How to Prepare for the TExES: Texas Examinations of Educator Standards

I've failed both the Excet and TExES Exams a few times. On every single test, I would make that "magical score" of 238 (or a few points lower)--talk about sheer madness! Honestly, I was ready to give up teaching in Texas. Thank God (and the constant, unbearable proddings of family and friends) that I didn't. One great personality trait I do have is preserverance. With the combination of Barron's Texes Guidebook and a Region 10 Texes study session, I passed the first time with a score in the 260's. What a relief--the nightmare was finally over! As an out-of-state certified teacher, I've learned a few things about taking my Texes Test: 1) If you've EVER taught in the classroom, COMPLETELY throw out everything you've learned mentally! The reason why college students usually pass on their first or second try is because of their current book knowledge and no full-time experience. 2) To study WITH lots of noise! Man, that's extremely tough for introverts (yes, the REAL me away from school). The result was that I had developed great focusing skills due to mentally "blocking out" distractions. 3) Region 10 (or wherever you are) study sessions are a MUST! 4) Keep and study the Barron's book. However, I've loaned it out to one of my friends and he passed it the 1st time! Since then, I've been REALLY popular. 5) Last but not least, NEVER, EVER give up on your teaching dreams! I have a ton of business experience (which I use as a temp during the summer), but my God-given "gift" and career is being a teacher. P.S. I LOVE TEACHING!!!

TExES: Texas Examinations Of Educator Standards By Frances Van Tassell and Betty Crocker Barron's Educational Series www.barronseduc.com 2004 ISBN # 0-7641-2884-1 Large Paperback/Textbook $14.95 US $21.95 Canada Every school year seems to bring more and more mandated test for students in Texas schools. Teachers too are being tested, not just in the classroom, like never before. In previous years, such required certifications were under the umbrella of the ExCET tests. Now, the name has been changed to TExES and this book serves as study guide to those new teacher certification tests. Written by professors in the Department of Education at The University of North Texas (Denton, Texas), this book contains lots of helpful information. Part 1 consists of an introduction to the requirements, who is required to take the test, and suggested guidelines for using this comprehensive 444-page book. Sections that most students would normally skip but serve to help those who take the time to read them. Section 2 is a twenty-page guide to preparing for taking the test. Information that is aimed primarily towards this test but would be helpful for any student regarding tests. Section 3 covers current teacher standards and competencies using detailed explanations of both. As a parent of two active boys, this section was also very interesting as it explained some of the actions teachers have taken with my children. Section 4, which covers chapters 13-18, provides diagnostic and sample tests for every grade level in public school. This is followed by several appendices that cover websites, printed material and appropriate rules and standards. A glossary and index completes the text. Detailed and comprehensive, this book is a must for those of us, regardless of the reason, interested in teacher standards in Texas. Kevin R. Tipple © 2005