If you need help studying for the Praxis Pennsylvania Grades 4–8 Core Assessment: Mathematics and Science test or just want some more information about what the test is like, you’ve come to the right place!
Click below to take a free Praxis Pennsylvania practice test!
What’s on the Exam?
First, let’s talk about the questions on the test. There are 80 questions in total, some being selected-response and others being numeric entry.
Selected-response questions can appear in several different forms:
- Single-selection multiple-choice
- Selecting ALL correct answers from a list of choices
- Selecting the correct answer from a drop-down menu
- Clicking parts of a graphic such as a map or a chart
- Dragging and dropping answers into a targeted area on the screen
Numeric Entry
Numeric entry questions involve entering numbers into answer boxes, rather than selecting an answer out of multiple choices.
Don’t worry—you won’t have to do calculations in your head! You’ll have access to a scientific calculator during the exam.
The time limit for the test is 80 minutes (1 hour and 20 minutes), which means you have exactly one minute per question. There aren’t any scheduled breaks, but you’re free to take restroom breaks as needed!
Let’s take a closer look at the two sections of the test:
1. Mathematics
40 questions
- Rational numbers
- Fractions, decimals, and percents
- Ratios and proportional relationships
- Number theory concepts
- Estimation
Algebra
- Translating verbal relationships into algebraic expressions
- Solving equations using variables
- Simple sequences/patterns
Functions and Their Graphs
- Evaluating functions
- Components of the coordinate plane
- Graphing ordered pairs
- Analyzing functions that model given information
Geometry and Measurement
- Solving problems involving perimeter, volume, and area
- Similarity and congruence
- Solving problems involving circles
- Properties of polygons
- Properties of lines, line segments, rays, and points
- Systems of measurement
Probability, Statistics, and Discrete Math
- Basic computations in statistics
- Interpreting data from tables, graphs, and charts
- Determining the probability of simple events
- Logical reasoning
2. Social Studies
40 questions
- Elements of scientific inquiry
- Methods and tools used to gather data
- Interpreting scientific data
- Important scientific developments of major historical figures
Physical Sciences
- Energy and matter
- Basic chemistry concepts
- Basic physics concepts
Life Sciences
- Cell structure and function
- Genetics
- Evolution
- Diversity of life
- Ecology
Earth and Space Sciences
- Physical and historical geology
- Hydrosphere and atmosphere
- Astronomy
Science, Technology, and Society
- The impact of science, technology, and humans on the environment
- Major issues associated with energy production
- Applying science and technology into everyday life
- The impact of science on public health issues
How to Register
To register for the test, you’ll need to create an account on the ETS website. Once your account has been created, you can submit your application to take the test.
When you submit your registration, you will need to pay the $50 testing fee.
Praxis Pennsylvania Study Guide and Flashcards
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Praxis Scores
The Praxis Pennsylvania Grades 4–8 Core Assessment: Math and Science test is scored using a scaled scoring method. Here’s how it works:
For every question you answer correctly, you get one point added to your raw score. At the end of the test, your final raw score will be converted to a scaled score. This scaled score will range somewhere between 100 and 200.
The reason your raw score is converted to a scaled score is because everyone that takes the test is given a slightly different set of questions. Since everyone has a different arrangement of questions, and because some questions are harder than others, converting your raw score to a scaled score ensures a more even playing field.
FAQs
How many questions are on the Praxis Pennsylvania Grades 4-8: Math and Science exam?
The exam contains 80 questions.
What is the time limit for the Praxis Pennsylvania Grades 4-8: Math and Science exam?
The exam is timed at 1 hour and 20 minutes.
What is the passing score for the Praxis Pennsylvania Grades 4-8: Math and Science exam?
You’ll need to get a final score of at least 164 to pass the exam.
How much does the Praxis Pennsylvania Grades 4-8: Math and Science exam cost?
The testing fee is $50.