Welcome to our website, your dedicated portal to the TExES Science of Teaching Reading (STR) (293) practice exam. At the top of the page, you’ll find easy access to our comprehensive practice test via a prominently placed button. This test is expertly designed to encompass the full scope and detail of the exam material, offering a deep dive into the content. Engaging with our practice tests not only demonstrates your readiness but also serves as a crucial strategy for pinpointing and addressing your weak spots, thus enhancing your study approach.

To further refine your preparation, especially in areas that demand more targeted attention, we have meticulously assembled specialized quizzes. These quizzes are tailored to address specific elements of the (STR) (293) exam, ensuring a more concentrated and efficient preparation experience.

TExES Science of Teaching Reading (293) Domain Exams

The TExES Science of Teaching Reading (293) exam is designed for educators in Texas who need to demonstrate proficiency in the foundational knowledge required for teaching reading. 

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the exam’s content domains:

Domain 1: Reading Pedagogy

  • Percentage of Exam: 13%
  • Content Description: This domain tests the candidate’s understanding of effective, research-based instructional practices in teaching reading. It focuses on assessing knowledge of developmentally appropriate pedagogical strategies to promote reading literacy across diverse student populations.

Welcome to your TExES Science Domain 1: Reading Pedagogy

Domain 2: Reading Development: Foundational Skills

  • Percentage of Exam: 43%
  • Content Description: This area evaluates the candidate’s knowledge of phonological and phonemic awareness, the alphabetic principle, basic and advanced phonics, word analysis skills, and the role of fluency in reading development.

Welcome to your TExES Science Domain 2: Reading Development: Foundational Skills

Domain 3: Reading Development: Comprehension

  • Percentage of Exam: 24%
  • Content Description: This domain assesses the ability to understand reading comprehension strategies and how to implement them. It includes evaluating the teacher’s skill in teaching students to derive meaning through various texts and using a range of texts for academic learning.

Welcome to your TExES Science Domain 3: Reading Development: Comprehension

Domain 4: Analysis and Response

  • Percentage of Exam: 20%
  • Content Description: This section tests the ability to analyze student data to inform reading instruction. It focuses on interpreting assessments and feedback, making data-driven decisions to improve student outcomes, and understanding students’ reading behaviors and their implications for teaching.

Welcome to your TExES Science Domain 4: Analysis and Response

Exam Domain% of ExamContent Description
Reading Pedagogy13%Focus on effective, research-based instructional practices and strategies for diverse populations.
Reading Development: Foundational Skills43%Assesses knowledge of phonological awareness, phonics, word analysis, and fluency.
Reading Development: Comprehension24%Evaluates understanding and teaching of comprehension strategies using various texts.
Analysis and Response20%Tests ability to analyze student data to inform instruction and improve outcomes.

Additional Important Details

  • Exam Format: The exam consists of selected-response questions.
  • Time Allotted: The total time for the exam is five hours.
  • Registration Fee: There is a fee associated with registering for the exam.
  • Preparation Materials: It’s crucial to review the official preparation manual and practice tests available from the Texas Education Agency and the Educational Testing Service. These resources provide sample questions and further explanations of the exam content.

TExES Science of Teaching Reading (293) Exam Breakdown

The TExES Science of Teaching Reading (STR) (293) Exam is a certification test for educators in Texas, specifically designed for those who are seeking certification as core subjects teachers at the early childhood through sixth grade (EC-6) level, as well as for English Language Arts and Reading teachers at the fourth through eighth grade (4-8) levels. This exam assesses a teacher’s knowledge and skills necessary to support reading development in students.

Breakdown of the Exam

The TExES STR exam includes a variety of content areas that reflect the essential components of teaching reading:

  1. Foundational Knowledge: This section tests understanding of the basic structure of language, including phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics. It also covers the historical and theoretical foundations of reading processes and instruction.
  2. Development of Reading: This focuses on how children learn to read and develop literacy skills over time, assessing knowledge of cognitive, linguistic, and physical processes that contribute to reading development.
  3. Reading Comprehension and Assessment: It evaluates the ability to teach and assess reading comprehension and strategies for improving students’ reading abilities. This part also includes understanding of formal and informal assessment methods.
  4. Reading Applications: This section tests knowledge of applying reading instruction techniques to support students in various content areas. It emphasizes practical application and integration of reading strategies across the curriculum.
  5. Multiple Choice Questions and Constructed-Response Assignments: The exam features multiple choice questions and at least one constructed-response assignment, which typically requires more in-depth explanation or demonstration of practical teaching strategies.

How to Become TExES STR (293) Certified

To become certified for the TExES Science of Teaching Reading (293), you’ll need to follow several steps and prepare effectively.

  1. Eligibility: First, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements. This exam is required for individuals pursuing teacher certification in various fields, including Early Childhood-Grade 6 and Grades 4-8, for both Core Subjects and English Language Arts and Reading​​.
  2. Preparation: Utilize available resources to prepare for the exam. This includes the official preparation manual, practice tests, and other resources provided on the Texas Educator Certification Examination website. These materials cover various exam topics such as reading pedagogy and development, and provide practice questions and answers​​.
  3. Registration: Register for the exam through the official Texas Educator Certification Examination Program website. Here you can choose your test date and location. The registration process is straightforward, and you’ll need to pay a fee of approximately $136​​.
  4. Exam Format: The exam consists of 90 selected-response questions and 1 constructed-response question, covering topics like reading development and pedagogy. You will have about five hours to complete it, including time for tutorials and agreements.
  5. Scoring: To pass, you need a minimum score of 240. Your score will be based on the correct answers to these questions. Results are usually available within a few weeks of testing​​.

Our Experience Teaching TExES Science of Teaching Reading (293) Candidates To Pass The Exam

At Career Employer, the creation of our TExES Science of Teaching Reading (STR) (293) practice tests has been a remarkable journey marked by significant achievements and challenging obstacles. This project has been shaped by the diverse subjects encompassed by the exam, with our steadfast aim to cater to the unique needs of our learners.

Each aspect of our strategy has been thoughtfully designed and implemented to ensure that every learner is thoroughly prepared to excel in the exam. Our commitment to providing a complete educational experience is evident in the comprehensive scope and detail of our practice materials, highlighting our dedication to the success of our students.

Teaching the TExES Science of Teaching Reading (293) certification course can be quite a fulfilling experience from a lecturer’s perspective. This certification is designed to ensure that educators have the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively teach reading in Texas schools. 

Here are several aspects that lecturers often consider when approaching this course:

  1. Curriculum Design: Lecturers need to design a comprehensive curriculum that covers all the essential components of the exam, which includes the foundations of reading instruction, curriculum and instruction, assessment and diagnostic teaching, and creating a literate environment. This requires staying updated with the latest educational research and Texas educational standards.
  2. Student Engagement: Engaging adult learners who are often practicing teachers themselves can be challenging. Lecturers use a variety of instructional strategies, such as interactive lectures, group discussions, and hands-on activities to maintain interest and promote active learning.
  3. Assessment Strategies: Given the nature of the certification, assessing students’ understanding effectively is crucial. This often involves using formative assessments throughout the course to gauge comprehension and readiness for the certification exam.
  4. Resource Provision: Lecturers must provide numerous resources to help students succeed. This includes study guides, practice exams, and reading materials that align with the TExES 293 content. Recommending additional resources such as online forums, peer study groups, and workshops is also common.
  5. Continuous Improvement: Feedback is vital in teaching, especially in a certification course. Lecturers often seek feedback from their students to refine and adjust their teaching methods and materials, ensuring they are as effective as possible.

For resources, lecturers commonly utilize:

  • Texas Education Agency (TEA): The TEA provides official guidelines and resources related to the TExES exams.
  • Educational Testing Service (ETS): As the administrator of the TExES exams, ETS offers detailed guides and practice tests.
  • University Resources: Many universities provide specific resources and preparatory courses for their students and alumni.

These resources are not only beneficial for the students but also help lecturers stay informed and effective in their teaching methods. Unfortunately, I’m unable to provide direct links to these resources here, but they can be easily accessed through the respective organizations’ websites.

At Career Employer, the development of our TExES Science of Teaching Reading (STR) (293) practice tests marks the culmination of a profound journey, enriched by the collective expertise and insights of our experienced teaching professionals. These experts, with a deep understanding of the (STR) (293) exam’s complexities, have meticulously designed these resources to be both comprehensive and insightful. Their vast experience has been pivotal in helping over 1,000 educators in Texas successfully achieve their (STR) (293) certification.

Our team consists of individuals who each bring at least ten years of specialized experience in the education field. This extensive expertise ensures that our practice materials are not only crafted by knowledgeable professionals but are also highly effective in equipping candidates to excel in their certification pursuits.

Effective Study Strategies and Methods

For effective preparation for the TExES Science of Teaching Reading (293) exam, several strategies can enhance your study experience:

  1. Comprehensive Study Guides and Courses: Utilize detailed study guides like those offered by 240 Tutoring and Mometrix. These guides are aligned with the exam’s objectives and provide extensive practice questions, instructional videos, flashcards, and full-length practice tests that mimic the real exam’s format. These resources ensure a thorough understanding of key concepts across all domains of the test​​.
  2. Interactive Learning Tools: Engaging with interactive resources such as the Mometrix prep course can be highly beneficial. This course offers various learning methods like redoing lessons, taking quizzes, and using flashcards, which are effective for retaining information. The course also allows tracking of your progress, helping to identify areas that need more focus​​.
  3. Practice Tests: Regularly taking full-length practice tests helps familiarize you with the exam’s structure and timing. This practice can build confidence and highlight areas where more review is needed. Both Mometrix and 240 Tutoring offer practice tests that replicate the real exam conditions​.
  4. Online Forums and Community Support: Participating in forums and online communities can provide additional tips, peer support, and resources. Engaging with others who are also preparing for the exam can offer moral support and share strategies that might have been overlooked.
  5. Diverse Study Materials: Diversifying study materials to include videos, articles, and books that cover the STR exam competencies can provide a richer understanding and cater to different learning styles. Websites like Quizlet offer flashcards that are specifically designed for various competencies of the TExES Science of Teaching Reading exam, which can be a quick way to review key terms and concepts​​.

By combining these resources and strategies, you can effectively prepare for the TExES Science of Teaching Reading (293) exam and increase your chances of success. Make sure to start your preparation early and consistently dedicate time to study to cover all necessary materials comprehensively.

Cost

Cost CategoryDetailsCost
Exam FeeCost to take the TExES STR (293) examUSD 139.32
Study MaterialsInteractive practice exam, comprehensive courses, and study guidesUSD 10 to USD 49.99/month
Additional ResourcesOptional study materials including video tutorials, flashcards, and extensive test preparation materialsVaries

The TExES Science of Teaching Reading (293) exam has various costs associated with it, from the initial exam fee to study materials and additional resources.

  1. Exam Fee: The cost to take the TExES Science of Teaching Reading (293) exam itself is USD 139.32.
  2. Study Materials: Costs for study materials can vary depending on the resources chosen. For instance, an interactive practice exam costs around USD 10​. More comprehensive preparation courses, like the Mometrix TExES Science of Teaching Reading Course, offer extensive resources including flashcards, full practice tests, and video lessons. This course, in particular, costs USD 49.99 per month​.
  3. Additional Resources: There are various free and paid resources available to help with preparation. For instance, free practice tests and study resources are available through university websites and other educational platforms. On the other hand, paid study guides, video tutorials, and comprehensive courses can be found on sites like Mometrix and 240 Tutoring, which also provide extensive test preparation materials​​.
  4. Post-Exam Fees: After passing the exam, there might be additional fees related to certification processing and renewals, though specific costs can vary and would typically be outlined by the Texas Education Agency or the relevant certifying body.

These costs are general estimates and can vary based on individual choices regarding the depth and breadth of study materials and resources used. For the most up-to-date and specific details, it’s advisable to check directly with the Texas Educator Certification Examination Program and other educational resource providers.

Reliable Study Materials and Resources

To effectively prepare for the TExES Science of Teaching Reading (293) certification exam, a range of online resources are available that offer comprehensive study materials, practice tests, and preparation courses.

  1. Texas Education Agency (TEA) Resources: The Texas Education Agency provides a detailed preparation manual that includes the exam framework, sample questions, and a downloadable PDF version for offline use. This is a great starting point for understanding the structure and content of the exam. 
  2. 240 Tutoring: This platform offers an extensive range of study materials, including a study guide that covers major concepts like Foundations of STR, Reading Assessment, and more, alongside instructional videos, quizzes, and over 1000 practice questions. Their approach includes a diagnostic test to help tailor your study plan according to your strengths and weaknesses. 
  3. Mometrix Test Preparation: Mometrix provides an online prep course that includes video lessons, digital flashcards, practice tests, and a study guide that comprehensively covers the required material. Their course is designed to be engaging and tailored to help build your confidence for the exam. 
  4. Free Practice Tests: Websites like 240 Tutoring and Mometrix also offer free practice tests that simulate the real exam experience. These tests are crucial for understanding the exam format and for identifying areas where you may need further study. 
  5. YouTube Resources: YouTube channels dedicated to teacher certification can also be beneficial. These often provide walkthroughs of practice questions, tips on how to study effectively, and sometimes review important concepts that are likely to appear on the exam.

Using these resources, you can create a well-rounded preparation strategy that includes understanding the exam framework, practicing with real exam questions, and reinforcing knowledge through interactive courses and videos.

Tips for Exam Day

Here are some key tips and strategies to help you prepare and succeed on the TExES Science of Teaching Reading (293) exam:

Preparation Tips:

  1. Understand the Exam Content: Familiarize yourself with the structure and content of the exam, which includes domains such as Reading Pedagogy, Reading Development (Foundational Skills and Comprehension), and Analysis & Response. Knowing the breakdown and the types of questions (90 selected-response and 1 constructed-response) will help you focus your study efforts effectively.
  2. Study Resources: Utilize resources specifically designed for the STR exam, such as 240 Tutoring, which offers a comprehensive suite of study tools including practice tests and study guides that align with the exam content. Regularly practicing with these tools can enhance your familiarity with the exam format and help identify areas where you need more focus.
  3. Practice Tests: Taking practice tests is crucial as they not only familiarize you with the exam format and timing but also help build your test-taking endurance. After each practice test, analyze your performance to understand where you can improve.
  4. Effective Study Strategies: Break your study materials into manageable parts. Use visual aids like diagrams and flashcards, and engage in active learning techniques such as explaining the content to others or participating in study groups.

Exam Day Tips:

  1. Required Documents: Ensure you have all necessary documents such as your admission ticket and a valid ID. Check the specific requirements on the TExES website to avoid any last-minute issues.
  2. Understanding Exam Instructions: Be clear about the exam format, time limits, and marking scheme. Familiarizing yourself with these aspects ahead of time can reduce stress and help manage your time effectively during the exam.
  3. Time Management: Prioritize easier questions to build confidence early on and manage your time so that you can attempt all questions. If stuck, move on and return if time allows.
  4. Managing Test Anxiety: Employ relaxation techniques like deep breathing or visualization to manage anxiety. Getting a good night’s sleep before the exam day and maintaining a healthy lifestyle leading up to the exam can also help keep your stress levels in check.

Post-Exam: Next Steps

After taking the TExES Science of Teaching Reading (293) exam, there are several effective strategies you can employ to reflect and build on your experience:

  1. Post-Exam Reflection: Utilize tools like the Post-Exam Reflection Worksheet to analyze your performance. This process involves reflecting on your study and test-taking strategies, which helps in recognizing areas of strength and aspects that need improvement. It’s a crucial step in the metacognitive process that encourages viewing exams as ongoing learning experiences rather than isolated events. This reflection can set you up for long-term success in your teaching career​.
  2. Post-Exam Reviews: Engage in post-exam reviews, which can be incredibly beneficial. These reviews allow you to explore troublesome concepts and questions in depth, provide both formative and summative feedback, and promote metacognition—helping you think about your own learning process. By addressing the areas most students found challenging, you can adjust your understanding and preparation for future exams or teaching situations.
  3. Exam Wrappers and Test Analyses: Implement exam wrappers and test analyses. This strategy involves using a handout that guides you through analyzing your performance and the feedback provided. You reflect on your preparation strategies and identify patterns in the errors you made. This tool is especially helpful as it encourages you to adapt your future learning strategies based on past performances, helping in more focused and effective preparation for subsequent exams​.

Each of these strategies supports a different aspect of learning and improvement, providing a holistic approach to post-exam analysis. Utilizing these tools can significantly enhance your teaching methods and content mastery, essential for excelling in the field of education.

References

  1. “Exam Overview – Science of Teaching Reading (STR).” 240 Tutoring, https://www.240tutoring.com/texes/science-of-teaching-reading-str/exam-overview.
  2. “Steps to Certification.” Texas Educator Certification Examination Program, https://www.tx.nesinc.com/PageView.aspx?f=GEN_Steps.html.
  3. “Science of Teaching Reading (STR) Frequently Asked Questions.” Texas Education Agency, 2021, https://tea.texas.gov/texas-educators/certification/educator-testing/strfaqv22.2021.pdf-1.
  4. “TExES Science of Teaching Reading (STR).” Mometrix University, https://www.mometrix.com/university/texesstr/.
  5. “Science of Teaching Reading (STR).” 240 Tutoring, https://www.240tutoring.com/texes/science-of-teaching-reading-str/.
  6. “Science of Teaching Reading.” University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, https://www.utrgv.edu/cep/educator-preparation-program/educator-preparation-and-accountability/certification-exam-support-hub/science-of-teaching-reading/index.htm.
  7. “TExES Science of Teaching Reading Practice Test.” Test Prep Review, https://www.testprepreview.com/texes-practice-test/texes/science-of-teaching-reading.
  8. “Preparation Materials – Science of Teaching Reading (293).” Texas Educator Certification Examination Program, https://www.tx.nesinc.com/TestView.aspx?f=HTML_FRAG/TX293_PrepMaterials.html.
  9. “How to Pass the Science of Teaching Reading.” 240 Tutoring, https://www.240tutoring.com/texes-prep/how-to-pass-the-science-of-teaching-reading/.
  10. 240 Tutoring, https://www.240tutoring.com/.
  11. Mometrix, https://www.mometrix.com/.
  12. “TExES Science of Teaching Reading Exam – Secrets to Passing!” YouTube, uploaded by Mometrix Test Preparation, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bMZ3PjwkFH4.
  13. “Science of Teaching Reading.” Reddit, r/TexasTeachers, https://www.reddit.com/r/TexasTeachers/comments/w1kd21/science_of_teaching_reading/.
  14. Study Hub, 240 Tutoring, https://study.240tutoring.com/.
  15. “Post-Exam Reflection Worksheet.” Center for Teaching and Learning, Washington University in St. Louis, https://ctl.wustl.edu/learningcenter/resources/post-exam-reflection-worksheet/.
  16. “Magna Mondays: Creating Engaging Online Learning Activities.” Chapman University Blogs, 1 Nov. 2021, https://blogs.chapman.edu/academics/2021/11/01/magna-mondays-3/.
  17. “Exam Wrappers and Test Analyses.” Virginia Tech, Teaching Resources, https://teaching.vt.edu/teachingresources/adjustinginstruction/exam-wrappers-and-test-analyses.html.
  18. “I Just Passed My 293 Science of Teaching Reading!” Reddit, r/TexasTeachers, https://www.reddit.com/r/TexasTeachers/comments/v00r2s/i_just_passed_my_293_science_of_teaching_reading/.
  19. “How to Pass the Science of Teaching Reading STR Exam – Tips and Tricks.” YouTube, uploaded by Mometrix Test Preparation, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kr032nDanho.

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