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Exam Overview
Exam Overview
The Praxis II Pennsylvania Grades 4–8 Subject Concentration: Mathematics (5158) exam is a certification assessment required for individuals seeking to teach middle-level mathematics in Pennsylvania.
This exam evaluates your ability to understand, apply, and analyze mathematics concepts aligned with Grades 4–8 standards.
Administering Body
Conducted by
Educational Testing Service (ETS)
Used by
Pennsylvania Department of Education for teacher certification
Exam Purpose
The exam ensures that you can:
- Demonstrate strong mathematical content knowledge
- Apply concepts to real-world and classroom-based problems
- Use logical reasoning and problem-solving strategies
- Interpret data, graphs, and mathematical relationships
Exam Pattern
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Test Format | Computer-based test |
| Question Types | Multiple-choice and numeric-entry |
| Total Questions | Approximately 60 questions |
| Time Duration | 2 hours (120 minutes) |
| Delivery Mode | Testing centers or approved remote testing |
Question Types
Selected-Response (Multiple-Choice)
- Choose the correct answer from given options
- Focus on conceptual understanding and accuracy
Numeric-Entry Questions
- Enter your answer directly
- No answer choices provided
- Requires precise calculation
Content Distribution
The exam covers multiple mathematical domains.
- Number and operations
- Algebra and functions
- Geometry and measurement
- Data analysis and probability
Each question may integrate more than one concept.
Scoring System
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Score Range | 100 to 200 |
| Passing Score (Pennsylvania) | Approximately 173 |
| Scoring Method | Based on correct responses |
| Penalty for Wrong Answers | No penalty |
Key point
Focus on accuracy and attempt all questions
Importance of the Exam
This exam plays a critical role in your teaching career.
- Required for teaching certification in Pennsylvania
- Validates your readiness to teach mathematics at the middle school level
- Demonstrates your ability to apply math in instructional settings
Skills Measured
The test focuses on practical application rather than memorization.
- Problem-solving and reasoning
- Mathematical modeling
- Interpretation of graphs and data
- Multi-step calculations
What This Means for Your Preparation
You should focus on:
- Understanding concepts, not just formulas
- Solving application-based problems
- Practicing under timed conditions
- Analyzing mistakes and improving accuracy
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