Test Information Guide

Overview and Test Objectives
Field 65: Middle School Mathematics

Test Overview

Table outlining the test format, number of questions, time, and passing score.
Format Computer-based test (CBT); 85 multiple-choice questions, 2 open-response items
Number of Items by Subarea
  • Subarea I: 20–22 multiple-choice questions
  • Subarea II: 31–33 multiple-choice questions
  • Subarea III: 20–22 multiple-choice questions
  • Subarea IV: 10–12 multiple-choice questions
  • Subarea V: 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 Number System and Quantity 01–02 20%
II Algebra, Functions, and Modeling 03–07 30%
III Geometry and Measurement 08–11 20%
IV Statistics and Probability 12–13 10%
80%
Open-Response*
V Integration of Knowledge and Understanding
Mathematics Curriculum Framework: Concepts and Skills 14 10%
Statistics, Probability, and Algebra 15 10%
20%

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

Subarea I–Number System and Quantity

0001: Apply the structure and properties of number systems.

For example:

0002: Use rational numbers, ratios, and proportional relationships.

For example:

Subarea II–Algebra, Functions, and Modeling

0003: Use patterns to model and solve problems.

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0004: Apply algebraic techniques to expressions and equations.

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0005: Demonstrate knowledge of relations and functions.

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0006: Apply the properties of linear relations and functions.

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0007: Apply the principles and properties of nonlinear relations and functions.

For example:

Subarea III–Geometry and Measurement

0008: Apply principles, concepts, and procedures related to measurement.

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0009: Apply the principles of Euclidean geometry and proof.

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0010: Apply properties of two- and three-dimensional figures.

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0011: Apply the principles and properties of coordinate and transformational geometries.

For example:

Subarea IV–Statistics and Probability

0012: Understand the principles, techniques, and applications of statistics.

For example:

0013: Understand the principles of probability.

For example:

Subarea V–Integration of Knowledge and Understanding

0014: Prepare an organized, developed analysis on a topic cited from the Massachusetts Mathematics Curriculum Framework grades 5–8.

For example:

0015: Prepare an organized, developed analysis on a topic related to one or more of the following: statistics, probability, and algebra.

For example: