Test Information Guide

Overview and Test Objectives
Field 68: Elementary Mathematics

Test Overview

Table outlining the test format, number of questions, time, and passing score.
Format Computer-based test (CBT); 100 multiple-choice questions, 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
1 Number Systems and Operations 01–03 30%
2 Algebraic Thinking and Relations 04–07 20%
3 Geometry 08–09 15%
5 Measurement, Data, and Probability 10–12 15%
80%
Open-Response
5 Integration of Knowledge and Understanding
Skills, Models, and Situations Related to Mathematical Standards 13 10%
Analysis of Mathematical Problem Solving 14 10%
20%

 

Subarea 1–Number Systems and Operations

0001—Apply number theory, structures of numeration systems, and arithmetic properties to the real number system.

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0002—Demonstrate knowledge of the principles and operations related to whole numbers, decimals, and percents.

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0003—Understand principles and operations related to integers and fractions.

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Subarea 2–Algebraic Thinking and Relations

0004—Analyze patterns and the properties of functions and relations.

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0005—Understand how to manipulate and simplify algebraic expressions and translate problems into algebraic expressions, equations, and inequalities.

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0006—Understand properties and applications of ratios and proportions.

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0007—Analyze properties and applications of linear relations and functions.

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Subarea 3–Geometry

0008—Analyze the characteristics and properties of two- and three-dimensional figures.

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0009—Understand the principles and properties of coordinate and transformational geometry.

For example:

 

Subarea 4–Measurement, Data, and Probability

0010—Understand principles, concepts, and procedures related to measurement.

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0011—Understand the fundamental principles of probability.

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0012—Understand descriptive statistics and the methods used in collecting, organizing, reporting, and analyzing data.

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Subarea 5–Integration of Knowledge and Understanding

0013—Prepare an organized, developed analysis on a topic related to one or more of the following: number systems; operations; relations; algebraic thinking.

For example:

0014—Prepare an organized, developed analysis on a topic related to one or more of the following: measurement; data; geometry.

For example: