Teaching is a brave and noble profession, and Massachusetts arguably needs teachers now more than ever. However, as anyone studying to become a teacher knows, the MTEL certification exam is no walk in the park. In fact, it’s a thorough subject assessment which you may have to call on your knowledge from your own school days to pass.
Passing is far from impossible, however. With the right MTEL test prep strategy and a bit of determination, you’ll be in front of your own classroom before you know it. While being tested is stressful and certainly more difficult for some minds than it is for others, preparation is key. A well prepared individual is far more likely to score well than a naturally talented individual who hasn’t prepared.
Without further ado, here are a few simple ways you can increase your chance of passing your MTEL and becoming the teacher your students deserve.
Study, of Course
Don’t make the mistake of assuming that the questions on your MTEL will be easy to answer with a little bit of common sense, as that isn’t the case. The test will contain grade specific questions for each grade within your age range, no matter which grade you are specifically aiming to teach. For example, if you’re aiming to become a second grade teacher, you’ll take the K-6 test. You will have to know the sixth grade science curriculum just as well as you know the second grade English curriculum.
You may not have the time to overload your brain with everything that might be on the test, but try to make a dent. It’s better to be confident with some of the material than none of it.
Don’t Cram!
It’s been proven time and time again. Trying to retain as much information as you can in one all-night sitting simply doesn’t work. Even if it’s worked for you in the past, it’s unlikely to work on the MTEL. This is because the MTEL primarily asks conceptual questions to assess your problem solving skills. The ability to relay facts that you’ve memorized isn’t applicable for the most part.
Instead, be kind to yourself. Study for an hour at a time and then take a break. You’re scientifically more likely to retain information this way.
Use Supplemental Material
MTEL courses and study guides make a world of difference. It’s understandable if you don’t want to spend the money, considering teacher exams are expensive to take as it is. However, material specifically generated for the MTEL will prepare you for what you’re actually likely to see on the test.
MTEL test prep is what you make of it. Make smart decisions, and you’ll land your first teaching job in no time.
