the Praxis tests
...
ets
...
Test
preparation materials include sample questions and answers with explanations
...

You can begin to plan and organize your time while you are still collecting materials
...
Here are a few tips:
•  hoose a test date far enough in the future to leave you plenty of preparation time
...
ets
...

•  ork backward from that date to figure out how much time you will need for review
...

S

The Praxis® Study Companion

23

Step 4: Determine Your Strategy for Success

5) Practice explaining the key concepts
...
As a
teacher, you’ll need to be able to explain concepts and processes to students in a clear, understandable
way
...


6) Understand how questions will be scored
...
Understand Your Scores" on page 46
...

A study plan provides a road map to prepare for the Praxis tests
...
Use the study plan template on page
28 to organize your efforts
...
Study groups give members opportunities to ask questions and get detailed
answers
...
As members take turns explaining concepts to one another, everyone
builds self-confidence
...
Because study groups schedule regular meetings, members study in a
more disciplined fashion
...
The group should be large enough so that multiple
people can contribute different kinds of knowledge, but small enough so that it stays focused
...

Here are some ways to use this guide as part of a study group:

• Plan the group’s study program
...
By filling out the first five columns and sharing the worksheets,
everyone will learn more about your group’s mix of abilities and about the resources, such as textbooks, that
members can share with the group
...

• Plan individual group sessions
...
Use the topic headings and
subheadings in the Test at a Glance table on page 5 to select topics, and then select practice questions,
beginning on page 17
...
When it’s your to turn present, prepare something that is

more than a lecture
...
Practicing writing actual
questions can help you better understand the topics covered on the test as well as the types of questions
you will encounter on the test
...


The Praxis® Study Companion

24

Step 4: Determine Your Strategy for Success

• Take a practice test together
...
Remember, complete the practice test using only the time that will be allotted for that test on
your administration day
...
Review the results of the practice test, including the

number of questions answered correctly in each content category
...
Then try to follow the same guidelines that the test
scorers use
...
You’re not doing your study partner(s) any favors by letting them get away with
B
an answer that does not cover all parts of the question adequately
...
Write comments that are as detailed as the comments about the sample responses
...
Writing notes
in the margins of the answer sheet may also help
...
Include comments that point out what your study partner(s) got right
...
For example, each group member might be responsible for rewriting one paragraph of a response in
which someone else did an inadequate job
...
The plan should set goals based on specific topics and skills that you need to learn, and it
should commit you to a realistic set of deadlines for meeting those goals
...


The Praxis® Study Companion

25

Step 5: Develop Your Study Plan

5
...
Use the sample study plan below as a guide
...
Following that is a study plan template that you can fill out to create your own plan
...

Use this worksheet to:
1
...

2
...

3
...

4
...

Praxis Test Name (Test Code): Core Academic Skills for Educators: Reading (5712)
Test Date:
9/15/15

Description
of content

Content covered

How well do
I know the
content?
(scale 1–5)

What
resources do I
have/need for
the content?

Where can I
find the
resources I
need?

Dates I will
study the
content

Date
completed

Key Ideas and Details
Draw inferences and
implications from the
directly stated content
of a reading selection

3

Middle school
English
textbook

College library,
middle school
teacher

7/15/15

7/15/15

Determining Ideas

Identify summaries or
paraphrases of the main
idea or primary purpose
of a reading selection

3

Middle school
English
textbook

College library,
middle school
teacher

7/17/15

7/17/15

Determining Ideas

Identify summaries
or paraphrases of the
supporting ideas and
specific details in a
reading selection

3

Middle and
high school
English
textbook

College library,
middle and
high school
teachers

7/20/15

7/21/15

4

Middle and
high school
English
textbook

College library,
middle and
high school
teachers

7/25/15

7/26/15

3

Middle and
high school
English
textbook,
dictionary

College library,
middle and
high school
teachers

7/25/15

7/27/15

5

High school
textbook,
college course
notes

College library,
course notes,
high school
teacher, college
professor

8/1/15

8/1/15

5

High school
textbook,
college course
notes

College library,
course notes,
high school
teacher, college
professor

8/1/15

8/1/15

Close reading

Craft, Structure, and Language Skills
Interpreting tone

Determine the author’s
attitude toward material
discussed in a reading
selection

Analysis of
structure

Identify key transition
words and phrases in a
reading selection and
how they are used

Analysis of
structure

Identify how a reading
selection is organized
in terms of cause/effect,
compare/contrast,
problem/solution, etc
...
Define Content Areas: List the most important content areas for your test as defined in chapter 1
...
Determine Strengths and Weaknesses: Identify your strengths and weaknesses in each content area
...
Identify Resources: Identify the books, courses, and other resources you plan to use for each content area
...
Study: Create and commit to a schedule that provides for regular study periods
...
Review Study Topics
Detailed study topics with questions for discussion

Using the Study Topics That Follow
The General Science: Content Knowledge test is designed to measure the knowledge and skills necessary for a
beginning teacher
...

Virtually all accredited programs address the topics covered by the test; however, you are not expected to be an
expert on all aspects of the topics that follow
...
Consult materials and
resources, including lecture and laboratory notes, from all your coursework
...

Try not to be overwhelmed by the volume and scope of content knowledge in this guide
...
Many of the items on the actual test will provide you with a context to apply to these topics or terms
...
These discussion areas are intended to help test your knowledge of fundamental concepts and your
ability to apply those concepts to situations in the classroom or the real world
...
If you spend
time on these areas, you will gain increased understanding and facility with the subject matter covered on the
test
...

Note that this study companion does not provide answers for the discussion area questions, but thinking about the
answers to them will help improve your understanding of fundamental concepts and will probably help you
answer a broad range of questions on the test
...


I
...
Methods of Scientific Inquiry and Design

1
...
Forming and testing hypotheses
3
...
Experimental design, including independent
and dependent variables, controls, and sources
of error
5
...
Nature of scientific knowledge
a
...

c
...


subject to change
consistent with evidence
based on reproducible evidence
includes unifying concepts and processes
(e
...
, systems, models, constancy and
change, equilibrium, form and function)

B
...
Common units of measurement (metric and
English) including unit conversion and
prefixes such as milli and kilo
2
...
Organization and presentation of data
4
...
Interpret and Draw Conclusions from
Data Presented in Tables, Graphs, Maps,
and Charts

1
...

3
...


Trends in data
Relationships between variables
Predictions based on data
Drawing valid conclusions based on the data

D
...
Appropriate and safe use of materials (e
...
,
chemicals, lab specimens)
2
...
Appropriate storage
4
...
g
...


How to Use Standard Equipment in the
Laboratory and the Field

1
...
g
...
Appropriate storage (e
...
, pH probes stored in
appropriate buffer solution, dissection
equipment, glassware)
3
...
g
...
Preparation for classroom or field use (e
...
,
prelaboratory setup, classroom
demonstrations, field research)
F
...
Location and use of standard safety
equipment (e
...
, eyewash, shower)
2
...
Appropriate apparel and conduct in the
laboratory (e
...
, wearing goggles)
4
...
g
...
Major Historical Developments of
Science

1
...
Major developments in science (e
...
, atomic
theory, plate tectonics)
3
...
g
...

• Design an experiment and identify the
independent and dependent variable
...

• 1,000 kilometers is equivalent to how many
millimeters?
• Express the number 0
...
How many significant figures does
number have in decimal notation and in
scientific notation?
• What is the density of a brass cube,
expressed to the correct number of
significant figures, if a side and the mass are
measured and recorded as 2
...
92 g?
• Describe how to prepare 500 mL of
1 M HCl(aq) using 12 M HCl(aq) and distilled
water
...
Physical Science
A
...
Structure of matter
a
...
atoms, molecules, and ions
c
...
Basic structure of the atom
a
...
atomic structure including nucleus,
electrons, protons, and neutrons
c
...
electron arrangements (e
...
, valence
electrons)

The Praxis® Study Companion

3
...
radioisotopes
b
...
characteristics of alpha particles, beta
particles, and gamma radiation
d
...
Basic concepts and relationships involving
energy and matter
a
...
entropy changes (second law of
thermodynamics)
c
...
kinetic and potential energy
e
...
differences between chemical and physical
properties/changes
g
...
transfer of thermal energy and its basic
measurement
–– conduction, convection, and radiation
–– specific heat capacity
–– calorimetry (e
...
, predict heat transfer in
various systems)

i
...
g
...

• What are the limitations of the Bohr model of
the atom?
• What is the relationship between the
position of an element on the periodic table
and its electron configuration?

32

Step 6: Review Study Topics

• Compare the mass and charge of alpha
particles and beta particles
...
Chemistry

1
...
periodic table of the elements
–– elements arranged in groups and periods
–– atomic number, atomic mass, and isotopic
abundance
–– symbols of the elements
–– trends in physical properties based on
position of elements on the periodic table
(e
...
, atomic radius, ionization energy)
–– trends in chemical reactivity based on
position of elements on the periodic table
(e
...
, metals, nonmetals, noble gases)

b
...
g
...
g
...
g
...
Chemical nomenclature, composition, and
bonding
a
...
g
...
types of chemical bonding
–– covalent and ionic

c
...
molar mass and percent composition
3
...
basic concepts involved in chemical
reactions
–– use and balance equations of simple
chemical reactions
• balance equations
• simple stoichiometric calculations based
on balanced equations
–– endothermic and exothermic reactions
–– factors that affect reaction rates (e
...
,
concentration, temperature, pressure,
catalysts/enzymes, activation energy)
–– factors that affect reaction equilibrium
(e
...
, Le Châtelier’s principle)
–– types of reactions (e
...
, combustion, single
or double replacement)
–– simple oxidation-reduction reactions

4
...
simple acid-base chemistry
–– chemical and physical properties of acids
and bases
–– pH scale
–– neutralization
–– acid-base indicators (e
...
, phenolphthalein,
pH paper, litmus paper)

5
...
different types of solutions
––
––
––
––

dilute and concentrated
saturated, unsaturated, supersaturated
solvent and solute
concentration terms (e
...
, molarity, parts
per million (ppm))
–– preparation of solutions of varying
concentrations

33

Step 6: Review Study Topics

b
...
g
...
nonpolar solvents and solutes
–– dissociation of ionic compounds such as
salts in water (e
...
, ionization, electrolytes)
–– precipitation
–– freezing point depression

Discussion areas
• List the elements H, He, Li, and Be in order of
increasing atomic radius
...

• If a sample of gas is heated at a constant
pressure, what will happen to the volume of
the gas?

• What is an example of a buffer solution? How
will the pH change as acid is added to the
buffer solution?
• Why is ammonia gas very soluble in water
while oxygen is only slightly soluble?
• Which of the following 1 M solutions will
have the lowest freezing point:
C2H5OH , KI, MgCl2 ?
C
...
Mechanics
a
...
Newton’s three laws of motion
–– First law: inertia
–– Second law: F = ma (i
...
, net force, mass, and
acceleration)
–– Third law: action-reaction forces

c
...

• Write the electron dot and structural
formulas for formaldehyde, CH2O
...
What type(s) of
reaction is it?
• Consider the following equilibrium reaction:
2 NO2(g)  N2O4(g) + 58 kJ
...

• Is the following process an oxidation or
reduction: Ni2+ + 2 e− → Ni ?
• If the pH of a solution decreases from 5 to 4,
by how much does the concentration of
hydrogen ions increase?

The Praxis® Study Companion

d
...
g
...
g
...
g
...
g
...
simple machines
–– mechanical advantage
–– types of simple machines (e
...
, wedge,
screw, lever)
–– concept of torque

34

Step 6: Review Study Topics

2
...
electrical nature of common materials
–– electric charges
–– electrostatic force (attraction and
repulsion, Coulomb’s law)
–– conductivity, conductors, and insulators

b
...
g
...
basic properties of magnetic fields and
forces
–– magnetic materials
–– magnetic forces and fields (e
...
, magnetic
poles, attractive and repulsive forces)
–– electromagnets

3
...
electromagnetic spectrum
–– nature of light (e
...
, wave properties,
photons)
–– visible spectrum and color
–– electromagnetic spectrum (e
...
, ultraviolet,
microwave, gamma)

b
...
g
...
basic wave phenomena
–– reflection, refraction, diffraction, and
dispersion
–– absorption and transmission
–– interference, scattering, and polarization
–– total internal reflection
–– Doppler effect (e
...
, apparent frequency,
moving source or observer, red/blue shift)

d
...
g
...
sound
–– pitch/frequency and loudness/intensity
–– sound wave production, air vibrations, and
resonance (e
...
, tuning forks)
–– application of the Doppler effect to sound

The Praxis® Study Companion

Discussion areas
• What is the difference between speed and
velocity?
• What is meant by the term “terminal
velocity”?
• What is the relationship between the
distance that separates two objects and the
force of gravitational attraction?
• What is the direction of the centripetal force
acting on an object moving in uniform
circular motion?
• A ball is dropped and another ball of smaller
mass is fired horizontally from the same
height
...

• Why are metals good conductors of
electricity?
• How are series circuits different from parallel
circuits?
• What is the energy transformation that
occurs in a battery?
• Describe the orientation of field lines of a bar
magnet
...

• What wave phenomena are involved in the
separation of white light into a spectrum of
colors by a prism?

35

Step 6: Review Study Topics

• Does the size of the image in a plane mirror
change as the object moves away from the
mirror?

E
...
Mechanisms of evolution (e
...
, natural
selection)
2
...
Supporting evidence (e
...
, fossil record,
comparative genetics, homologous
structures)

• What happens to parallel rays of light when
they pass through a convex lens?
• When you blow over a bottle, what happens
to the frequency as you fill the bottle with
water?

F
...
Basic Structure and Function of Cells
and Their Organelles

B
...

2
...

4
...
Major Structures of Plants and Their
Functions

1
...
Structure and function of roots, leaves, and
stems (e
...
, stomata, xylem, phloem)
3
...
Growth (e
...
, germination, elongation)
5
...
Responses to stimuli (e
...
, light, temperature,
water, gravity)
H
...
Response to stimuli and homeostasis
2
...
g
...
Internal transport and exchange (e
...
, heart,
arteries, veins, capillaries)
4
...
g
...
Movement and support (e
...
, skeletal and
muscular systems)
6
...
Immune system (e
...
, antibodies, autoimmune
disorders)

C
...
Cellular respiration
2
...
Biological molecules (e
...
, DNA, carbohydrates,
proteins, lipids, enzymes)
D
...
Structure (double helix, single stranded, and
base pairs) and function of DNA and RNA
(replication, transcription, and translation)
2
...
Dominant and recessive traits
4
...
g
...
Mutations, chromosomal abnormalities, and
common genetic disorders

The Praxis® Study Companion

Hierarchical Classification Scheme

1
...
g
...
Characteristics of bacteria, animals, plants,
fungi, and protists

III
...
Structure and function of cell membranes
(e
...
, phospholipid bilayer, passive and active
transport)
2
...
Levels of organization (cells, tissues, organs,
organ systems)
4
...
g
...
Prokaryotes (bacteria) and eukaryotes
(animals, plants, fungi, protists)

Theory and Key Mechanisms of
Evolution

I
...
Population dynamics
a
...
behavior (e
...
, territoriality)
c
...
g
...
Community ecology
a
...
species diversity
c
...
g
...
Ecosystems
a
...
stability and disturbances (e
...
, glaciation,
climate change, succession)
c
...
g
...
biogeochemical cycles (e
...
, water, nitrogen,
and carbon cycles, biotic/abiotic
interaction)
Discussion areas
• What structures would you expect to find in
a typical plant cell but not in an animal cell?
What functions do these unique structures
carry out for the plant?
• Compare and contrast the daughter cells
after mitosis and cytokinesis to the daughter
cells from the same parent cell after meiosis
...

• How is genetic drift different from natural
selection?
• What are some structures that organisms use
for locomotion?
• What are the similarities and differences
between fungi and plants?

The Praxis® Study Companion

• Under what environmental conditions would
you expect the transpiration rate to be the
highest in a mature deciduous tree?
• Describe how a germinating seed responds
to gravity and light
...

• Under what conditions would a population
grow exponentially?
• What are the possible outcomes when two
species strongly compete for the same
resources?
• Compare the types of vegetation
encountered with increasing altitude (e
...
,
traveling up a mountainside) and with
increasing latitude (e
...
, traveling toward the
North Pole)
...
Based on the food web,
describe how the pesticide DDT would be
distributed through the ecosystem
...
Earth and Space Science
A
...
Types and basic characteristics of rocks and
minerals and their formation processes
a
...
characteristics of rocks and their formation
processes (i
...
, sedimentary, igneous, and
metamorphic rock)
c
...
g
...

e
...

g
...

i
...


tides, waves, currents
estuaries and barrier islands
islands, reefs, and atolls
polar ice, icebergs, and glaciers
lakes, ponds, and wetlands
streams, rivers, and river deltas
groundwater, water table, wells, and
aquifers
k
...
properties of water that affect Earth systems
(e
...
, density changes on freezing, high heat
capacity, polar solvent, hydrogen bonding)

2
...
erosion and deposition (e
...
, agents of
erosion)
b
...
characteristics of soil (e
...
, types, soil profile)
d
...
runoff and infiltration
3
...
Earth’s layers (e
...
, lithosphere, mantle, core)
b
...
geographical features (e
...
, mountains,
plateaus, mid-ocean ridges)
d
...
plate tectonics theory and evidence
–– folding and faulting (e
...
, plate boundaries)
–– continental drift, seafloor spreading,
magnetic reversals
–– characteristics of volcanoes (e
...
, eruptions,
lava, gases, hot spots)
–– characteristics of earthquakes (e
...
,
epicenters, faults, tsunamis)
–– seismic waves and triangulation

4
...
evaporation and condensation
b
...
runoff and infiltration
d
...
Historical Geology

1
...
principle of uniformitarianism
b
...
g
...
absolute (radiometric) dating
d
...
g
...
fossil record as evidence of the origin and
development of life (e
...
, fossilization
methods, mass extinctions, ice ages, meteor
impacts)
C
...
Characteristics and processes of Earth’s oceans
and other bodies of water
a
...
seawater composition
c
...
Meteorology and Climate

1
...
layers (e
...
, stratosphere)
b
...
g
...
atmospheric pressure and temperature
2
...
relative humidity
b
...
wind (e
...
, how it is generated and
modified)
d
...
types of precipitation (e
...
, hail, rain)
f
...
g
...
development and movement of weather
patterns
3
...
effects of latitude, geographical location,
and elevation (e
...
, mountains and oceans)
b
...
g
...
effects of ocean circulation
d
...
g
...
effect of the tilt of Earth’s axis on seasons
f
...
g
...
El Niño, La Niña
E
...
Major features of the solar system
a
...
laws of motion (e
...
, gravitation, planetary
orbits, satellites)
c
...
characteristics of asteroids, meteoroids,
comets, and dwarf/minor planets
e
...
Interactions of the Earth-Moon-Sun system
a
...
effect on seasons
c
...
effect on tides
e
...
time zones
g
...
Major features of the universe
a
...
g
...
characteristics of stars and their life cycles
–– life cycle of star, e
...
, white dwarf, red giant,
supernova, nebulae, black holes
–– color, temperature, apparent brightness,
absolute brightness, luminosity
–– Hertzsprung-Russell diagrams

c
...
theories about the origin of the universe
(e
...
, Big Bang)
4
...
remote sensing devices (e
...
, satellites,
space probes, telescopes, spectral analysis)
b
...

• How does the Sun influence global and local
winds?
• What weather would you predict for the next
day if you observed a lowering sequence of
stratiform clouds over a day or two?

Discussion areas

• How are air masses classified?

• What are the source materials for the
ingredients of sedimentary rocks?

• Why do tropical cyclones generally move in a
westward direction?

• What properties are most commonly used by
geologists in the field to characterize
minerals?

• What is the Coriolis effect and how does it
influence atmospheric and ocean
circulation?

• What are the major agents of erosion?

• How does a volcanic eruption affect both
regional and worldwide climate conditions?

• What factors determine the amounts of
runoff and infiltration?
• What does the behavior of seismic waves
reveal about the structure and physical
characteristics of Earth’s interior?
• What information is represented on a
topographic map?
• Describe the different tectonic processes
that lead to the formation of mountain
ranges
...
What do
they have in common?
• Compare the surface features and
atmospheres of the other terrestrial planets
to those of Earth
...

• Why does the length of daylight change
from day to day?

The Praxis® Study Companion

39

Step 6: Review Study Topics

• List the common astronomical units of
length in order of increasing distance
...

• What limitation of Earth-based telescopes
has been solved by the Hubble space
telescope?

V
...
Impact of Science and Technology on
the Environment and Society

1
...
g
...
Climate change and greenhouse gases
3
...
eservoirs and levees
R
5
...
zone layer depletion
O
7
...
Space exploration
9
...
g
...
Recycling
11
...
g
...
Major Issues associated with Energy
Production and the Management of
Natural Resources

1
...
Conservation and recycling
3
...
Issues associated with the use and extraction
of Earth’s resources (e
...
, mining, land
reclamation, deforestation)

5
...
g
...
DNA evidence in criminal investigations
7
...
Impact of Science on Public Health
Issues

1
...
g
...
Biotechnology (e
...
, genetic engineering, in
vitro fertilization)
3
...
g
...

• Compare the availability and limitation of the
following sources of power: geothermal,
nuclear, hydroelectric, solar, and fossil fuel
...

• How has recombinant DNA technology been
used to treat diabetes?

C
...
Chemical properties of household products
2
...
g
...
Science principles applied in commonly used
consumer products (e
...
, batteries, lasers,
polarized sunglasses, and fiber optic cables)
4
...
Review Smart Tips for Success
Follow test-taking tips developed by experts
Learn from the experts
...


Should I Guess?
Yes
...
When you don’t know the answer to a question, try to eliminate any obviously wrong answers
and then guess at the correct one
...


Can I answer the questions in any order?
You can answer the questions in order or skip questions and come back to them later
...
Remember that questions left
unanswered are treated the same as questions answered incorrectly, so it is to your advantage to answer every
question
...
There are no hidden meanings or trick questions
...


Are there answer patterns on the test?
No
...
Another myth is that there will never
be more than two questions in a row with the correct answer in the same position among the choices
...
Select the answer you think is correct based on your knowledge of the subject
...
You can work out problems on the scratch paper, make notes to yourself, or write anything at all
...
But make
sure to select or enter your answers on the computer
...
Skip the questions you find extremely difficult
...

Pay attention to the time as you answer the rest of the questions on the test, and try to finish with 10 or
15 minutes remaining so that you can go back over the questions you left blank
...
Your score is based on the number of right answers, so it is to your advantage to answer every
question
...
 eep track of the time
...
You will probably
K
have plenty of time to answer all of the questions, but if you find yourself becoming bogged down, you
might decide to move on and come back to any unanswered questions later
...
 ead all of the possible answers before selecting one
...
Then reread the question to be sure the answer(s) you have given really answer the
question
...

4
...
If you have extra time left over at the end of the test, look over each question and
C
make sure that you have answered it as you intended
...

5
...
No one is expected to answer all of the
D
questions correctly
...
It doesn’t
matter on the Praxis tests whether you score very high or barely pass
...
In other words, what matters is meeting the minimum passing score
...
ets
...
pdf or on the Web site of the state for which you are
seeking certification/licensure
...
Use your energy to take the test, not to get frustrated by it
...
Highly qualified educators and test development
professionals, all with backgrounds in teaching, worked diligently to make the test a fair and valid measure
of your knowledge and skills
...
The best thing to do is concentrate on answering the questions
...
Check on Testing Accommodations
See if you qualify for accommodations that may make it easier to take the Praxis test
What if English is not my primary language?
Praxis tests are given only in English
...
For more details, visit www
...
org/praxis/register/accommodations/plne
...
ets
...


Note: Test takers who have health-related needs requiring them to bring equipment, beverages, or snacks into
the testing room or to take extra or extended breaks must request these accommodations by following the
procedures described in the Bulletin Supplement for Test Takers with Disabilities or Health-Related Needs (PDF),
which can be found at http://www
...
org/s/disabilities/pdf/bulletin_supplement_test_takers_with_
disabilities_health_needs
...

You can find additional information on available resources for test takers with disabilities or health-related needs
at www
...
org/disabilities
...
Do Your Best on Test Day
Get ready for test day so you will be calm and confident
You followed your study plan
...
Now it’s time to prepare for test day
...
Take a dry run to the
test center so you’re sure of the route, traffic conditions, and parking
...
ets
...
Stay calm
...
You will have the allotted amount of time once it does start
...
Once you’ve trained, prepared, and
rested, give it everything you’ve got
...
ets
...
You may also be asked to empty your pockets
...
Some centers do not have secure storage space
available, so please plan accordingly
...


The Praxis® Study Companion

44

Step 9: Do Your Best on Test Day

If you have health-related needs requiring you to bring equipment, beverages or snacks into the testing
room or to take extra or extended breaks, you need to request accommodations in advance
...


Note: All cell phones, smart phones (e
...
, Android® devices, iPhones®, etc
...
If you are seen with such a device, you
will be dismissed from the test, your test scores will be canceled, and you will forfeit your test fees
...
For more information on what you can
bring to the test center, visit www
...
org/praxis/test_day/bring
...

❒  o you know the testing requirements for the license or certification you are seeking in the state(s) where
D
you plan to teach?
❒  ave you followed all of the test registration procedures?
H
❒  o you know the topics that will be covered in each test you plan to take?
D
❒  ave you reviewed any textbooks, class notes, and course readings that relate to the topics covered?
H
❒  o you know how long the test will take and the number of questions it contains?
D
❒  ave you considered how you will pace your work?
H
❒  re you familiar with the types of questions for your test?
A
❒  re you familiar with the recommended test-taking strategies?
A
❒  ave you practiced by working through the practice questions in this study companion or in a study
H
guide or practice test?
❒ f constructed-response questions are part of your test, do you understand the scoring criteria for
I
these questions?
❒ f you are repeating a Praxis test, have you analyzed your previous score report to determine areas where
I
additional study and test preparation could be useful?
If you answered “yes” to the questions above, your preparation has paid off
...
Understand Your Scores
Understand how tests are scored and how to interpret your test scores
Of course, passing the Praxis test is important to you so you need to understand what your scores mean and
what your state requirements are
...
Visit
www
...
org/praxis/states for the most up-to-date information
...
The advantage of a national program is that if you move to another state that also requires Praxis tests,
you can transfer your scores
...
ets
...


How do I know whether I passed the test?
Your score report will include information on passing scores for the states you identified as recipients of your
test results
...

A list of states and their passing scores for each test are available online at www
...
org/praxis/states
...
Now what does it mean? It’s important to interpret your score report correctly
and to know what to do if you have questions about your scores
...
ets
...
pdf to see a sample score report
...
ets
...


Put your scores in perspective
Your score report indicates:
•  our score and whether you passed
Y
•  he range of possible scores
T
•  he raw points available in each content category
T
•  he range of the middle 50 percent of scores on the test
T
If you have taken the same test or other tests in The Praxis Series over the last 10 years, your score report also lists
the highest score you earned on each test taken
...
To help you in future study or in preparing to retake
the test, your score report shows how many raw points you earned in each content category
...
The greater the
difference, the greater the opportunity to improve your score by further study
...
When tests are updated, the meaning of the score scale may change, so requirements
may vary between the new and previous versions
...

These resources may also help you interpret your scores:
• Understanding Your Praxis Scores (PDF), found at www
...
org/praxis/scores/understand
• The Praxis Series Passing Scores (PDF), found at www
...
org/praxis/scores/understand

•  tate requirements, found at www
...
org/praxis/states
S

The Praxis® Study Companion

47

Appendix: Other Questions You May Have

Appendix: Other Questions You May Have
Here is some supplemental information that can give you a better understanding of the Praxis tests
...
The tests do not
measure an individual’s disposition toward teaching or potential for success, nor do they measure your actual
teaching ability
...
Teaching requires many complex skills that are
typically measured in other ways, including classroom observation, video recordings, and portfolios
...


Who takes the tests and why?
Some colleges and universities use the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators tests (Reading, Writing, and
Mathematics) to evaluate individuals for entry into teacher education programs
...
Many states also require Core Academic Skills test scores as part of their
teacher licensing process
...
In addition, some professional associations and
organizations require the Praxis Subject Assessments (formerly the Praxis II® tests) for professional licensing
...
These tests are also used by several professional licensing agencies and by several hundred colleges
and universities
...
You can find details at www
...
org/praxis/states
...
In the case of teacher licensing, a license tells the public that the individual has
met predefined competency standards for beginning teaching practice
...
In
some fields, licensure tests have more than one part and last for more than one day
...
Some join study groups, others study
alone
...
Because a licensure exam
surveys a broad body of knowledge, preparing for a licensure exam takes planning, discipline, and sustained
effort
...
The level of content
knowledge, reflected in the passing score, is based on recommendations of panels of teachers and teacher

The Praxis® Study Companion

48

Appendix: Other Questions You May Have

educators in each subject area
...


How were the tests developed?
E T S consulted with practicing teachers and teacher educators around the country during every step of
The Praxis Series test development process
...
Their responses were then ranked in order of importance and reviewed by
hundreds of teachers
...
Following these
guidelines, teachers and professional test developers created test questions that met content requirements and
E T S Standards for Quality and Fairness
...
During this “validity study,” the
panel also provided a passing-score recommendation based on how many of the test questions a beginning
teacher in your state would be able to answer correctly
...

E T S follows well-established industry procedures and standards designed to ensure that the tests measure what
they are intended to measure
...


How are the tests updated to ensure the content remains current?
Praxis tests are reviewed regularly
...
State licensure titles and the results of relevant
job analyses are also considered
...
National advisory committees may also be convened to review and revise existing
test specifications and to evaluate test forms for alignment with the specifications
...
Scores for tests that contain constructed-response questions or essays aren’t available immediately after
the test because of the scoring process involved
...
See the test dates and deadlines calendar at www
...
org/praxis/register/centers_dates for exact score reporting dates
...
This online access replaces the mailing of a paper score report
...
ets
...
If
you do not already have a Praxis account, you must create one to view your scores
...

*  T S Standards for Quality and Fairness (2003, Princeton, NJ) are consistent with the “Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing,”
E
industry standards issued jointly by the American Educational Research Association, the American Psychological Association, and the
National Council on Measurement in Education (1999, Washington, DC)
...

®

To search for the Praxis test prep resources
that meet your specific needs, visit:

www
...
org/praxis/testprep

To purchase official test prep made by the creators
of the Praxis tests, visit the E T S Store:

www
...
org/praxis/store

Copyright © 2015 by Educational Testing Service
...
E T S, the E T S logo, GRE,
PRAXIS II, PRAXIS, and THE PRAXIS SERIES are registered trademarks of Educational Testing Service (E T S)
...
All other trademarks are property of their respective owners

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