Test Information Guide

Overview and Test Objectives
Field 77: Middle School Mathematics/Science

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
I Number System and Quantity 01–02 10%
II Algebra, Functions, and Modeling 03–07 12%
III Geometry and Measurement 08–11 10%
IV Statistics and Probability 12–13 8%
V Technology / Engineering 14–16 10%
VI Earth and Space Science 17–20 10%
VII Life Science 21–24 10%
VIII Physical Science 25–29 10%
80%
Open-Response
IX Integration of Knowledge and Understanding
Statistics, Probability, and Algebra 30 10%
Key Concepts in Earth and Space Science, Life Science, or Physical Science 31 10%
20%

Subarea I–Number System and Quantity

Objective 0001: Apply the structure and properties of number systems.
For example:
Objective 0002: Use rational numbers, ratios, and proportional relationships.
For example:

Subarea II–Algebra, Functions, and Modeling

Objective 0003: Use patterns to model and solve problems.
For example:
Objective 0004: Apply algebraic techniques to expressions and equations.
For example:
Objective 0005: Demonstrate knowledge of relations and functions.
For example:
Objective 0006: Apply the properties of linear relations and functions.
For example:
Objective 0007: Apply the principles and properties of nonlinear relations and functions.
For example:

Subarea III–Geometry and Measurement

Objective 0008: Apply principles, concepts, and procedures related to measurement.
For example:
Objective 0009: Apply the principles of Euclidean geometry and proof.
For example:
Objective 0010: Apply properties of two- and three-dimensional figures.
For example:
Objective 0011: Apply the principles and properties of coordinate and transformational geometries.
For example:

Subarea IV–Statistics and Probability

Objective 0012: Understand the principles, techniques, and applications of statistics.
For example:
Objective 0013: Understand the principles of probability.
For example:

Subarea V–Technology / Engineering

Objective 0014: Apply knowledge of engineering design.
For example:
Objective 0015: Demonstrate knowledge of tools, materials, and manufacturing.
For example:
Objective 0016: Demonstrate knowledge of technological systems.
For example:

Subarea VI–Earth and Space Science

Objective 0017: Demonstrate knowledge of the components of the solar system and universe and their interactions.
For example:
Objective 0018: Apply knowledge of Earth's geosphere, geologic history, and processes.
For example:
Objective 0019: Demonstrate knowledge of Earth's hydrosphere, atmosphere, weather, and climate.
For example:
Objective 0020: Demonstrate knowledge of natural resources, natural hazards, and human impacts on the environment.
For example:

Subarea VII–Life Science

Objective 0021: Demonstrate knowledge of the characteristics and processes of living organisms.
For example:
Objective 0022: Apply knowledge of the characteristics of populations, communities, ecosystems, and biomes.
For example:
Objective 0023: Apply principles related to the inheritance of characteristics.
For example:
Objective 0024: Demonstrate knowledge of principles related to the theory of biological evolution.
For example:

Subarea VIII–Physical Science

Objective 0025: Apply knowledge of the structure and properties of matter.
For example:
Objective 0026: Apply knowledge of the states of matter, particle motion, and heat.
For example:
Objective 0027: Apply knowledge of different forms of energy and the conservation of energy.
For example:
Objective 0028: Apply knowledge of the concepts of force, motion, work, and power.
For example:
Objective 0029: Apply knowledge of the characteristics and properties of waves, electricity, magnetism, and electromagnetism.
For example:

Subarea IX–Integration of Knowledge and Understanding

In addition to answering multiple-choice items, candidates will prepare written responses to assignments addressing content summarized in the objectives below.

Objective 0030: Prepare an organized, developed analysis on a topic related to one or more of the following: statistics, probability, and algebra.
For example:
Objective 0031: Prepare an organized, developed analysis of a topic related to key concepts in Earth and Space Science, Life Science, or Physical Science.
For example: