PRAXIS II Mathematics Content Knowledge (0061) w/CD-ROM (PRAXIS Teacher Certification Test Prep) - Softcover

Friedman, Mel; Editors Of REA; PRAXIS

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0738603643 ISBN 13: 9780738603643

Publisher: Research & Education Association, 2007

Synopsis

PRAXIS II Mathematics Content Knowledge (0061) with Practice Tests on CD

TestWare CD includes timed practice tests, instant scoring, and more.

Are you prepared to excel on the PRAXIS II?

* Get to know the test, how it is scored, and much more.

* Set up a study schedule by following our flexible, results-driven timeline

* Take the Pretest to discover what you know and what you should know

* Use REA's advice to ready yourself for proper study and success

Sharpen your knowledge and skills

* The comprehensive review guides candidates through all the content and process categories on the official test, which is required in most states for certification. Content categories include: Algebra and Number Theory, Measurement, Geometry; Trigonometry, Functions, Calculus, Data Analysis and Statistics, Probability, Matrix Algebra, and Discrete Mathematics.

* Lessons reinforce necessary skills

* Key tutorials enhance specific abilities needed on the test

* Targeted drills increase comprehension and help organize study

Take Practice Tests

* Create the closest experience to test-day conditions with 2 of the book’s 3 full-length practice tests on REA’s TestWare CD, featuring test-taking against the clock, instant scoring by topic, handy mark-and-return function, pause function, and more

* Or, choose paper-and-pencil testing at your own pace

* Chart your progress with full and detailed explanations of all answers

* Boost confidence with test-taking strategies and experienced advice

This test prep is a must-have for teacher certification candidates across the country!

REA books and software have proven to be the extra support teacher candidates need to pass their challenging tests for licensure. Our comprehensive test preps are teacher-recommended and written by experts in the field.

About this title

From the Back Cover

ARE YOU READY TO PASS THE PRAXIS?
THEN USE THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE ON THE MARKET TODAY.

PRAXIS II Mathematics Content Knowledge (0061)

The Most Complete Subject Review:
Everything you need to know for the PRAXIS II Mathematics Content Knowledge (0061) exam, prepared by leading teacher education specialists. Comprehensive review chapters cover all the subjects and skills tested on the exam.

The Best Practice Exams Available:
3 full-length practice exams based on the official PRAXIS test – balanced to include every topic and type of question you can expect on the actual PRAXIS II Mathematics Content Knowledge exam.

Total Explanations of Questions & Answers:
Each PRAXIS II Mathematics practice test comes with detailed feedback on every question. We don’t just say which answers are right – but explain why the others are wrong, so you’ll be prepared on test day!

Proven Test Prep Methods:
REA’s focused PRAXIS II Mathematics content and practical advice has helped millions succeed on their exams. With our step-by-step study plan, you can score high on the PRAXIS and get certified to teach!

Federal Guidelines for NCLB Compliance:
You can expect that candidates with NCLB-compliant credentials will enjoy preferential status in hiring. This means you need to pass the PRAXIS Assessments. Maximize your exam performance and master the PRAXIS Assessments with the unrivaled certification expertise that only REA can offer.

Get the World’s Most Advanced PRAXIS Software:
REA’s PRAXIS II Mathematics Content Knowledge TestWare combines a realistic test environment with the most powerful scoring analysis and diagnostic tools available. With every practice test you take, you’ll gain knowledge and confidence for the real exam. Automatic scoring and instant reports help you zero in on the topics and types of questions that give you trouble now, so you’ll succeed on the exam!

Excerpt. © Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved.

Introduction: Passing the Test
About This Book and TESTware

REA’s The Best Teachers’ Preparation for the PRAXIS II Mathematics Content Knowledge Test (0061) is a comprehensive guide designed to assist you in preparing for this required test for teachers of secondary school mathematics. To enhance your chances of success in this important step toward your career as a mathematics teacher, this test guide:

Presents an accurate and complete overview of the PRAXIS II Mathematics Content Knowledge Test

Identifies all of the important information and its representation on the test

Provides a comprehensive review of every content category on the test

Provides three full-length practice tests

Suggests tips and strategies for successfully completing standardized tests

Replicates the format of the official test, including levels of difficulty

Supplies the correct answer and detailed explanations for each question on the diagnostic and practice tests, which enable you to identify correct answers and understand why they are correct and, just as important, why the other answers are incorrect.

  This guide is the of a review of the best resources available. REA editors considered the most recent test administrations and professional standards. We also researched information from Educational Testing Service, professional journals, textbooks, and educators. The result? The best test preparation materials based on the latest information available. Practice Tests 1 and 2 are included in two formats: in printed form in this book and in TESTware format on the enclosed CD. We recommend that you begin your preparation by first taking the computerized version of your test. The software provides the added benefits of enforced timed conditions and instantaneous, accurate soring, making it easier to pinpoint your strengths and weaknesses.

About the Test

The PRAXIS II Mathematics Test is designed to assess the mathematical knowledge and competencies for a beginning secondary school teacher. Below are the content and process categories used as the basis for the PRAXIS II Mathematics Test, as well as the approximate percentage of the total test that each category occupies. These categories represent the knowledge that teams of teachers, subject area specialists, and district-level educators have determined to be important for beginning teachers. This book contains a thorough review of all these categories, as well as the specific skills that demonstrate each area.

Who Administers the Test?

All the PRAXIS II tests are administered by the Educational Testing Service (www.ets.org/praxis).

Content Categories                    Approx # questions             Percentage

I Algebra and Number Theory                 8                                             16%

II Measurement                                       3                                              6%

   Geometry                                             5                                              10%

   Trigonometry                                        4                                              8%

III.Functions                                             8                                              16%

     Calculus                                               6                                              12%

IV. Data Analysis and Statistics               5 6                                          10 12%

     Probability                                         2 3                                             4 6%

V. Matrix Algebra                                   4 5                                            8 10%  

     Discrete Mathematics                         3 4                                            6 8% Process Categories -- Distributed Across Content Categories:

Mathematical Problem Solving

Mathematical Reasoning and Proof

Mathematical Connections

Mathematical Representation

Use of Technology

Can I Retake the Test?

Most states and institutions allow candidates who do not pass the PRAXIS II Mathematics Test to retake it as often as necessary until a passing score is achieved. In these cases, candidates must reregister each time they retake a test. However, please check with your state or testing institution for their specific requirements. Candidates who have passed a PRAXIS II Mathematics Test have met that part of the testing requirement for certification and, therefore, are not eligible to retake the test again.

When Should the Test Be Taken?

Individual states, institutions, and associations set their own requirements and passing scores for the PRAXIS. Some states specify the passing of additional or different tests. Check with your state agency for details.

ETS offers the PRAXIS II Mathematics Test seven times a year at a number of locations across the nation. The usual testing day is Saturday, but examinees may request an administration on an alternate day if there is a conflict, such as a religious obligation.

To receive information on upcoming administrations of the PRAXIS II Mathematics Test, consult the PRAXIS II Information Bulletin (available for download on the ETS website), or contact the ETS at:

Educational Testing Service
Teaching and Learning Division
P.O. Box 6051
Princeton, NJ 08541-6051
Phone: (609) 771-7395; (800) 772-9476
Website: www.ets.org/PRAXIS II
E-mail form available on website Special accommodations are available for candidates who are visually impaired, hearing impaired, physically disabled, or specific learning disabled. For questions concerning disability services, contact the Office of Disability Services at: Phone: (609) 771-7780; (866) 387-8602TTY only: (609) 771-7714E-mail: stassd@ets.orgWebsite: www.ets.org/praxis/prxdsabl.html

Is There a Registration Fee?

There is a fee to take the PRAXIS II Mathematics Test. A complete summary of the registration fees can be found at the website above, or by calling the number above.

Graphing Calculators

Graphing calculators are required for the PRAXIS II Mathematics Test, so one should be used during your practice tests in this book and on the CD-ROM. On test day, bring your graphing calculator to the testing site as one will not be provided. The ETS states that the calculator should be able to:

1. produce a graph of a function within an arbitrary viewing window

2. find the zeros of a function

3. compute the derivative of a function numerically

4. compute definite integrals numerically

Calculator memories need not be cleared. No calculators with typewriter-type QWERTY keyboards and electronic writing pads are allowed. Please see the ETS website for further details on the types of calculating devices that are prohibited.

How to Use This Book and TESTware

How Do I Begin Studying?

Review the organization of this test preparation guide.

1. To best utilize your study time, follow our PRAXIS II Independent Study Schedule. The schedule is based on a eight-week program, but can be condensed to four weeks if necessary.

2. Take the first practice test on CD-ROM, score it according to directions, then review the explanations to your answers carefully, studying the areas that your scores indicate need further review.

3. Review the format of the PRAXIS II.

4. Review the test-taking advice and suggestions presented later in this section

5. Pay attention to the information about content and the objectives of the test.

6. Spend time reviewing topics that stand out as needing more study.

7. Take the second practice test on CD-ROM and follow the same procedure as #2 above. 8. Take the third practice test printed in this book and follow the same procedure as #2 above.

9. Follow the suggestions at the end of this section for the day before and the day of the test.  

When Should I Start Studying?

It is never too early to start studying for the PRAXIS II Mathematics Test. The earlier you begin, the more time you will have to sharpen your skills. Do not procrastinate!

An eight-week study schedule is provided at the end of this section to assist you in preparing for the test. This schedule can be adjusted to meet your unique needs. If your test date is only four weeks away, you can halve the time allotted to each section, but keep in mind that this is not the most effective way to study. If you have several months before your test date, you may wish to extend the time allotted to each section. Remember, the more time you spend studying, the better your chances of achieving your aim a passing score on the PRAXIS II Mathematics Test.

Studying for the PRAXIS II Mathematics Test

It is very important for you to choose the time and place for studying that works best for you. Some students set aside a certain number of hours every morning to study, while some study at night before going to sleep, and others study during the day, while waiting in line, or even while eating lunch. Choose a time when you can concentrate and your study will be most effective. Be consistent and use your time wisely. Work out a study routine and stick to it.

  When you take the practice tests, simulate the conditions of the actual test as closely as possible. Turn off your television and radio, and sit down at a quiet table with your graphing calculator. As you complete each practice test, score it and thoroughly review the explanations to the questions you answered incorrectly. Do not, however, review too much at any one time. Concentrate on one problem area at a time by examining the question and explanation, and by studying our review until you are confident that you have mastered the material. Keep track of your scores to discover general weaknesses in particular sections and to gauge your progress. Give extra attention to the review sections that cover your areas of difficulty, as this will build your skills in those areas.

  Format of the PRAXIS II Mathematics Test

The PRAXIS II Mathematics Test addresses 5 main content categories and 5 process categories.

  The content categories were designed to measure the ability to integrate knowledge of mathematics and may involve more than one competency, as well as competencies from more than one content area.

  In addition to content categories, the test contains process categories. Entry-level mathematics teachers must demonstrate that they have an understanding of the various ways in which math content knowledge is acquired and used. The process categories (as listed above) test and assess this ability and one or more may be applied to any of the content topics in the test.

  There are 50 multiple-choice questions on the PRAXIS II Mathematics Test, and each contains four response options, A through D. You are given two hours to complete the test, so be aware of the amount of time you are spending on each question. Using the practice tests will help you prepare to pace your time evenly, efficiently, and productively.

  About the Review Sections

The reviews in this bo...

Edition details

• Publisher: Research & Education Association
• Publication date: 2007
• ISBN 10: 0738603643
• ISBN 13: 9780738603643
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 320