If you need help studying for the STAAR Algebra I 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 STAAR Algebra I practice test!
What’s on the Test?
The STAAR Algebra I test contains 50 questions and is timed at 4 hours. Some of the questions on the test are multiple-choice, but many of the questions fall under one of the following question types:
- Multiselect
- Multipart
- Hot text
- Hot spot
- Inline choice
- Drag and drop
- Text entry
- Constructed response
Let’s take a closer look at the five sections of the Algebra I test:
1. NUMBER AND ALGEBRAIC METHODS
9-11 questions
- Properties of numbers
- Simplifying algebraic expressions
- Operations with real numbers
- Solving linear equations
2. DESCRIBING AND GRAPHING LINEAR FUNCTIONS, EQUATIONS, AND INEQUALITIES
10-12 questions
- Properties of numbers
- Simplifying algebraic expressions
- Operations with real numbers
- Solving linear equations
3. WRITING AND SOLVING LINEAR FUNCTIONS, EQUATIONS, AND INEQUALITIES
12-14 questions
- Writing linear equations from real-world scenarios
- Solving systems of linear equations
- Application of linear inequalities
- Modeling with linear functions
4. NUMBER AND ALGEBRAIC METHODS
9-11 questions
- Factoring quadratic equations
- Using the quadratic formula
- Graphing quadratic functions
- Vertex and standard forms of quadratic equations
5. EXPONENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND EQUATIONS
5-7 questions
- Exponential growth and decay
- Properties of exponents
- Graphing exponential functions
- Solving exponential equations
STAAR Test Scores
The STAAR Algebra I 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, which can reach a maximum of 59 points. At the end of the test, your final raw score will be converted to a scaled score. This scaled score will range somewhere between 1500 and 6430.
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.
Your final score will fall into one of four performance levels:
AI Grading for the STAAR Test
In an effort to save time and money, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) implemented a “hybrid-scoring” model in 2024, which involves using a computer system to help grade STAAR tests. Specifically, the computer will grade about 75% of the test, then hand it over to a human to grade the last 25%.
Retaking the Test
If you didn’t get the score you wanted on your first try, that’s okay! You can take the test again during any testing administration window.
FAQs
How many questions are on the STAAR Algebra I test?
The test contains 50 questions.
What is the time limit for the STAAR Algebra I test?
Technically, the time limit is 4 hours. However, TEA no longer enforces a strict maximum time for STAAR tests, which means you are allowed to continue taking the test up to end of the school day if you need to.
What is a good STAAR Algebra I score?
To fall under a performance level that meets or exceeds your grade level, you should aim for a scaled score of at least 4000.