Ricardo Espinosa

April 7th, 2019

EDU 299

Praxis Core Analysis

I prepared for the Praxis exams by taking a three course online practice test that allowed

me to get an accurate determination of my strengths and weaknesses on the exam. The three

subjects, each with an individual exam, included writing, reading and mathematics. To get a

better expectation level for the practice exams I used study guides detailing the format and

complexity of questions featured. Going into this study process wasn’t intimidating, but certainly

challenged me to try and meet the passing standard.

First, I took the writing portion, which I passed with an 80%. I felt confident in this

section because I was spot on in the practice questions of spotting out errors in underlined

sentences. Most of the questions had to do with commas in wrong places or boxing sentence

structure to sound more fluid. In college I've had substantial experience editing my own papers

and spotting my own errors, which gave me the perspective I needed. Confidence comes from a

success rate, and I applied mine in this section.

The reading segment was surprising difficult, resulting in an alarming 39% score. While

the comprehensive questions for passages I read through started out easy, the difficulty rose as
the exam went on dye to the vocabulary and topics of the passages. Most of the passages dealt

with historical and argumentive subject matter that failed to capture my interests and therefore

forced my attention to detail. I didn't do well in this subject because I don't read a lot and there

was a load of information on subject matter I failed to connect to. As a kinesthetic learner and

imaginative person, it was hard to picture the words and therefore I fell off in critically thinking

of answers.

The final practice exam was in mathematics, and like most ordinary people in college, I'd

do better with notes. I received a 49%

This preliminary attempt opened my eyes for the better and has prompted me to focus

more time exclusive studying in reading and mathematics to achieve a better score. Writing was

my best score, but I was exemped from taking the essay portion this time around, so I will make

sure to give myself practice in timed writing to ensure double success. I will consistently practice

math problems and reading comprehension in the study guides and Khan Academy activities to

make my execution effortless. Overall, I need to approach each section, and the exam

collectively, with more passion and internet to meet the standards presented that a future

educator should know.