Preparing for the ParaPro Assessment is crucial for anyone who is aiming to become a paraprofessional. The exam assesses skills and knowledge on multiple subjects that are relevant to supporting classroom instruction. Whether you’re just starting out in this field or renewing your certification, adequate preparation can make a significant difference in your performance. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to prepare for the ParaPro Assessment and everything you need to know.
What is the ParaPro Assessment?
The ParaPro Assessment is a comprehensive exam for paraprofessionals and allows schools to assess a candidate’s proficiency. The ParaPro Assessment was created as a response to the No Child Left Behind Act. The No Child Left Behind Act was a federal law stating that Paraprofessionals must meet one of three requirements. In 2015, the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) replaced the No Child Left Behind Act.
One of the biggest non-profit educational assessment organizations, Educational Testing Service (ETS), developed the ParaPro Assessment. The test allows users 2.5 hours to complete 90 questions.
What Kind of Questions are on the ParaPro Assessment?
The ParaPro Assessment covers three subjects; Math, Reading, and Writing. Each subject will be 30 questions each. The mathematics section of the exam requires the test taker to have and apply knowledge and skills in four basic areas of math. The areas of math covered on the exam are number sense, basic algebra, geometry and measurement, and data analysis. All of the questions reflect skills that are commonly taught from elementary to high school levels.
The reading section of the ParaPro Assessment determines if you have the knowledge and skills of an excellent reader that can also be applied to helping students in the classroom. The questions in this section include reading passages, diagrams, charts, tables, and graphs. You may be asked to identify the main idea or primary purpose of a passage, determine whether information presented is an opinion or fact, and determine the meanings of phrases or words in context.
Lastly, the writing section of the ParaPro Assessment tests your knowledge and skills and your ability to apply those to classroom instruction. Questions in the knowledge and skills section may include spotting errors in grammar, punctuation, spelling, and usage. The second category of questions is testing your ability to apply your knowledge and skills to students in the classroom. These questions may include developing main ideas for paragraphs or revising sentences.
Steps to Prepare for the ParaPro Assessment
Review Exam Content
The first step on how to prepare for the ParaPro Assessment is taking the time to review the type of questions that will be asked on the exam. Understanding the content and structure of a test is essential before diving into your preparation process. As I mentioned earlier, the test aims to evaluate your ability to assist in classroom instruction effectively. Research study guide materials for the assessment online provided by ETS to help you familiarize yourself with question formats, content areas, and the level of difficulty to expect.
Assess Your Skills
Since the areas you are being tested on are broad, take a diagnostic test to identify your strengths and weaknesses in writing, reading, and math. This will highlight any areas that may need extra attention during your study sessions.
Create a Study Plan
Take a look at your calendar and schedule times to study for the exam. Set specific goals for what you want to achieve each week leading up to the assessment.
Use Your Resources
Take advantage of all the free resources online such as practice tests, study guides, and instructional videos. The company that created the test, ETS, provides many official tests that were used in previous years. This is the best way to get a great understanding of what you will encounter.
Enhance Reading, Writing, and Mathematical Skills
Practice tests aren’t the only great resource to help you prepare for the assessment. Consider reading a variety of articles, literature, and texts to enhance your reading comprehension skills. For writing, practice writing essays or responses to prompts that reflect the writing tasks on the exam. Focus on structuring your writing effectively by using proper punctuation and conveying ideas clearly. Lastly, for math, review fundamental math concepts and practice solving math problems under timed conditions to improve accuracy.
Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Being well rested has many benefits such as boosting your mood and memory. Having a good night’s sleep will also reduce stress, help you focus better, and increase your energy.
Eat a Nutritious Meal
Eating a nutritious meal goes hand in hand with getting a good night’s sleep. Fueling your body will help you stay focused and give you energy.
Conclusion
By following these steps and dedicating yourself to thorough preparation, you can increase your chances of passing the ParaPro Assessment. Being well prepared doesn’t just include studying and practicing questions. It also means investing in yourself by getting a good nights sleep and eating a nutritious meal. Being a Paraprofessional is a rewarding career and taking the ParaPro Assessment will help you succeed as a paraprofessional. If you’re looking for a paraprofessional job in New Jersey, send us your application or check out our current open jobs!