Reading, writing, and math: Those are the three pillars of education that lead to success in other subjects. Educators in Washington who want to teach in these areas must take the Washington Educator’s Skills Test West B Reading, Writing and Math exam. The content categories may be self-explanatory, but there are other facets of the test that are not. That’s why this guide and links to an outstanding pair of study materials are so important.
What is the test format?
The test is comprised of three areas: reading, writing, and math. Candidates must pass all three portions of the exam.
How many questions are on the West B Reading, Writing, and Math exam?
The reading and the math portion each have 60 multiple-choice questions. The writing portion of the test has 50 multiple-choice and two constructed-response questions.
Do I have to take the entire test in one sitting?
No. Candidates may take the reading, writing or math sections separately.
How much time do I have to complete the exam?
Candidates get two hours to complete the reading test, three hours to complete the writing test, and two hours to finish the math test. Candidates who take the exam in one sitting have five hours to complete all three portions of the exam.
When can I take the West B Reading, Writing and Math exam?
The test is available year-round. Please consult the test materials for specific dates.
Where can I take the test?
Washington uses an independent test center to deliver the Washington Educator’s Skills Test West B Reading, Writing, and Math exam. There are test centers in the state and throughout the country.
What’s the passing score?
A passing score of 240 is required on each of the three test areas.
When will I receive my exam my score?
Reading and math scores will be available when you complete your exam. Writing results are not immediately available. In all cases, full score reports will be available two to six weeks after completing the test.
How much are the fees to take the West B Reading, Writing, and Math exam?
Each individual subtest costs $75. The fee is $155 when taking all three subtests at the same time. The fees include a test and processing fee.
It’s test day. When should I arrive at the test center?
Candidates should arrive at least 15 minutes ahead of your scheduled test appointment to allow adequate time for test check-in.
Will I need to bring identification?
Yes. Candidates must show one piece of government-issued identification, like a driver’s license, at the test center.
What’s on the test?
- Reading tests knowledge in several areas, including understanding, in a reading selection. This section also asks about the main idea and supporting details; analyzing reading sections to identify similarities, differences and implied relationships; reading selection evaluation with critical reasoning skills; analyzing a reading section to determine a writer’s purpose, intent, and point of view; the ability to understand words and phrases in context; and looking at charts, graphics or tables and interpreting information.
- Writing challenges candidates to show they understand written communication, including the impact of an author’s choice of words; thesis statements and their effectiveness or ineffectiveness; whether the written passage has communicated the intended message; revision strategies for voice, organization, transition and the like; imprecise words and phrases and how to eliminate or replace them; and standard writing conventions and the use of nouns, verbs, punctuation, pronouns, and modifiers.
- Math tests a candidate’s knowledge in several different concepts, including principal of numbers and operations including integers, decimals, percentages, ratios and proportions; measurement, including solving math problems using the U.S. or metric system; perimeter, area, and volume concepts; geometry, including understanding fundamental concepts like points, lines, and planes; and statistics, algebra, and drawing conclusions via inductive or deductive reasoning.
What study materials will best help me prepare for this exam?
Mometrix has an excellent pair of study materials. Our study guide will show how to quickly get through the questions you know and save time for those that you don’t. If you need help using the materials, that’s no problem. Our experts are a quick email away. Our flashcards are fantastic because your friends and family can help quiz you whenever you have just a few minutes. If you’re about to take the West B Reading, Writing, and Math exam, these are the study materials you need.
WEST-B Study Guide and Flashcards
Get practice questions, detailed study lessons, and complex subjects broken down into easily understandable concepts.
