PRAXIS II Mathematics: Content Knowledge (5161) Information
To earn your Secondary Education/Mathematics certification (Endorsement Code #029) in Connecticut, you will need to earn at least a 160 on the PRAXIS II Mathematics: Content Knowledge (5161) exam. This minimum passing score was recently raised and coming soon there will be restrictions imposed on the number of attempts you are allowed.
Therefore,you will need to carefully prepare for this exam prior to taking it. Here are some things to consider before you register for the exam.
Test Dates (pdf)
When should I take the exam?
Since the PRAXIS II covers Algebra, Calculus, Geometry, Statistics and Discrete Math, ideally you will take the PRAXIS after taking MAT 141, MAT 182, MAT 222, MAT 242, and MAT 272. You should start preparing while enrolled in some of these courses.
You are required to pass the PRAXIS II exam before entering your professional semester.
How do I start preparing?
Begin by reading the ETS Preparation Materials, including their Study Guide Companion. After working through the small set of sample problems, you should have an idea about which topics you will need to work on. If so, seek resources such as Kahn Academy and notes from relevant courses to improve your knowledge in these areas. You also can reach out to math department members and the Math Clinic for help with specific topics.
How do I practice…for free?
You can take a free full-length exam at www.teacherstestprep.com. (You will need to register, but this is free.) Video solutions to these exercises are available here. In addition, the math department has purchased exams for you to take. To take one (or more), contact Dr. Hall or Dr. Burns. The WCSU Library also has study resources on the web that can be found here.
How will I know when I’m ready to take the actual exam?
You should earn at least 160 on one of the math department’s practice exams BEFORE taking the actual exam. Contact Dr. Hall or Dr. Burns to take a math department practice exam. You can take multiple practice exams through the math department until you get a passing score, but we will need to see evidence of sufficient studying between exams.
Can I get a waiver?
You can waive the requirement to take the Praxis I basic skills test with a sufficiently high SAT score. If you earned a combined Verbal/Math score of at least 1100 with no less than 450 on either portion, you can apply for a waiver of Praxis I. The waiver application for is available here. There is no waiver for the Praxis II subject exam.