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Exam Overview
Test 8005 is given by computer. Almost all questions are single-answer multiple choice with four choices, and a few use interactive formats such as selecting every correct answer or dragging labels onto a diagram.
Key Facts About Praxis Test 8005
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Full name | Elementary Education Fundamentals: Science |
| Test code | 8005 |
| Program | Praxis, administered by ETS |
| Questions | 74 selected-response questions |
| Testing time | 90 minutes, with each content category timed separately at 30 minutes |
| Calculator | On-screen scientific calculator |
| Fee | $79 |
| Passing score | Set by each state |
| Delivery | Computer delivered |
The Three Content Categories
Content Categories and Weights
| Category | Approximate Questions | Weight | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| I Earth and Space Sciences | 24 | 32% | 30 minutes |
| II Life Sciences | 25 | 34% | 30 minutes |
| III Physical Sciences | 25 | 34% | 30 minutes |
The three categories carry almost equal weight, so no area can be skipped. Because each category has its own clock, time saved in one category cannot be spent in another.
Practices and Teaching Tasks
About 10 to 15 percent of the questions ask you to use a science and engineering practice, such as interpreting a data table or identifying the variable that was changed in an investigation. Another 10 to 15 percent place science content inside a classroom situation, such as choosing the best way to respond to a student's misconception or the most useful demonstration for a lesson goal. Section 4 teaches both.
How the Test Is Scored
Your raw score is the number of scored questions you answer correctly, converted to a scaled score. Some questions are being tried out and do not count, but they are not marked, so treat every question as if it counts. There is no penalty for a wrong answer, so answer every question.
Each state sets its own passing score. Check your state's requirement on the Praxis State Requirements page before you test.
Praxis Steps
In some states the Fundamentals tests can be taken in smaller sections called Steps. You may take the whole test at once or a single content category, and retake only the category you did not pass. Ask your state or preparation program whether Steps are available to you.
What Kinds of Questions to Expect
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