ParaPro is a standardized test administered by Educational Testing Service for credentialing of paraprofessional educators. The test examines skills in reading, writing and mathematics and ability to put them into practice in a classroom setting.
Eligibility-
This test is taken by practicing and prospective paraprofessionals. It has been designed to meet the requirements of No Child Left Behind Act.
Test Overview-
The test is divided into six sections- Reading skills and knowledge, application of reading skills and knowledge to classroom setting, mathematics skills, application of mathematics skills to classroom setting, writing skills and knowledge, and application of writing skills and knowledge. The reading skills section is based on reading comprehension. It contains questions related to given passages, tables, text, charts or graphs. The reading skills application tests use of tools and techniques for reading skills in a real life classroom setting. The content of mathematics skills section is derived from algebra, number system, geometry, data interpretation and measurements. The mathematics skills application examines use of same skills into classroom instructions. The writing skills test is based on grammar, punctuation, sentence construction, spelling and language usage. The writing skills application tests ability to guide students in carrying out writing tasks.
Test Format-
ParaPro test consists of 90 multiple choice questions which are to be attempted in two and half hours. All questions are in English. The two-third of these questions is of basic skills and knowledge whereas remaining one-third belongs to application of those skills. There are 18 questions of reading skills, writing skills and mathematics skills sections each and 12 questions of application of reading, writing and mathematics skills sections each.
Marking Scheme-
The test is scored in a scale ranging from 420 to 480. The passing score is determined by respective state. The official scores are released in four weeks in case of paper based testing and two weeks in case of internet based testing. The score card contains name of the candidate, scores, pass score for recipient designated while registration, background information, educational information and detailed content category information.
Schedule-
The paper based testing is available at fixed dates in a year. The internet based testing is available throughout a year. One needs to obtain information bulletin from official website of ETC and mail the registration form contained in it to complete registration process.
Exam fees-
The fee of this test is $45. This fee is non-refundable.