Improving Praxis II scores Overall and Specifically in Math and English

The chart of Praxis II scores includes preliminary data, unofficial data for candidates currently in the program. We wanted to demonstrate some changes as a result of the actions we have taken.

Praxis II scores have been discussed at length in program meetings, in the Professional Education Committee, and with Arts & Sciences departments representatives. The general consensus is that we want to resist a “one-measure” approach to assessing content knowledge. However, at the same time everyone recognizes the importance of making sure that every graduate of our programs have passing Praxis II scores so that we can apply for their licensure.

All secondary program faculty attended the workshop that VDOE arranged for area universities, where ETS presented various ways to understand how the Praxis II tests were constructed. But faculty made no substantive effort at that point to incorporate their new understandings into the content methods courses. In mathematics we have two programs, one on-campus program comprised of both undergraduate and graduate students and one at the northern Virginia campus, comprised of candidates moving from other careers. The latter is not an alternative program. However, some candidates have been removed from their majors and test taking for some years. In that program, we decided to make the passing of Praxis II an entry requirement. Candidates are also encouraged to take two specifically designed courses for math licensure offered at the community colleges in the area: Geometry and Algebra. The analysis that our math department did on Praxis II showed a preponderance of essentially high school geometry, something dealt with very little in their math major. On campus, the instructors in both methods I and II have begun doing some exercises with the types of math content in the test, i.e. teaching instructional strategies along with content.

In English, the instructor has developed an integrated assignment in which candidates select a literary period or author from the traditional canon and develop a variety of resources for a unit. They share these resources and in that way essentially review chunks of literary content.

We asked a local bookstore to stock the Praxis II review books that are available from ETS (math, English, social studies, and elementary education). We also purchase them for faculty to use in their classes as well as to give to study groups.

Because we had not made Praxis II an exit requirement, i.e. a graduation requirement, which would require approval at the university level, many candidates viewed the test as optional, thinking they would get a provisional license and then take the test. In counter that we made it clear in all materials that they cannot be considered a completer of an approved program without Praxis II passing scores, i.e. they must apply for a license independently and meet whatever regulations the VDOE might have. We also asked that they take the test prior to placement in student teaching. In this way, we will know who needs more content assistance; we will be aware of possible problems with content during student teaching; and candidates will have at least three more times to take the test prior to completing the program.

The chart of Praxis II scores shows that we have made some progress with math scores. We will update this chart as new results come in and may have complete results from the March testing by the April visit. We will continue to evaluate our approach and will take further action if necessary.