Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (5752) — Questions and Answers

Question 1: To accommodate the diverse learning needs in her mixed-ability language arts classroom, Ms. Chen allows students to demonstrate their understanding of a novel in several ways. Some students may write a traditional essay, others can create a podcast discussing the main themes, and a third group can develop a storyboard for a film adaptation. This practice is best described as differentiating the:

Product (Correct answer)
Environment
Process
Content

Correct answer: Product

Differentiated instruction involves modifying content, process, product, or the learning environment. [22] In this scenario, Ms. Chen is allowing students to choose how they will demonstrate their learning. The end result, or 'product,' is what is being differentiated. The learning objective (understanding the novel) remains the same for all students, but the output is varied. [16, 27]

Question 2: Choose the sentence with consistent verb tense.

She open the door and walks inside.
She opened the door and walked inside. (Correct answer)
She opened the door and walks inside.
She opens the door and walked inside.

Correct answer: She opened the door and walked inside.

Both verbs are in the past tense, keeping the sentence consistent.

Question 3: A student reads 'know' correctly. Understanding the silent 'k' reflects knowledge of:

A silent-letter spelling pattern (Correct answer)
An r-controlled vowel
A consonant blend
A diphthong

Correct answer: A silent-letter spelling pattern

The 'kn' pattern has a silent k, a recognized spelling pattern in English.

Question 4: What is 3/8 + 1/8?

4/16
1/2 (Correct answer)
2/8
1/4

Correct answer: 1/2

With like denominators, 3/8 + 1/8 = 4/8 = 1/2.

Question 5: During a unit on persuasive writing, a middle school teacher has students write a formal letter to the school principal arguing for a change to a school policy. The teacher evaluates the letters based on the strength of the argument, use of evidence, and adherence to a formal letter format. This assignment is best described as which type of assessment?

A summative multiple-choice test
A norm-referenced assessment
A diagnostic assessment
An authentic assessment (Correct answer)

Correct answer: An authentic assessment

This is an example of an authentic assessment because it requires students to perform a real-world task that demonstrates a meaningful application of their knowledge and skills. Writing a persuasive letter to a real audience (the principal) about a genuine issue replicates a task that adults perform in civic life.

Question 6: Which of the following correctly describes the process of natural selection?

All members of a species evolve at the same rate.
New species form when organisms deliberately change their behavior.
Organisms can choose which traits they pass on to their offspring.
Organisms with traits better suited to their environment tend to survive and reproduce more, passing those traits on. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Organisms with traits better suited to their environment tend to survive and reproduce more, passing those traits on.

Natural selection: individuals with heritable traits better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, increasing the frequency of those traits over generations.

Question 7: What literary device is the author using in the phrase "frowning forest"?

E: personification (Correct answer)
B: simile
C: metaphor
A: caesura
D: assonance

Correct answer: E: personification

Personification is the attribution of human characteristics or feelings to inanimate objects or animals. Describing a forest as 'frowning' gives it a human expression of displeasure or seriousness, making it an example of personification.

Question 8: A student reads the word 'phone' and correctly produces the /f/ sound. Which concept does this demonstrate?

A consonant blend
An r-controlled vowel
A digraph representing a single sound (Correct answer)
A silent consonant rule

Correct answer: A digraph representing a single sound

The letters 'ph' form a digraph, two letters producing one sound, /f/.

Question 9: Which version corrects the faulty comparison? "Her essay was better than any student in the class."

Her essay was more better than any student.
Her essay was better than any student in the class.
Her essay was better than any students in the class.
Her essay was better than any other student's in the class. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Her essay was better than any other student's in the class.

An essay must be compared to another essay, indicated by the possessive "student's."

Question 10: A number is divisible by 9 if the sum of its digits is divisible by 9. Which number is divisible by 9?

260
234 (Correct answer)
251
245

Correct answer: 234

The digits of 234 sum to 9, which is divisible by 9.

Question 11: What is the first step a teacher should take when designing a lesson plan?

Identify the learning objectives (Correct answer)
Write the assessment
Select instructional materials
Plan the closure activity

Correct answer: Identify the learning objectives

Identifying clear learning objectives defines what students should know and be able to do, guiding all other lesson planning decisions.

Question 12: 3/8 + 1/3 + 1/8 =

1/2
5/6 (Correct answer)
3/4

Correct answer: 5/6

To add these fractions, first combine the fractions with the same denominator: 3/8 + 1/8 = 4/8, which simplifies to 1/2. Now, add 1/2 to 1/3. Find a common denominator for 2 and 3, which is 6, converting the fractions to 3/6 and 2/6. Adding these gives 3/6 + 2/6 = 5/6.

Question 13: Why did Edison want an extra $10?

A: so that he could buy dinner on the way
E: so that he could pay his electric bill
C: so that he could buy an extra lamp oil
B: so that he could get another boy to accompany him (Correct answer)
D: because he was a slick negotiator

Correct answer: B: so that he could get another boy to accompany him

Edison requested an additional $10 to hire another boy to accompany him on his urgent delivery. This suggests the task was challenging or potentially dangerous, requiring assistance or companionship. The extra money was a practical request to ensure the successful and safe completion of the message delivery.

Question 14: Which is the best revision of the following wordy sentence: 'Due to the fact that he was sick, he did not attend school'?

He did not attend school, he was sick.
Because he was sick he did not attend school.
He was sick due to the fact that he didn't attend.
Because he was sick, he did not attend school. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Because he was sick, he did not attend school.

'Due to the fact that' is wordy and can be replaced by 'because.' Option B also correctly adds a comma after the introductory clause.

Question 15: A teacher receives critical feedback from an administrator during an evaluation. The most professional response is to:

File a complaint immediately
Ignore it and continue as before
Dismiss the feedback as unfair
Listen, reflect, and create an improvement plan (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Listen, reflect, and create an improvement plan

Professionals accept feedback openly and use it to set goals for improvement.

Question 16: Which sentence is the best example of a supporting detail rather than a main idea?

Exercise offers many health benefits.
Regular walking lowers blood pressure by several points. (Correct answer)
Staying active is important for everyone.
There are good reasons to exercise daily.

Correct answer: Regular walking lowers blood pressure by several points.

A specific, measurable fact about walking and blood pressure supports a broader main idea.

Question 17: Choose the sentence with correct apostrophe use.

The students notebook's were collected.
The students notebooks were collected.
The student's notebooks were collected.
The students' notebooks were collected. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The students' notebooks were collected.

Plural possessive "students'" shows the notebooks belong to multiple students.

Question 18: A teacher wants students to distinguish between relevant and irrelevant details in a passage about photosynthesis. Which detail is IRRELEVANT?

Chlorophyll is the green pigment that absorbs light.
Carbon dioxide is absorbed through tiny pores called stomata.
The scientist who studied photosynthesis grew up in Germany. (Correct answer)
Photosynthesis requires sunlight to produce energy.

Correct answer: The scientist who studied photosynthesis grew up in Germany.

A scientist's birthplace has no bearing on how photosynthesis works. It is irrelevant to the scientific topic of the passage.

Question 19: Labor unions were ruled not to be illegal conspiracies provided that their methods were honorable and peaceful in which Supreme Court Case?

Commonwealth vs. Hunt (1842) (Correct answer)
Brown v. Board of Education (1954)
Munn v. Illionis (1876)
Plessy v. Ferguson (1896)

Correct answer: Commonwealth vs. Hunt (1842)

The landmark Supreme Court case Commonwealth v. Hunt (1842) ruled that labor unions were not inherently illegal conspiracies, provided their methods were 'honorable and peaceful.' This decision was a significant victory for the early labor movement in the United States. It legitimized unions and paved the way for their future growth and collective bargaining efforts.

Question 20: A passage argues that implementing a four-day school week would improve student well-being and academic focus. The author supports this claim by citing a study showing increased attendance and higher test scores in a district that adopted the new schedule. The author also includes an anecdote from a teacher in that district who observed that her students seemed more rested and engaged. Which of the following best describes the role of the teacher's anecdote in the author's argument?

It refutes the findings of the cited study.
It introduces a counterargument to the author's main claim.
It provides the primary statistical evidence for the argument.
It offers qualitative, personal evidence to complement the statistical data. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It offers qualitative, personal evidence to complement the statistical data.

The anecdote from the teacher provides a personal observation ('seemed more rested and engaged'). This is not statistical (quantitative) data like the study, but rather a personal, descriptive (qualitative) account that supports the main argument alongside the formal data.

Question 21: The suffix '-ed' in 'jumped' is pronounced as which sound?

/t/ (Correct answer)
/id/
/d/
/ed/ as a separate syllable

Correct answer: /t/

After the voiceless /p/ in 'jump,' the '-ed' ending is pronounced /t/.

Question 22: Which sentence correctly uses the word 'fewer' vs. 'less'?

There is less books on the shelf.
There are fewer water in the bottle.
There are less students in class today.
There are fewer students in class today. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: There are fewer students in class today.

'Fewer' is used with countable nouns like 'students.' 'Less' is used with uncountable nouns.

Question 23: Identify the sentence with correct comma usage in a series.

We need bread, milk and, eggs.
We need bread milk and eggs.
We need, bread milk and eggs.
We need bread, milk, and eggs. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: We need bread, milk, and eggs.

Commas separate items in a series, including before the conjunction.

Question 24: Identify the sentence with correct pronoun usage.

The principal spoke with her and me. (Correct answer)
Him and I finished the project.
The award went to she and her partner.
Between you and I, the test was easy.

Correct answer: The principal spoke with her and me.

Object pronouns "her" and "me" are correct after the preposition "with."

Question 25: Hector was known as "Slim", because of his gaunt appearance.

known as Slim because
known as “Slim” because (Correct answer)
known as “Slim”; because
known as “Slim”, because
known as “Slim because

Correct answer: known as “Slim” because

The comma after "Slim" is incorrectly placed. When a quoted word or phrase is integrated into a sentence and is not a full quotation, punctuation like commas should typically not be placed inside the closing quotation mark unless it is part of the quoted material itself. Additionally, a comma is generally not used directly before "because" when it introduces a clause that is essential to the meaning of the sentence, explaining the reason.

Question 26: A scientific article describes a study with a sample size of 12 people. What should a critical reader note about this study?

The small sample size limits how broadly the results can be generalized. (Correct answer)
The study is highly reliable because it involved real people.
Small samples are always more accurate than large ones.
The study is invalid because it should have used animals.

Correct answer: The small sample size limits how broadly the results can be generalized.

Small sample sizes reduce statistical power and limit the generalizability of findings to broader populations.

Question 27: A text about the benefits of exercise includes the sentence: 'Exercise is the most important factor in maintaining good health.' What type of claim is this?

A qualified claim with appropriate hedging
An absolute claim that may be an overstatement (Correct answer)
A fact supported by universal scientific consensus
A proven medical fact

Correct answer: An absolute claim that may be an overstatement

Calling exercise 'the most important factor' is an absolute claim that oversimplifies health, ignoring nutrition, genetics, sleep, and other factors.

Question 28: On a real number line, x =-4 and y = 7. What is the length of the line XY?

- 11
11 (Correct answer)
3

Correct answer: 11

The length of a line segment on a real number line between two points x and y is found by taking the absolute difference of their coordinates. Given x = -4 and y = 7, the length is |y - x|. Calculating this, we get |7 - (-4)|, which simplifies to |7 + 4|. This equals |11|, and the absolute value of 11 is 11. Thus, the length of the line segment XY is 11 units.

Question 29: Identify the sentence with correct subject-verb agreement.

Neither the teacher nor the students was ready.
Neither the teacher nor the students has been ready.
Neither the teacher nor the students is ready.
Neither the teacher nor the students were ready. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Neither the teacher nor the students were ready.

With "neither...nor," the verb agrees with the nearer subject, "students."

Question 30: Which sentence correctly uses "affect" as a verb?

The weather had no affect on plans.
The weather did not effect our plans.
The weather affect our plans badly.
The weather did not affect our plans. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The weather did not affect our plans.

"Affect" is the verb meaning to influence.

Question 31: Which of the following is a run-on sentence?

The test was hard; however, most students passed.
The test was hard most students still passed. (Correct answer)
The test was hard, but most students passed.
Although the test was hard, most students passed.

Correct answer: The test was hard most students still passed.

Option B joins two independent clauses without any punctuation or conjunction, making it a run-on sentence.

Question 32: If Todd can type 60 word a minute, how long will it take him to type a 15,000 word document?

2 hours and 45 minutes
4 hours and 10 minutes (Correct answer)
2 hours

Correct answer: 4 hours and 10 minutes

To find the total time, divide the total number of words by Todd's typing speed. 15,000 words / 60 words per minute = 250 minutes. To convert minutes to hours, divide by 60: 250 / 60 = 4 with a remainder of 10. This means it will take 4 hours and 10 minutes.

Question 33: John's sock drawer contains 4 pairs of green socks, 7 pairs of black socks, and 7 pairs of red socks. If John reaches into the drawer at random, what are his chances of NOT selecting a pair of green socks?

1/3
7/9 (Correct answer)
2/5

Correct answer: 7/9

First, calculate the total number of sock pairs: 4 (green) + 7 (black) + 7 (red) = 18 pairs. Next, determine the number of pairs that are NOT green, which are the black and red socks: 7 + 7 = 14 pairs. The probability of not selecting a pair of green socks is the number of non-green socks divided by the total number of socks, which is 14/18. This fraction simplifies to 7/9.

Question 34: In context, the word 'curtail' in 'The mayor moved to curtail unnecessary spending' most nearly means:

Expand
Investigate
Approve
Reduce (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Reduce

To curtail means to cut back or reduce, fitting the context of limiting unnecessary spending.

Question 35: A reader encounters a headline that exaggerates while the article itself is measured. This mismatch should prompt the reader to:

Assume the article is fictional
Ignore the article completely
Trust the headline over the article
Read the full article before judging the claim (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Read the full article before judging the claim

Reading the full article guards against being misled by a sensational headline.

Question 36: A portfolio assessment is most useful for measuring which of the following?

Speed of recall
Growth and development over time (Correct answer)
Class ranking
Single-moment factual knowledge

Correct answer: Growth and development over time

Portfolios collect work over time, making them ideal for documenting student growth.

Question 37: A paraprofessional supports a student with autism in class. The teacher should:

Plan together and remain the primary instructional leader (Correct answer)
Hand off all responsibility for that student to the paraprofessional
Have the paraprofessional grade all assignments independently
Avoid giving the paraprofessional any direction

Correct answer: Plan together and remain the primary instructional leader

The certified teacher retains instructional responsibility while collaborating with and directing the paraprofessional.

Question 38: Which word correctly completes the sentence? "The committee made ____ decision after long debate."

its'
its (Correct answer)
their's
it's

Correct answer: its

"Its" is the possessive form; "it's" means "it is."

Question 39: If Dave drives at a steady speed of 50 miles per hour, how long will it take him to drive 10 miles?

15 minutes
30 minutes
12 minutes (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 12 minutes

To find the time it takes to drive a certain distance at a steady speed, use the formula time = distance / speed. Dave drives 10 miles at 50 miles per hour. So, time = 10 miles / 50 mph = 1/5 of an hour. To convert this to minutes, multiply by 60 (since there are 60 minutes in an hour): (1/5) * 60 minutes = 12 minutes.

Question 40: An author writes, 'The factory's output tripled, suggesting that the new equipment was effective.' The word 'suggesting' indicates the statement is:

A direct quotation
An inference drawn from evidence (Correct answer)
An established scientific law
An unsupported opinion

Correct answer: An inference drawn from evidence

'Suggesting' shows the author is drawing a reasonable conclusion from the data rather than stating proven fact.

Question 41: Which sentence correctly uses "lie" or "lay"?

I am going to lying down for a nap.
I am going to lay down for a nap.
I am going to laid down for a nap.
I am going to lie down for a nap. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: I am going to lie down for a nap.

"Lie" means to recline; "lay" requires a direct object.

Question 42: Which of the following correctly demonstrates a restrictive clause?

The teacher who, won an award, retired last year.
The teacher, who won an award retired last year.
The teacher, who won an award, retired last year.
The teacher who won an award retired last year. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The teacher who won an award retired last year.

A restrictive clause is essential to the meaning of the sentence and should NOT be set off by commas. Option B correctly omits commas.

Question 43: Why did the shipping company ask Edison to fetch the captain?

D: another captain had recently died (Correct answer)
A: he was a better captain
C: another captain had retired
B: to stop trees from being cut down
D: another captain had recently died

Correct answer: D: another captain had recently died

In the context of a shipping company needing a new captain, the most direct and critical reason for such an urgent request would be the sudden unavailability of the previous captain. The death of a captain would necessitate immediate action to find a replacement to ensure the continuity of shipping operations.

Question 44: Which word demonstrates an r-controlled vowel?

bead
bide
bid
bird (Correct answer)

Correct answer: bird

In 'bird' the 'r' alters the vowel sound, producing the r-controlled /ur/ sound.

Question 45: Which scoring approach uses an analytic rubric?

Ranking essays from best to worst
Marking only correct or incorrect
Awarding one overall impression score
Scoring separate criteria such as organization, evidence, and mechanics individually (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Scoring separate criteria such as organization, evidence, and mechanics individually

Analytic rubrics break performance into distinct criteria each scored separately.

Question 46: A teacher notices a colleague is struggling with classroom management. The most collegial response is to:

Tell other staff about the problem
Ignore it as none of their business
Report them to the principal immediately
Offer support, resources, or to co-plan (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Offer support, resources, or to co-plan

Supportive collegiality means offering help and resources rather than judgment or gossip.

Question 47: What is the function of a heading in an informational text?

To provide the author's personal opinion on the section
To provide a list of sources used
To organize and preview the content of the section that follows (Correct answer)
To summarize the entire article

Correct answer: To organize and preview the content of the section that follows

Headings organize informational texts into sections and preview the topic of the content that follows.

Question 48: What does 'coherence' mean in the context of essay writing?

Writing long, complex paragraphs
The logical flow and connectedness of ideas throughout the essay (Correct answer)
Including a large number of sources
Using many different sentence structures

Correct answer: The logical flow and connectedness of ideas throughout the essay

Coherence refers to the quality of an essay where ideas flow logically and are clearly connected to one another and to the thesis.

Question 49: What happens to light when it passes from air into a denser medium such as water?

It speeds up and bends away from the normal.
It slows down and bends toward the normal (refraction). (Correct answer)
It is completely absorbed by the water.
It travels at the same speed but changes color.

Correct answer: It slows down and bends toward the normal (refraction).

When light enters a denser medium, it slows down and bends toward the normal — this is refraction. It causes the apparent bending of objects in water.

Question 50: Which sentence correctly uses an apostrophe for a plural possessive?

The students' projects were displayed. (Correct answer)
The students projects' were displayed.
The students's projects were displayed.
The student's projects were all displayed by groups.

Correct answer: The students' projects were displayed.

For a plural noun ending in -s, add only an apostrophe after the s.

Question 51: Which of the following scenarios is the best example of a formative assessment?

Asking students to give a thumbs-up or thumbs-down to indicate their understanding of a concept during a lesson. (Correct answer)
Having students complete a K-W-L chart at the start of a new unit.
Using a standardized state achievement test to measure year-end progress.
Administering a final exam at the end of a semester.

Correct answer: Asking students to give a thumbs-up or thumbs-down to indicate their understanding of a concept during a lesson.

Formative assessments are ongoing, in-process evaluations used to monitor student learning and adjust instruction. The thumbs-up/thumbs-down check is a quick, informal method for the teacher to gauge understanding in real-time and decide whether to reteach, move on, or provide clarification. The other options are examples of summative (A, C) and diagnostic (B) assessments.

Question 52: Which sentence corrects the subject-verb agreement error? "The list of approved textbooks were posted online."

The list of approved textbooks were posted online.
The lists of approved textbook were posted online.
The list of approved textbooks are posted online.
The list of approved textbooks was posted online. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The list of approved textbooks was posted online.

The subject "list" is singular, so it takes the singular verb "was."

Question 53: The word "ravished" probably means:

A: burned
B: uplifted
C: dangerous
E: cleared of trees (Correct answer)
D: dark

Correct answer: E: cleared of trees

The word 'ravished' can mean to seize, devastate, or lay waste to something. In the context of a landscape or forest, 'cleared of trees' aligns with the idea of a destructive or transformative act. This interpretation suggests the area was stripped of its natural vegetation, likely by human activity.

Question 54: A passage states: 'Many experts believe that early reading instruction significantly impacts lifelong literacy.' What type of claim is this?

A verifiable fact
An opinion of all experts worldwide
A fictional premise
A qualified claim citing expert consensus (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A qualified claim citing expert consensus

'Many experts believe' qualifies the claim, indicating it is based on expert consensus rather than a universal fact or single opinion.

Question 55: A school district administers a standardized science test. A student's score report indicates that they scored in the 85th percentile. This means the student:

Performed as well as or better than 85% of the other students who took the test. (Correct answer)
Has mastered 85% of the science content standards for their grade level.
Answered 85% of the questions correctly.
Is ready to advance to the next grade level in science.

Correct answer: Performed as well as or better than 85% of the other students who took the test.

This is a norm-referenced score. Norm-referenced assessments compare a student's performance to that of a representative group of other students (the 'norm group'). A percentile rank indicates the percentage of test-takers who scored at or below a particular score. Therefore, scoring in the 85th percentile means the student outperformed 85% of their peers.

Question 56: In 1803, the Supreme Court's ruling in Marbury v. madison altered the balance of power in the federal government. What was the result of the ruling in this case?

The judicial branch having the power to determine the winners of presidential elections.
Those accused of breaking laws were not considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The judicial branch has the authority to determine the constitutionality of laws. (Correct answer)
The process for approval for cabinet positions now included review by the Supreme Court.

Correct answer: The judicial branch has the authority to determine the constitutionality of laws.

The Marbury v. Madison (1803) Supreme Court case established the principle of judicial review. This landmark decision asserted the Supreme Court's power to declare an act of Congress unconstitutional. It thereby defined the role of the judiciary as an interpreter of the Constitution and a crucial check on the legislative and executive branches.

Question 57: Which development resulted from the influence of Christian fundamentalism on 20th century politics?

Emphasis on consumer culture
Focus on moral issues (Correct answer)
Promotion of gender equality
Establishment of welfare programs

Correct answer: Focus on moral issues

Christian fundamentalism, particularly in the latter half of the 20th century, significantly influenced politics by advocating for policies based on conservative moral and religious values. This led to a strong focus on issues such as abortion, prayer in schools, family values, and opposition to LGBTQ+ rights, often mobilizing voters around these specific moral concerns.

Question 58: An author includes a graph showing rising temperatures alongside a paragraph about climate change. The graph most likely functions to:

Provide quantitative support for the text's claims (Correct answer)
Add decorative color to the page
Replace the need to read the paragraph
Contradict the written argument

Correct answer: Provide quantitative support for the text's claims

Visuals like graphs typically reinforce the text by supplying data that supports the author's points.

Question 59: What was the basic reason for the formation of the Populist Party?"

D: the popularity of the gold standard
B: the plight of farmers (Correct answer)
C: the fairness of the tariff
E: the failure of the National Farmer’s Alliance
A: the success of the Grange

Correct answer: B: the plight of farmers

The Populist Party, or People's Party, emerged in the late 19th century primarily as a response to the severe economic hardships faced by American farmers. Farmers were struggling with low crop prices, high railroad rates, and heavy debt, leading them to seek political solutions to their plight.

Question 60: Solve: 3/5 - (-2) =

- 5/13
13/5 (Correct answer)
- 13/5

Correct answer: 13/5

The problem involves subtracting a negative number, which is equivalent to adding its positive counterpart. Therefore, 3/5 - (-2) becomes 3/5 + 2. To combine these, convert the whole number 2 into a fraction with a common denominator of 5, making it 10/5. Adding 3/5 and 10/5 results in 13/5.

Question 61: Tim's socks are strewn around in a drawer. There are four pairs of blue socks, eight pairs of black socks, and four pairs of brown socks. He pulls a blue sock from the drawer at random. What are the chances that the second sock he picks up will be blue as well?

1/16
1/4
3/16
1/5 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 1/5

Initially, there are 4 blue socks, 8 black socks, and 4 brown socks, assuming 'pairs' refers to the number of individual socks of that color (e.g., 4 blue socks, not 4 pairs or 8 individual blue socks). This gives a total of 4 + 8 + 4 = 16 socks. After Tim pulls one blue sock, there are 3 blue socks remaining and a total of 15 socks left in the drawer. The probability of picking another blue sock is then the number of remaining blue socks divided by the total remaining socks, which is 3/15, simplifying to 1/5.

Question 62: What is the least common multiple (LCM) of 4 and 6?

2
12 (Correct answer)
24
4

Correct answer: 12

Multiples of 4: 4,8,12,16... Multiples of 6: 6,12,18... Least common multiple = 12.

Question 63: What are tectonic plates, and what evidence supports their movement?

Tectonic plates only exist under oceans.
Tectonic plates are atmospheric layers; evidence comes from air pressure changes.
Tectonic plate theory is not supported by scientific evidence.
Tectonic plates are large sections of Earth's crust and upper mantle; evidence includes seafloor spreading, fossil patterns, and matching coastlines. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Tectonic plates are large sections of Earth's crust and upper mantle; evidence includes seafloor spreading, fossil patterns, and matching coastlines.

Tectonic plates are massive pieces of Earth's lithosphere. Multiple lines of evidence — matching coastlines, fossil distribution, seafloor spreading, earthquake/volcano patterns — support their movement.

Question 64: A standardized test reports a stanine score of 5. How should this be interpreted?

Average performance (Correct answer)
Well below average
Well above average
A failing score

Correct answer: Average performance

Stanines range 1-9 with 5 representing the middle, or average, performance band.

Question 65: A teacher is teaching students that the prefix 'un-' means 'not.' Which word study approach is this?

Phonemic awareness
Syllabication
Morphological analysis (Correct answer)
Phonics decoding

Correct answer: Morphological analysis

Teaching prefixes, suffixes, and roots is morphological analysis — the study of word structure and meaning units.

Question 66: Round 3,847 to the nearest hundred.

3,850
3,900
4,000
3,800 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 3,800

The tens digit is 4, so we round down to 3,800.

Question 67: A reader wants to verify a statistic cited in an article. The best source to check is:

A personal blog summarizing the topic
A social media reaction to the article
A comment posted below the article
The original study referenced by the author (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The original study referenced by the author

The original cited study is the primary source and the most authoritative place to confirm a statistic.

Question 68: Which of the following best describes an argumentative text?

A text that presents a claim and uses evidence to support it (Correct answer)
A text that describes a process step by step
A text that tells a fictional story with characters and plot
A text that compares two historical events

Correct answer: A text that presents a claim and uses evidence to support it

An argumentative text presents a claim (thesis) and supports it with evidence, reasoning, and sometimes counterarguments.

Question 69: What is a morpheme?

The smallest unit of meaning in a language (Correct answer)
A type of syllable pattern
A letter combination that makes a vowel sound
A unit of sound with no inherent meaning

Correct answer: The smallest unit of meaning in a language

A morpheme is the smallest unit of meaning in a language. 'Unhappiness' has three morphemes: un- (not) + happy (base) + -ness (state of being).

Question 70: What does 'scaffolding' mean in the context of instruction?

Using only visual aids in lessons
Decorating the classroom with educational materials
Providing temporary support to help students accomplish tasks they cannot yet do independently (Correct answer)
Assigning students to ability groups permanently

Correct answer: Providing temporary support to help students accomplish tasks they cannot yet do independently

Scaffolding refers to temporary instructional support that helps students reach learning goals, gradually removed as students gain competence.

Question 71: Identify the correct use of a colon in the following sentences.

She said: she would be late.
She arrived at: the destination on time.
She packed: her bags before the trip.
She needed three things: a map, a compass, and water. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: She needed three things: a map, a compass, and water.

A colon is correctly used after a complete independent clause to introduce a list. Option B has a complete clause before the colon followed by a list.

Question 72: A Response to Intervention (RTI) team meets to review a student's progress monitoring data. The teacher's main contribution is:

A request to remove the student from class
A vote to retain the student
Opinions about the student's home life
Classroom observations and intervention results (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Classroom observations and intervention results

Teachers provide data on classroom performance and intervention effectiveness to guide RTI decisions.

Question 73: A clothing retailer is offering a deal on boots with a 10% discount and gloves with a 15% discount. A pair of boots typically costs b, and a pair of gloves typically costs g. <br> Which of the following expressions best describes the total cost of one pair of boots and two pairs of gloves during this sale?

2.6bg
0.1b + 0.3g
0.75(b + g)
0.9b + 1.7g (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 0.9b + 1.7g

For boots, a 10% discount means the customer pays 90% of the original price, so the cost is 0.9b. For gloves, a 15% discount means the customer pays 85% of the original price, making one pair cost 0.85g. Since the question asks for the cost of one pair of boots and *two* pairs of gloves, the total cost is 0.9b + 2 * (0.85g), which simplifies to 0.9b + 1.7g.

Question 74: Written in scientific notation, the number 173,000,000,000 is:

173 x 109
17.3 x 1010
1.73 x 1011 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 1.73 x 1011

To write a number in scientific notation, place the decimal point after the first non-zero digit, creating a number between 1 and 10. For 173,000,000,000, this becomes 1.73. Then, count how many places the decimal point moved from its original position (at the end of the number) to its new position. The decimal moved 11 places to the left, so the power of 10 is 11, making the scientific notation 1.73 x 10^11.

Question 75: Mary reads a book every 45 minutes and finishes three chapters. How long does one chapter take her to read?

15 minutes (Correct answer)
35 minutes
1/2 hour
1 hour

Correct answer: 15 minutes

To determine how long it takes Mary to read one chapter, divide the total time she spends reading by the number of chapters she completes. She reads for 45 minutes and finishes three chapters, so 45 minutes divided by 3 chapters equals 15 minutes per chapter.

Question 76: Which sentence uses quotation marks correctly?

She said that 'she was tired.'
She said, I am tired.
She said, "I am tired." (Correct answer)
She said, 'I am tired.'

Correct answer: She said, "I am tired."

Direct speech should use double quotation marks in American English. Option C correctly uses double quotes with a comma before the quoted speech.

Question 77: Sigmund Freud claims that we often push unwanted ideas or urges into our unconscious to protect our ego. What is this defense mechanism called?

Repression (Correct answer)
Regression
Reaction Formation
Projection

Correct answer: Repression

According to Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic theory, repression is a fundamental defense mechanism where the ego unconsciously pushes distressing thoughts, memories, or urges out of conscious awareness into the unconscious mind. This process serves to protect the individual from anxiety or psychological pain associated with these unwanted ideas.

Question 78: What is the law of conservation of energy?

Energy is destroyed when objects stop moving.
Energy increases as objects move faster.
Energy can be created by magnets but not by electricity.
Energy cannot be created or destroyed; it can only be transformed from one form to another. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Energy cannot be created or destroyed; it can only be transformed from one form to another.

The law of conservation of energy states that the total energy in a closed system remains constant — energy cannot be created or destroyed, only converted between forms.

Question 79: Which behavior intervention strategy involves teaching a student a socially appropriate behavior that serves the same function as a problematic behavior?

Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA)
Token economy
Differential Reinforcement of Alternate Behavior (DRA) (Correct answer)
Extinction

Correct answer: Differential Reinforcement of Alternate Behavior (DRA)

DRA reinforces an alternative, appropriate behavior that achieves the same outcome for the student as the problem behavior, replacing it over time.

Question 80: Co-teaching in which one teacher leads while the other circulates to assist students is called:

Station teaching
Team teaching
One teach, one assist (Correct answer)
Parallel teaching

Correct answer: One teach, one assist

In the 'one teach, one assist' model, one teacher leads instruction while the other provides individual support.

Question 81: Which sentence uses "who" or "whom" correctly?

Whom is responsible for the supplies?
Who did you give the supplies to?
To who should I report?
Who is responsible for the supplies? (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Who is responsible for the supplies?

"Who" is the subject of the verb "is," so it is correct.

Question 82: What does it mean to make an inference from an informational text?

Drawing a logical conclusion based on evidence and reasoning (Correct answer)
Repeating information that is directly stated in the text
Finding errors in the author's argument
Summarizing the text in your own words

Correct answer: Drawing a logical conclusion based on evidence and reasoning

Inference involves reading between the lines — using stated evidence plus prior knowledge to draw conclusions not explicitly stated.

Question 83: A school is adopting a new school-wide behavior support system. A teacher disagrees with parts of it. What is the most professional approach?

Refuse to implement the system and use personal discipline methods instead.
Voice concerns through appropriate channels (team meetings, school improvement discussions) while implementing the system with fidelity in the classroom. (Correct answer)
Complain to parents about the school administration's decision.
Implement the system publicly but undermine it privately.

Correct answer: Voice concerns through appropriate channels (team meetings, school improvement discussions) while implementing the system with fidelity in the classroom.

Professional conduct involves implementing school policies with fidelity while using appropriate channels to raise concerns — not unilateral non-compliance or undermining the system.

Question 84: Which paragraph structure best supports a well-organized argumentative essay?

Evidence, introduction, body paragraphs
Introduction, body paragraphs with evidence, conclusion (Correct answer)
Introduction, conclusion, body paragraphs
Conclusion, evidence, introduction

Correct answer: Introduction, body paragraphs with evidence, conclusion

An effective argumentative essay follows the structure of introduction, body paragraphs with supporting evidence, and conclusion.

Question 85: Which is the best example of a vowel team (vowel digraph)?

boat (Correct answer)
bond
best
bump

Correct answer: boat

'Boat' uses the vowel team 'oa,' two vowels working together to make one long /o/ sound.

Question 86: An author concludes, 'Given these findings, schools should extend recess time.' The phrase 'Given these findings' signals that the conclusion is:

A direct quotation from a student
Based on the preceding evidence (Correct answer)
Unrelated to the evidence presented
A definition of recess

Correct answer: Based on the preceding evidence

'Given these findings' explicitly ties the recommendation to the evidence discussed earlier.

Question 87: A teacher gives the same test twice to the same group and gets similar scores. Which type of reliability is being measured?

Content validity
Test-retest reliability (Correct answer)
Internal consistency
Inter-rater reliability

Correct answer: Test-retest reliability

Test-retest reliability measures score consistency across two administrations of the same test.

Question 88: Which sentence is correctly punctuated with an appositive?

My brother, a teacher is arriving tomorrow.
My brother, a teacher, is arriving tomorrow. (Correct answer)
My brother a teacher is arriving tomorrow.
My brother a teacher, is arriving tomorrow.

Correct answer: My brother, a teacher, is arriving tomorrow.

A non-restrictive appositive is set off by commas on both sides. 'A teacher' is a non-restrictive appositive for 'my brother.'

Question 89: Choose the sentence with correct modifier placement: "The teacher returned the essays graded to the students."

The teacher graded returned the essays to the students.
The teacher returned to the students graded the essays.
The teacher returned the graded essays to the students. (Correct answer)
The teacher returned the essays graded to the students.

Correct answer: The teacher returned the graded essays to the students.

The adjective "graded" should directly precede the noun "essays" it modifies.

Question 90: She didn't answer him; she was concentrating on her paper.

E: No error (Correct answer)
A: didn’t
C: was concentrating
D: paper.
B: him;

Correct answer: E: No error

The sentence is grammatically correct. The semicolon is appropriately used to connect two closely related independent clauses. There are no errors in punctuation, word choice, or sentence structure.

Question 91: The day after the dance: he called her up at her parents' house and asked her to dinner.

D: to dinner.
C: parents’
B: he called her
A: dance: (Correct answer)
E: No error

Correct answer: A: dance:

A colon is used to introduce a list, an explanation, or a quotation, none of which apply here. The phrase "The day after the dance" is an introductory time phrase that should be followed by a comma to separate it from the independent clause that follows.

Question 92: A passage describes a new city recycling program, lists its costs, then states 'However, these expenses are minor compared to the long-term savings.' What is the author's primary purpose?

To criticize the city council's spending
To entertain readers with a story
To persuade readers the program is worthwhile (Correct answer)
To list the materials that can be recycled

Correct answer: To persuade readers the program is worthwhile

The contrast word 'However' and the emphasis on long-term savings signal the author is arguing in favor of the program.

Question 93: Which sentence best states an opinion rather than a fact?

The library opens at nine in the morning.
Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius at sea level.
The report contains forty pages.
The mountain trail is the most beautiful hike in the region. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The mountain trail is the most beautiful hike in the region.

'Most beautiful' reflects a personal judgment that cannot be verified, marking it as opinion.

Question 94: Which of the following words is correctly divided into syllables?

com-pu-ter (com/pu/ter) (Correct answer)
co-mpu-ter (co/mpu/ter)
c-om-pu-ter (c/om/pu/ter)
com-pute-r (comp/ute/r)

Correct answer: com-pu-ter (com/pu/ter)

Computer has three syllables: com-pu-ter. Syllable division follows the VC/CV pattern (between two consonants) and recognizes open/closed syllables.

Question 95: Which sentence uses 'lay' vs. 'lie' correctly?

She lay down for a nap. (Correct answer)
She lays down for a nap yesterday.
She laid down for a nap.
She lied down for a nap.

Correct answer: She lay down for a nap.

'Lay' is the past tense of 'lie' (to recline). 'She lay down' is the correct past tense form.

Question 96: What does it mean to 'chunk' a word while reading?

To skip unfamiliar words and continue reading
To use context clues to guess the word's meaning
To sound out each letter individually from left to right
To break a word into recognizable units (prefixes, roots, suffixes, or syllables) for decoding (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To break a word into recognizable units (prefixes, roots, suffixes, or syllables) for decoding

Chunking involves breaking a multisyllabic word into familiar parts — prefixes, root words, suffixes, or syllable patterns — to decode it efficiently.

Question 97: Which sentence uses the correct verb tense consistently?

She walked to the store and bought some milk. (Correct answer)
She walk to the store and buys some milk.
She walks to the store and bought some milk.
She walked to the store and buys some milk.

Correct answer: She walked to the store and bought some milk.

Both verbs are in the past tense, maintaining consistency.

Question 98: " You know how I feel" he said quietly.

E: No error
C: he said
D: quietly.
A: “You
B: feel” (Correct answer)

Correct answer: B: feel”

In American English, commas and periods that are part of the main sentence (not part of the quoted material) should be placed *inside* the closing quotation marks. The original sentence incorrectly places the quotation mark before the comma.

Question 99: A passage uses words like 'devastating,' 'tragic,' and 'alarming' to describe a flood. These word choices reveal the author's:

Indifferent tone
Neutral, objective tone
Concerned and emotional tone (Correct answer)
Humorous tone

Correct answer: Concerned and emotional tone

Charged, negative words convey a tone of concern and emotional intensity about the event.

Question 100: Which instructional approach uses letter tiles or magnetic letters to build and change words?

Word building / manipulation (Correct answer)
Sustained silent reading
Vocabulary journaling
Round-robin reading

Correct answer: Word building / manipulation

Manipulating letter tiles to make and change words is a hands-on word-building phonics activity.

Question 101: Which sentence correctly uses a semicolon?

The rain stopped, the sun came out.
The rain; stopped the sun came out.
The rain stopped; the sun came out. (Correct answer)
The rain stopped; and the sun came out.

Correct answer: The rain stopped; the sun came out.

A semicolon joins two related independent clauses without a conjunction.

Question 102: Identify the correctly punctuated sentence.

I bought apples oranges and bananas.
I bought apples, oranges and, bananas.
I bought apples, oranges, and bananas. (Correct answer)
I bought, apples, oranges, and bananas.

Correct answer: I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

Items in a series are separated by commas, including the optional Oxford comma.

Question 103: About how old was Edison when this story happened?

C: 45
B: 25
A: 28
D: 6
E: 14 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: E: 14

Historical accounts indicate that Thomas Edison was around 14 years old when he worked as a newsboy and 'candy butcher' on the Grand Trunk Railway. This period of his life is often associated with early entrepreneurial ventures and significant learning experiences, such as the one described in the passage.

Question 104: A number line from 0 to 1 is divided into 8 equal parts. A point is marked at the 5th tick mark. What fraction does this represent?

1/5
5/8 (Correct answer)
5/10
4/8

Correct answer: 5/8

With 8 equal parts, each part is 1/8. The 5th tick mark represents 5/8.

Question 105: What is the least common multiple (LCM) of 4 and 6?

2
10
24
12 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 12

The smallest number divisible by both 4 and 6 is 12.

Question 106: 3/27

1/9 (Correct answer)
1/10
1/2

Correct answer: 1/9

To simplify the fraction 3/27, find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and the denominator. Both 3 and 27 are divisible by 3. Dividing both by 3 gives 1 in the numerator and 9 in the denominator, resulting in the simplified fraction 1/9.

Question 107: Which sentence contains an error in parallel structure within a list?

The report must be accurate, concise, and clear.
The report must be accurately written, concise, and clear.
The report must be accurate, and it must be concise and clear.
The report must be accurate, concise, and clearly written. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The report must be accurate, concise, and clearly written.

Option A mixes adjectives ('accurate,' 'concise') with an adverb-adjective phrase ('clearly written'), breaking parallel structure.

Question 108: Which sentence correctly uses the past perfect tense?

By the time we arrived, the movie started.
By the time we arrived, the movie had started. (Correct answer)
By the time we arrived, the movie has started.
By the time we arrived, the movie starts.

Correct answer: By the time we arrived, the movie had started.

"Had started" shows the action was completed before another past action.

Question 109: A student is asked to place 3/4 and 7/8 on a number line. Which fraction is greater, and how do you know?

7/8, because it has a larger numerator
7/8, because it is closer to 1 whole than 3/4 (Correct answer)
3/4, because 3 is closer to 4 than 7 is to 8
They are equal because both are close to 1

Correct answer: 7/8, because it is closer to 1 whole than 3/4

7/8 is greater because it is closer to 1 whole: 3/4 = 6/8, and 6/8 < 7/8. Using benchmark fractions confirms 7/8 > 3/4.

Question 110: To find the central idea of a multi-paragraph article, a reader should look for:

Only the first word of each paragraph
The point all paragraphs work together to support (Correct answer)
Any unusual vocabulary term
The longest single sentence

Correct answer: The point all paragraphs work together to support

The central idea is the overarching point that every paragraph collectively develops.

Question 111: Why is the nominating stage important in the electoral process?

Only Republicans and Democrats can take part in the nomination process.
Major party candidates spend more money in an effort to win nominations than they do during general elections.
In a democracy, the general election is little more than a formality.
Nominations set real limits to the choices voters can make in general elections. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Nominations set real limits to the choices voters can make in general elections.

The nominating stage is crucial in the electoral process because it determines which candidates will actually appear on the general election ballot. By narrowing the field of contenders, nominations effectively set the boundaries for the choices voters can make in the final election. Without a successful nomination, a candidate cannot compete for office.

Question 112: In informational texts, what does 'denotation' mean?

The literal, dictionary definition of a word (Correct answer)
The author's purpose for using a specific word
The context in which a word is used
The emotional association a word carries

Correct answer: The literal, dictionary definition of a word

Denotation is the literal, dictionary meaning of a word, as opposed to connotation (emotional/cultural associations).

Question 113: What is the purpose of using transitional phrases in an essay?

To summarize the conclusion
To connect ideas and ensure coherent flow between sentences and paragraphs (Correct answer)
To introduce the thesis statement
To provide citations for sources

Correct answer: To connect ideas and ensure coherent flow between sentences and paragraphs

Transitional phrases link ideas together, helping the reader follow the logical progression of the argument.

Question 114: Choose the sentence that correctly uses "fewer" or "less."

She has less books than I do.
We need less chairs for the event.
There were fewer students in class today. (Correct answer)
There were less students in class today.

Correct answer: There were fewer students in class today.

"Fewer" is used with countable nouns like "students."

Question 115: Which sentence correctly uses a semicolon?

I have a big test; tomorrow night.
I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight. (Correct answer)
I have a big test tomorrow; and I will study.
I have a big test tomorrow; so I can't go out tonight.

Correct answer: I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight.

A semicolon joins two independent clauses without a conjunction.

Question 116: A student writes 'becuz' for 'because.' This invented spelling shows the student is:

Applying phonetic spelling based on sounds heard (Correct answer)
Unable to hear any phonemes
Confusing letter names with letter sounds
Reading above grade level

Correct answer: Applying phonetic spelling based on sounds heard

The spelling 'becuz' maps reasonably to the sounds in the word, showing phonemic awareness applied to spelling.

Question 117: A teacher says 'cake' and asks students to change the /k/ to /l/. This phonemic awareness task is:

Rhyme generation
Phoneme blending
Syllable counting
Phoneme substitution (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Phoneme substitution

Replacing one phoneme with another to make a new word is phoneme substitution.

Question 118: A student reads a graph showing literacy rates across several countries. The graph shows Country A with an 85% rate and Country B with a 62% rate. Which is a valid conclusion from the graph alone?

Students in Country A work harder than those in Country B.
Country A has a higher reported literacy rate than Country B. (Correct answer)
Country B's low literacy rate is caused by poverty.
Country A has a better education system than Country B.

Correct answer: Country A has a higher reported literacy rate than Country B.

The graph only shows reported rates. Drawing conclusions about causes, quality, or effort goes beyond the data shown.

Question 119: Read the passage below and answer the question that follows. 'The theory of plate tectonics, a concept that revolutionized Earth sciences, posits that the Earth's outer shell is divided into several plates that glide over the mantle, the rocky inner layer above the core. This movement is responsible for a wide range of geological phenomena, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and the formation of mountain ranges. Before this theory was widely accepted in the mid-20th century, various other hypotheses were proposed to explain these phenomena, but none could provide a comprehensive and unifying framework. The concept of continental drift, a precursor to plate tectonics, was initially met with significant skepticism primarily due to the lack of a clear mechanism to explain how continents could move.' Which of the following best describes the primary purpose of this passage?

To provide a brief overview and historical context of the theory of plate tectonics (Correct answer)
To detail the various types of geological phenomena
To explain the composition of the Earth's mantle and core
To argue against the theory of plate tectonics

Correct answer: To provide a brief overview and historical context of the theory of plate tectonics

The passage introduces the theory of plate tectonics, explains its basic principles, mentions its explanatory power for geological events, and provides historical context by mentioning its precursor and the initial skepticism. Therefore, its main purpose is to give a summary and background.

Question 120: Which is the best example of an instructional objective written in measurable terms?

Students will learn about history
Students will solve five two-digit addition problems with 80% accuracy (Correct answer)
Students will understand fractions
Students will appreciate poetry

Correct answer: Students will solve five two-digit addition problems with 80% accuracy

A measurable objective specifies an observable behavior and criterion for success.

Question 121: Which sentence correctly uses "who" versus "whom"?

To whom did you give the book? (Correct answer)
Whom is calling at this hour?
Whom wants dessert?
Who did you give the book to?

Correct answer: To whom did you give the book?

"Whom" is the object of the preposition "to."

Question 122: Which sentence correctly uses the semicolon with a conjunctive adverb?

The test was hard, however, most passed.
The test was hard; however, most passed. (Correct answer)
The test was hard, however most passed.
The test was hard however; most passed.

Correct answer: The test was hard; however, most passed.

A semicolon precedes "however" and a comma follows it when joining independent clauses.

Question 123: Suddenly she, laughed as she remembered a story she had been told.

she, laughed as she
laughed as she
she laughed as she (Correct answer)
she laughed as, she
she laughed; as she

Correct answer: she laughed as she

The comma placed between the subject "she" and its verb "laughed" is grammatically incorrect. There should be no punctuation separating a subject directly from its verb unless there is an intervening non-essential clause or phrase. Removing the extraneous comma creates a grammatically correct and smoothly flowing sentence.

Question 124: A teacher introduces a lesson by asking students what they already know about photosynthesis. Which instructional purpose does this serve?

Behavior management
Activating prior knowledge (Correct answer)
Curriculum mapping
Summative assessment

Correct answer: Activating prior knowledge

Eliciting what students already know activates prior knowledge and connects new content to existing schema.

Question 125: "These brief setbacks despite being annoying, did not dissuade Leonard from his long - term goals."

"B: annoying, "
A: setbacks despite (Correct answer)
C: Leonard
D: long-term goal.
E: No error

Correct answer: A: setbacks despite

The phrase "despite being annoying" is an introductory or parenthetical phrase that modifies "setbacks." It should be set off by commas to clearly separate it from the main clause. The correct punctuation would be "setbacks, despite being annoying, did not dissuade..."

Question 126: Until you sit down and talk to a person, you don't really know them.

you don’t really know them.
you do not really know him.
you don’t really know him or her. (Correct answer)
you do not really know them.
you don’t know them really.

Correct answer: you don’t really know him or her.

The original sentence uses the plural pronoun "them" to refer to the singular antecedent "a person." To maintain subject-verb agreement and avoid gender bias, the singular, gender-neutral "him or her" is the most appropriate choice. This ensures the pronoun correctly matches the singular noun it replaces.

Question 127: Which sentence avoids a dangling modifier?

Running to catch the bus, the backpack opened.
Running to catch the bus, I dropped my backpack. (Correct answer)
Running to catch the bus, my backpack fell open.
Running to catch the bus, the door slammed.

Correct answer: Running to catch the bus, I dropped my backpack.

The modifier "Running to catch the bus" correctly describes "I," the subject.

Question 128: Identify the sentence with no double negative.

I don't have no homework.
She can't hardly wait.
We didn't see nobody.
I don't have any homework. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: I don't have any homework.

"Don't have any" avoids the double negative found in the other options.

Question 129: A teacher wants to ensure her lesson on photosynthesis addresses multiple levels of the cognitive domain, according to the revised Bloom's Taxonomy. Which of the following sets of student activities best represents a progression from a lower-order to a higher-order thinking skill?

Creating a diagram of the process, then listing the key components.
Applying the concept to a new scenario, then identifying the reactants and products.
Recalling the chemical equation for photosynthesis, then designing an experiment to test a variable affecting plant growth. (Correct answer)
Analyzing the impact of limited sunlight, then explaining the process in their own words.

Correct answer: Recalling the chemical equation for photosynthesis, then designing an experiment to test a variable affecting plant growth.

According to the revised Bloom's Taxonomy, the cognitive levels progress from lower-order to higher-order thinking skills: Remembering, Understanding, Applying, Analyzing, Evaluating, and Creating. [2, 5] Recalling the chemical equation is at the 'Remembering' level. Designing an experiment is at the 'Creating' level, which is the highest level of cognitive skill in the revised taxonomy. [4] This option shows a clear progression from a basic skill to a highly complex one.

Question 130: A teacher pairs a struggling reader with a more capable peer for guided practice. This leverages:

Behaviorist drill only
Summative assessment
The zone of proximal development (Correct answer)
Norm-referenced grading

Correct answer: The zone of proximal development

Peer support within the zone of proximal development helps learners achieve with guidance what they cannot do alone.

Question 131: What is the difference between an element and a compound?

An element is larger than a compound.
Elements are natural; compounds are man-made.
An element is a mixture; a compound is a pure substance.
An element contains only one type of atom; a compound contains two or more types of atoms chemically bonded together. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: An element contains only one type of atom; a compound contains two or more types of atoms chemically bonded together.

An element is a pure substance with only one kind of atom (e.g., oxygen, gold). A compound is a substance formed when two or more elements are chemically bonded in fixed ratios (e.g., water = H₂O).

Question 132: What is the perfect square of these numbers?

169 (Correct answer)
65
80
150

Correct answer: 169

A perfect square is an integer that can be expressed as the product of an integer multiplied by itself. Among the given options, 169 is a perfect square because it is the result of 13 multiplied by 13 (13 * 13 = 169). The other numbers (65, 150, 80) cannot be expressed as the square of an integer.

Question 133: What is 25% of 80?

15
40
20 (Correct answer)
25

Correct answer: 20

25% of 80 = 0.25 × 80 = 20.

Question 134: " On a saturday night in the spring, the Jacksons threw an anniversary party for Henry and Jackie."

E: No error
B: Jacksons
A: saturday night (Correct answer)
D: for Henry and Jackie.
C: an anniversary party

Correct answer: A: saturday night

Days of the week, such as "Saturday," are proper nouns and should always be capitalized. The original sentence incorrectly uses a lowercase "s" for "saturday."

Question 135: Which sentence corrects the comma splice? "The experiment failed, the hypothesis was wrong."

The experiment failed; the hypothesis was wrong. (Correct answer)
The experiment failed the hypothesis was wrong.
The experiment, failed the hypothesis was wrong.
The experiment failed, the hypothesis, was wrong.

Correct answer: The experiment failed; the hypothesis was wrong.

A semicolon correctly joins two related independent clauses.

Question 136: In 'The committee gave its tacit approval by remaining silent,' the word 'tacit' most nearly means:

Strongly opposed
Formally written
Loud and public
Unspoken or implied (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Unspoken or implied

'Tacit' means understood without being stated, which fits approval shown through silence.

Question 137: Identify the correctly written sentence.

She could of did better on the exam.
She could had done better on the exam.
She could have done better on the exam. (Correct answer)
She could of done better on the exam.

Correct answer: She could have done better on the exam.

"Could have" is correct; "could of" is a common error.

Question 138: A student reads 'kn' words (knit, knife, knight) without knowing the 'k' is silent. What phonics concept is the teacher addressing when correcting this?

Silent letter patterns (Correct answer)
Vowel digraphs
Consonant blends
Schwa sounds

Correct answer: Silent letter patterns

Words beginning with 'kn' contain a silent 'k' — a common silent letter pattern where two letters produce only one sound.

Question 139: Where does this passage take place?

E: Europe (Correct answer)
B: United States
C: Asia
A: Africa
D: Australia

Correct answer: E: Europe

Antwerp is a major city located in Belgium, which is a country in Western Europe. The presence of windmills, often associated with countries like Belgium and the Netherlands, further confirms a European setting for the passage.

Question 140: Which option corrects the following fragment: 'Because the roads were icy.'

Because, the roads were icy.
The roads were icy because.
Because the roads were icy, and slippery.
Because the roads were icy, the school was closed. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Because the roads were icy, the school was closed.

A sentence fragment lacks an independent clause. Option C adds 'the school was closed' to complete the sentence.

Question 141: What is a consonant blend?

A consonant followed by a silent letter
A vowel combined with a consonant
Two or more consonants in sequence where each retains its sound (Correct answer)
Two letters that represent a single sound

Correct answer: Two or more consonants in sequence where each retains its sound

A consonant blend has two or more consonants that each retain their own sound, like 'str' in 'string' (/s/-/t/-/r/).

Question 142: "I'm not sure about that," he said. "I can't really remember."

about that,” he said! “I can’t
about that.” He said. “I can’t
about that,” he said. “I can’t (Correct answer)
about that” he said. “I can’t
about that.” He said. “I can’t

Correct answer: about that,” he said. “I can’t

This sentence contains two distinct quoted sentences, each requiring proper punctuation. For the first quotation, "I'm not sure about that," the comma correctly precedes the closing quotation mark because the speaker tag "he said" follows within the same sentence structure. A period then correctly ends the first complete sentence, including the tag. The second quotation, "I can't really remember," begins a new sentence, so it starts with a capital letter and its own opening quotation mark, making option A the grammatically correct choice.

Question 143: It is a great glory to always be sitting among friends and kinfolk.

A: great glory
C: among friends
D: kinfolk.
E: No error
B: to always be (Correct answer)

Correct answer: B: to always be

The phrase "to always be sitting" is an example of a split infinitive, where the adverb "always" is placed between "to" and the base verb "be." While sometimes acceptable in informal speech, in formal writing, it is generally preferred to keep the infinitive intact. The more grammatically conventional phrasing would be "to be always sitting" or "always to be sitting."

Question 144: Select the sentence with correct verb agreement: "Each of the questions ___ worth two points."

is (Correct answer)
were
are
being

Correct answer: is

"Each" is singular, so the singular verb "is" is correct.

Question 145: Which sentence correctly uses "then" or "than"?

She is taller then her brother.
She is taller then, her brother.
She is taller than her brother. (Correct answer)
She is more taller then her brother.

Correct answer: She is taller than her brother.

"Than" is used for comparisons; "then" refers to time.

Question 146: Choose the sentence with correct modifier placement.

Almost she drove her kids to school every day.
She drove her kids to school almost every day. (Correct answer)
She almost drove her kids to school every day.
She drove almost her kids to school every day.

Correct answer: She drove her kids to school almost every day.

"Almost" should modify "every day," placing it closest to that phrase.

Question 147: When reading a multi-source text set, what skill is most important?

Synthesizing information by identifying agreements, contradictions, and gaps across sources (Correct answer)
Reading each source independently without comparing them
Summarizing only the most recent source
Choosing the longest source as the most credible

Correct answer: Synthesizing information by identifying agreements, contradictions, and gaps across sources

Synthesizing across multiple sources means integrating information, identifying where sources agree or conflict, and building a fuller understanding.

Question 148: What is the greatest legacy of the Phoenician civilization?

Pyramids
Alphabet (Correct answer)
Iron Tools
Monotheism
Merchant Ships

Correct answer: Alphabet

The Phoenicians are widely recognized for developing one of the earliest alphabetic writing systems, which was revolutionary for its simplicity compared to earlier pictographic or syllabic scripts. This alphabet was adopted and adapted by various cultures, including the Greeks, and became the foundation for most modern alphabets, making it their greatest legacy.

Question 149: A teacher asks students to identify the author's purpose in a public health pamphlet urging citizens to get vaccinated. What is the most likely purpose?

To persuade readers to take a specific health action (Correct answer)
To describe the scientific process of vaccine development
To inform readers about the history of vaccines
To entertain readers with stories about vaccines

Correct answer: To persuade readers to take a specific health action

A public health pamphlet urging a specific action (getting vaccinated) has a persuasive purpose — it wants to influence reader behavior.

Question 150: What is a 'schwa' sound?

The reduced, unstressed vowel sound /ə/ found in unstressed syllables (Correct answer)
A vowel sound that only occurs in closed syllables
A consonant sound that is always silent
A long vowel sound in a stressed syllable

Correct answer: The reduced, unstressed vowel sound /ə/ found in unstressed syllables

The schwa (/ə/) is the most common vowel sound in English — a reduced, unstressed 'uh' sound that appears in unstressed syllables (e.g., 'a' in 'about,' 'e' in 'taken').

Question 151: What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

They consume living plants as herbivores
They break down dead organisms and recycle nutrients back into the environment (Correct answer)
They produce energy from sunlight
They prey on secondary consumers

Correct answer: They break down dead organisms and recycle nutrients back into the environment

Decomposers (fungi, bacteria) break down dead organic matter, releasing nutrients back into the soil and environment, completing the nutrient cycle.

Question 152: Which word pair best illustrates a minimal pair useful for teaching phoneme discrimination?

big / large
bat / pat (Correct answer)
run / running
house / home

Correct answer: bat / pat

'Bat' and 'pat' differ by a single phoneme, making them a minimal pair for practicing sound discrimination.

Question 153: The most effective sequence for systematic phonics instruction generally moves from:

Multisyllabic words to single sounds
Silent reading to phonemic awareness
Comprehension strategies to letter sounds
Simple, high-utility patterns to more complex patterns (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Simple, high-utility patterns to more complex patterns

Systematic phonics follows a planned scope and sequence from simple, frequently used patterns to more complex ones.

Question 154: Which word demonstrates the 'y' acting as a vowel?

year
gym (Correct answer)
yellow
yes

Correct answer: gym

In 'gym,' the 'y' functions as a vowel, producing a short /i/ sound.

Question 155: Which of the following exists when a quantity supplied is greater than quantity demanded?

Price
Shortage
Equilibrium
Surplus (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Surplus

A surplus occurs in a market when the quantity of a good or service supplied by producers exceeds the quantity demanded by consumers at a given price. This imbalance indicates that there are more goods available than people are willing to buy, typically leading to downward pressure on prices as sellers try to clear excess inventory.

Question 156: What is the primary benefit of cooperative learning groups?

Promoting peer interaction and shared problem-solving (Correct answer)
Guaranteeing identical outcomes
Eliminating the need for assessment
Reducing teacher planning to zero

Correct answer: Promoting peer interaction and shared problem-solving

Cooperative learning builds social skills and lets students learn through peer interaction.

Question 157: Which of the following sentences uses the active voice?

The committee submitted the report. (Correct answer)
It was the committee that submitted the report.
The report was submitted by the committee.
The report had been submitted.

Correct answer: The committee submitted the report.

Active voice has the subject performing the action. In option B, 'the committee' (subject) performs 'submitted' (verb).

Question 158: Then he dropped them both, and the big one landed first - which he had thought it would do, and the little one landed second, which he had thought it would do.

one landed first: that
one landed first; which
one landed first—that
one landed first, which (Correct answer)
one landed first—which

Correct answer: one landed first, which

The phrase "which he had thought it would do" is a non-restrictive relative clause that provides additional, non-essential information about the preceding clause. Non-restrictive clauses are correctly set off by a comma. The original use of a hyphen (or an incorrect dash) is inappropriate for this grammatical structure, making the comma the correct punctuation to introduce the descriptive clause.

Question 159: What is the key difference between 'revising' and 'editing' in the writing process?

Revising focuses on content and structure; editing focuses on grammar and mechanics (Correct answer)
Editing focuses on content; revising focuses on spelling
Revising is done last and only fixes spelling
They are the same process

Correct answer: Revising focuses on content and structure; editing focuses on grammar and mechanics

Revising addresses higher-order concerns like argument and organization, while editing addresses lower-order concerns like grammar and punctuation.

Question 160: What does 'unitizing' mean in the context of place value?

Understanding that a group of ones can be treated as a single unit at a higher place value (Correct answer)
Measuring objects with standard units
Ordering numbers from smallest to largest
Converting fractions to decimals

Correct answer: Understanding that a group of ones can be treated as a single unit at a higher place value

Unitizing is the understanding that 10 ones can be treated as a single ten, 10 tens as a single hundred, etc. — foundational to place value.

Question 161: What distinguishes a 'structured literacy' approach to reading instruction?

An approach that integrates phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension in explicit, systematic instruction (Correct answer)
A focus exclusively on sight word memorization
An approach based primarily on guided reading groups
Emphasis on reading for pleasure without explicit skills instruction

Correct answer: An approach that integrates phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension in explicit, systematic instruction

Structured literacy is an explicit, systematic, multisensory approach that addresses all components of reading, particularly benefiting students with dyslexia.

Question 162: Identify the sentence free of a dangling modifier.

Walking to school, I got my jacket soaked by the rain. (Correct answer)
Walking to school, the rain soaked my jacket.
Walking to school, my jacket got soaked.
The rain, walking to school, soaked my jacket.

Correct answer: Walking to school, I got my jacket soaked by the rain.

The modifier "walking to school" correctly describes "I."

Question 163: Which transition word would best connect a cause to its result in an informational text?

Consequently (Correct answer)
Similarly
Meanwhile
For instance

Correct answer: Consequently

'Consequently' explicitly signals that what follows is a result of what came before.

Question 164: Choose the sentence where the modifier is correctly placed.

I eat only vegetables on Tuesdays.
Only I eat vegetables on Tuesdays.
I only eat vegetables on Tuesdays.
I eat vegetables only on Tuesdays. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: I eat vegetables only on Tuesdays.

Option D places 'only' directly before 'on Tuesdays,' clarifying that the restriction is about the day, not the food.

Question 165: In a co-teaching model, 'parallel teaching' means that:

Both teachers divide the class and simultaneously teach the same content to smaller groups (Correct answer)
Both teachers jointly plan but only one delivers instruction at a time
One teacher delivers primary instruction while the other teaches a small pull-out group
One teacher instructs while the other assists individual students

Correct answer: Both teachers divide the class and simultaneously teach the same content to smaller groups

In parallel teaching, the class is split into two groups and both teachers simultaneously deliver the same lesson to their respective smaller groups.

Question 166: What is the purpose of a text's central idea or main idea?

To present the strongest evidence in the text
To provide background history on the topic
To summarize each paragraph individually
To state what the text is primarily about (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To state what the text is primarily about

The central idea is the overarching point the author wants to communicate throughout the text. All supporting details relate back to it.

Question 167: A map has a scale of 1 inch : 25 miles. If the distance between two cities on the map is 5.2 inches, what is the actual distance between the cities in miles?

130 miles (Correct answer)
30.2 miles
125.2 miles
100 miles

Correct answer: 130 miles

This is a problem of direct proportion. The scale 1 inch : 25 miles can be set up as a ratio: 1/25. We need to find the actual distance (let's call it 'x') that corresponds to 5.2 inches on the map. We can set up the proportion: 1/25 = 5.2/x. To solve for x, we can cross-multiply: 1 * x = 25 * 5.2. Therefore, x = 130. The actual distance between the cities is 130 miles.

Question 168: A student reads two articles about climate change. Article 1 says human activity is the primary driver; Article 2 says natural cycles are more important. What skill does the student need to evaluate these conflicting claims?

Choosing the article written most recently
Rejecting both articles as unreliable
Evaluating the evidence quality, source credentials, and scientific consensus (Correct answer)
Accepting both articles as equally valid without further evaluation

Correct answer: Evaluating the evidence quality, source credentials, and scientific consensus

Conflicting claims require evaluating evidence quality, source expertise, methodology, and scientific consensus rather than relying on publication date alone.

Question 169: Which word best describes the villagers' attitude to the mill?

E: apathetic
B: annoyed
A: loyal (Correct answer)
D: calm
C: reverent

Correct answer: A: loyal

If the windmill is described with human-like qualities and is an old, established part of the community, it suggests a deep-seated connection and affection from the villagers. This implies a sense of loyalty, as they likely view the mill as a venerable and integral part of their heritage and daily lives.

Question 170: Which detail would best support the claim that 'public transit reduces traffic congestion'?

Some riders prefer listening to music
Cities with expanded rail saw a 20% drop in car commutes (Correct answer)
Transit stations are often located downtown
Buses come in many different colors

Correct answer: Cities with expanded rail saw a 20% drop in car commutes

A measured drop in car commutes after transit expansion directly supports the congestion-reduction claim.

Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (5752)

The Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (Core) tests measure academic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics deemed essential for all candidates entering teacher preparation programs.

170

Questions

270 min

Time Limit

65%

To Pass

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