Test Information Guide

Overview and Test Objectives
Field 44: Speech

Test Overview

Table outlining the test format, number of questions, time, and passing score.
Format Computer-based test (CBT) and online proctored test; 100 multiple-choice questions, 2 open-response items
Number of Questions
  • Subarea I: 55–57 multiple-choice questions
  • Subarea II: 43–45 multiple-choice questions
  • Subarea III: 2 open-response items
Time 4 hours (does not include 15-minute CBT tutorial)
Passing Score 240

The Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) are designed to measure a candidate's knowledge of the subject matter contained in the test objectives for each field. The MTEL are aligned with the Massachusetts educator licensure regulations and, as applicable, with the standards in the Massachusetts curriculum frameworks.

The test objectives specify the content to be covered on the test and are organized by major content subareas. The chart below shows the approximate percentage of the total test score derived from each of the subareas.

The test assesses a candidate's proficiency and depth of understanding of the subject at the level required for a baccalaureate major according to Massachusetts standards. Candidates are typically nearing completion of or have completed their undergraduate work when they take the test.

Pie chart of approximate test weighting outlined in the table below.

Test Objectives

Table outlining test content and subject weighting by sub area and objective.
Subareas Range of Objectives Approximate Test Weighting
Multiple-Choice
I The Role of Public Speech in Democratic Societies 01–04 40%
II Public Speaking 05–08 40%
80%
Open-Response*
III Integration of Knowledge and Understanding 09 20%

*The open-response items may relate to topics covered in any of the subareas.

 

Subarea I–The Role of Public Speech in Democratic Societies

Objective 0001: Understand classical, modern, and contemporary theories of rhetoric.
Objective 0002: Understand the role of oratory, public argument, and debate in democratic societies.
Objective 0003: Understand the history of public discourse and debate in the United States.
Objective 0004: Understand ethical and legal decisions related to communication.

 

Subarea II–Public Speaking

Objective 0005: Understand the planning, preparation, and organization of public speeches.
Objective 0006: Understand effective speech delivery.
Objective 0007: Understand the principles of argumentation and debate.
Objective 0008: Understand persuasive communication.
For example:

 

Subarea III–Integration of Knowledge and Understanding

Objective 0009: Prepare an organized, developed analysis related to one or both of the following: the role of public speech in democratic societies, and public speaking.