CliffsNotes CBEST - BTPS TESTING Ph.D., Jerry Bobrow Ph.D. & 8 more 2021

General description
Introduction to the CBEST: California basic educational skills test

The CBEST measures your proficiency in three general areas: reading, writing, and mathematics. The exam was developed to meet requirements related to credentialing and employment, and is based on the theory that teachers should be able to use the same basic skills taught to students in the classroom.

Exam Format

The CBEST is administered using a computer-based or paper-based format. It is composed of three sections: reading, writing, and mathematics. Because you do not have to take all three sections in one sitting, you have 4 hours to complete one section, two sections, or all three sections of the test. If you decide to take the entire exam on the same day, you may divide your time among the three sections in any way you want. Keep in mind, however, that you must budget your time to finish all of the sections. We recommend that you plan your time as indicated in the table below.

Format of the CBEST

Note: Format and scoring are subject to change. Visit the CBEST website for updates: www.ctcexams.nesinc.com.

Exam Scoring

Your score on the CBEST is based on the number of questions you answer correctly and your written responses to two essay questions. All questions on both the computer-based and paper-based exams (except the essays in the writing section) are multiple-choice with five answer choices for each question. Each of the three sections receives a score ranging from 20 to 80. The passing score for each section is 41; the total passing score for the CBEST is 123. If you score below the passing mark on one section (or even on two sections) but your total score is 123 or higher, you can still pass the exam, but only if your score in each section is 37 or above.

The following chart can give you some indication of your performance level as you work through the practice tests in this book.

Scoring

Questions Commonly Asked about the CBEST

Q:Who administers the CBEST?

A:The CBEST is administered by the Evaluation Systems group of Pearson Education, with guidelines drawn up by the California Superintendent of Public Instruction with the assistance of the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). For further information regarding test administration, contact CBEST Program, Evaluation Systems group of Pearson, P.O. Box 340880, Sacramento, CA 95834-0880, or call (916) 928-4001, or visit www.ctcexams.nesinc.com.

Q:Who needs to pass the CBEST?

A:The CBEST is (1) required by the state department of education before first-time teacher certification. (2) It is required for admission to a state-accredited teacher preparation or credential program. (3) It may also be required for issuance of a permit, certificate, authorization, administrative credential, or renewal of emergency credential. (4) It is required if you have not been employed as a teacher for more than 39 months. It is important that you contact your university teacher preparation office, local school district, or the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing to learn more about the updated required standards.

Q:When and where is the CBEST given?

A:The paper-based CBEST is administered statewide several times each year. Computer-based testing is administered by appointment at locations throughout California, Oregon, and Nevada at Pearson Education Centers. You can get dates and locations from www.ctcexams.nesinc.com or by contacting Pearson VUE at https://home.pearsonvue.com/cbest. Computer-based test-takers must wait at least 45 calendar days before retaking the test, but the paper-based exam can be taken as often as the test is administered.

Q:Should I take the paper-based CBEST or the computer-based CBEST?

A:There are several factors to consider when deciding if you should take the CBEST by the traditional paper-and-pencil method or by computer. Since both exams have the same level of difficulty, what matters most is that you are at ease with the method of test administration. For more information about the advantages of computer-based testing, read the section “Taking the Computer-Based CBEST,” on p. 8 of this book.

Q:Do I have to pay again if I repeat the test?

A:You must pay the test fee each time you register to take the CBEST.

Q:What materials should I take to the test?

A:Be sure to bring your admission ticket, some form of photo and signature identification, and a watch to help pace yourself during the exam. If you’re taking the paper-based exam, then also take several no. 2 soft lead pencils with good erasers. No calculators or other aids are permitted in the test center.

Q:What is a passing score?

A:The total passing score, as established by the Superintendent of Public Instruction, is a total of 123 on all three sections combined and a minimum of 37 on each section.

Q:When will I get my score report?

A:Official test results will be mailed to you about 4 to 6 weeks after you take the exam. You can also check the CBEST website for an “unofficial” score report about 2 weeks after your test date.

Q:May I take the CBEST more than once?

A:Yes, but remember, your plan is to pass on your first try.

Q:Do I need to take all three parts of the test?

A:Yes, you must take, and pass, all three sections of the test, but you do not have to pass all three sections on the same day. You can achieve a total passing score in separate administrations, but you must reach that magic total of 123 in all three sections combined and a minimum of 37 in each section in order to pass the CBEST.

TEST TIP: If you have previously passed a section of the test, it is advisable to retake a higher-scoring section to help you reach your overall passing score of 123. It is often more effective to retake a section that is your strength, rather than depending on a high score in a section that is your weakness. For example, if your scores are Reading (43), Math (36), and Writing (40), the total score is 119, but you need an overall score of 123 to pass the CBEST (and a minimum of 37 to pass the math section). It may be difficult to achieve a high score in math if it is a weakness; therefore, you may want to consider retaking the reading or writing section (along with the math section) to achieve an overall score of 123.

Q:Should I guess on the test?

A:Yes! There is no penalty for guessing. Your score is based on the number of questions you answer correctly. If possible, first try to eliminate some of the choices to increase your chances of choosing the right answer (see “Use the Elimination Approach,” p. 5). Don’t leave any of the questions unanswered.

Q:Can I cancel my CBEST score?

A:Yes, you may cancel your CBEST score, but only if you notify the test supervisor before leaving the test center. However, since no one will know your score except you, there is no reason to cancel—no refunds are given.

Q:Can I write on the test?

A:Yes! If you are taking the paper-based test, you must do all of your work in the test booklet. Your answer sheet, however, must have NO marks on it other than your personal information (name, registration number, and so on) and your answers. Computer-based test-takers are given an erasable writing board to take notes.