The MTEL exam, specifically for subject matter tests, is structured into two primary sections: a multiple-choice section and an open-response section, which together determine a candidate's total test score.
Overview of the MTEL Exam Format
The Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) are designed to assess the knowledge and skills required for educator licensure in Massachusetts. For subject matter tests, the format is consistently divided to evaluate both comprehensive understanding and the ability to articulate detailed responses.
Section Breakdown
The exam is comprised of two distinct parts, each contributing a specific percentage to the final score and featuring a set number of items.
Here's a detailed look at the format:
| Section | Item Type | Number of Items | Score Weight | Time Recommendation (per item) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multiple-Choice | Selected-response | 85 | 80% | Not individually timed |
| Open-Response | Constructed-response | 2 | 20% | 20–30 minutes |
- Multiple-Choice Section: This section consists of 85 multiple-choice items. It accounts for a significant portion of the total test score, contributing 80 percent. This format assesses broad knowledge across the subject matter.
- Open-Response Section: This section includes two open-response items. Candidates are expected to dedicate approximately 20–30 minutes to prepare an adequate response for each of these items. This section accounts for 20 percent of the candidate's total test score and evaluates the ability to construct detailed, well-reasoned answers.
It is important for candidates to manage their time effectively across both sections, allocating sufficient time for the more in-depth open-response questions while ensuring accuracy in the multiple-choice segment.
For more detailed information, you can visit the official MTEL website.
