Hey guys. I failed my first attempt. I was honestly overconfident and didn’t do well at all. It is my fault for not preparing. However, I have been studying like crazy since then. One thing I noticed here recently is my approach to the questions. It seems like I get a “math block” when answering them. Did anyone else experience this? If you were able to overcome it, how did you prepare yourself for the test? To clarify what I mean by a math block, I completely forget the skills I learned because I’m worried about getting the wrong answer. I get frustrated easily when that happens.
Hello, all. This morning I took the 5161. I have a degree in high school chemistry and physics, but needed the math endorsement. The tricky thing is that I've been a stay-at-home mom for fifteen years. After a few months of several hours of review a day, I achieved an unofficial scaled score that is passing, but just by a few points. My question is in regard to the constructed (numerical) response questions. When these are scored, will they add to my raw score (if correct), or are they already calculated in by some manner? Perhaps this answer should seem obvious, but right now my brain is exhausted. Thank you for any help.
Thank you! I was a little surprised by the score. I thought I had bombed the test. The computer station I used had the keyboard and mouse wrapped in plastic (Covid precautions) and it took about twice the time to use the calculator as I expected. I never used even two hours when doing practice tests, so I did not expect to be rushed for time at all. I ended up using a best guess on about eight problems in the last ten minutes. I am hoping the score doesn't change. I have read through this thread, though, and see that sometimes the unofficial score scales down. I'm confident that if I do have to take it again that testing from home would help me navigate the graphing calculator more efficiently and I would have more time to finish completely. I would suggest the home testing option for anyone who is able during this time!
I, too, was afraid of a "math block". One thing I tried was writing down all formulas I had memorized on the provided scratch paper before I began answering questions. I really only consulted this sheet a few times throughout the test, but I didn't have the stress of recalling the formula while working through problems.
Were you able to pass and feel less pressure? I think that is what my main issue is. Every time I felt like I study and practiced I always would be extremely stressed.
One big suggestion I'd make about the Praxis... the testmakers don't care how you figure out the answer, just that you do. Most of the time with multiple choice questions, it ends up being quicker and easier to guess and check with the four answers they give you, rather than doing the math "the right way." So take advantage of that.
Excellent advice!! I think that is a major issue. I want to feel confident with my answers, but at the same time, not focus too much on doing the math "the right way".
I have been following this message board for sometime and I was hoping to get some advise. I have taken Praxis about nine times and it seems the more I study the lower my score gets. I have not taken math in over 15 years and my skills are rusty. While I am learning more each detail I study j find that my area of confusion is that the test does not focus on the topics one but rather how I can use the topics. My question is, has anyone noticed that the more you take the test, the harder the questions become the next time around?
The questions seemed to get somewhat easier for me. Once you get an idea about how the questions will be asked, it usually helps you in later attempts. The main thing is making sure you have a good plan going forward when taking the test.
