Test Information Guide

Overview and Test Objectives
Field 52: Academically Advanced

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: 61–63 multiple-choice questions
  • Subarea II: 37–39 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 Curricular Content 01–04 50%
II Promoting Learning in Academically Advanced Students 05–07 30%
80%
Open-Response*
III Application of Knowledge and Understanding 08 20%

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

 

Subarea I–Curricular Content

Objective 0001: Understand literature.
Objective 0002: Understand rhetoric and composition.
Objective 0003: Understand number theory, algebra, patterns, and functions.
Objective 0004: Understand geometry, trigonometry, data analysis, probability, and discrete mathematics.

 

Subarea II–Promoting Learning in Academically Advanced Students

Objective 0005: Understand the assessment of cognitive abilities and of problem-solving skills in academically advanced students.
Objective 0006: Understand reasons, uses, and research evidence for differentiated instructional and grouping practices for academically advanced students.
Objective 0007: Understand program options, supplements, and curricular resources for academically advanced students.

 

Subarea III–Application of Knowledge and Understanding

Objective 0008: Prepare an organized, developed analysis related to topics from one or more of the following: curricular content and promoting learning in academically advanced students.