Standardized Tests

The Praxis: What to Expect on Test Day

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this guy is smug because he knew what to expect on test day (picture from the Praxis website)

By Leslie Grant, Graduate Assistant, McLure Education Library

Many College of Education students will soon be taking the Praxis. In order to help you be more prepared on test day, we would like to share some Praxis resources. For more about the Praxis and how to find library study aids, read our previous post on the topic here.

The Praxis is currently is the process of moving to a completely computerized version of the test. For those of us used to paper and pencil standardized tests, this can add a level of uncertainty to an already stressful situation. Luckily, the Praxis has released some guides that will ease the process.

First, you can check out their Computer-delivered Testing Demonstration. This site shows you what the test will look like and how to navigate through it. It even includes a demo version where you can practice with log in and sample questions. By practicing with this demonstration, you can feel more comfortable with the format of the test because you have seen and used it before.

You can also watch a Computer-delivered Test Center Tour. This will guide you through computer testing procedures, including proper identification, how to store your belongings, and entering and exiting the testing area. The video shows what to expect on test day, and I found it very similar to my own experience with ETS computerized testing. It’s a great resource to get an idea of what the testing facility will look like, especially for those who have never been to one before.

For those taking the computer-delivered test, I would highly recommend spending the time to look over these websites to get more familiar with the test format and testing centers. You can also find additional help with studying on the Preparation Materials page of the Praxis website.

Best of luck!

Prepping for the Praxis

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By Leslie Grant, Graduate Assistant, McLure Education Library

With spring approaching, it’s time for many education majors to start thinking about the Praxis. Praxis testing has begun already at The University of Alabama, and the testing window for April has been expanded to accommodate the high demand. McLure is here to help as you prepare for the exam.

The Praxis is a series of tests for teaching certification. The Praxis I Pre-Professional Skills Test (PPST) covers reading, writing, and math. A passing score is generally required for entrance into a teacher education program and may also be necessary in some states in order to apply for a teaching license or certificate. The Praxis II assesses subject-specific knowledge and teaching skills. Necessary exams vary by discipline. Passing the Praxis II is usually a requirement for teacher certification. For more information about the Praxis, including test locations and dates, visit their official site at ETS – The Praxis Series.

For those taking the Praxis, McLure library has free study aids available. These resources are no longer kept as physical copies, but can be accessed online instead through Learning Express Library. A detailed guide on how to locate Praxis resources can be found on the library’s website. Look for “Praxis Practice Test” under the heading “Research Help” on the McLure library page or follow this link.

Good luck!