MTEL Communication Literacy Skills Exam

What knowledge categories will the MTEL Communication and Literacy Skills test cover?

There are two subsets on the Communication and Literacy Skills test — reading and writing. Candidates may take one subtest at a time, or both in one sitting. Candidates are required to take and pass both subtests.

What are the test fees?

The reading subtest costs $76, while the writing subtest costs $85. If you elect to take both subtests at the same time, the fee is $112.

How long do I have to complete the test?

There is a four-hour test time, whether taking one or both subtests. You can take as much time as you like on each individual subtest because subtests are not timed.

What is the MTEL Communication and Literacy Skills test passing score?

Each subtest has a passing score of 240.

How many questions are on the test?

The reading subtest contains 42 multiple-choice questions. The Writing subtest contains 35 multiple-choice questions, seven short answer items and two items that are open response.

What content areas are on the test?

Each subtest has six objectives, as described below.

Reading

• Determining words and phrases in the context
• Examining written material for the main idea and supporting details
• Identifying the purpose, point of view, and intended meaning of a passage
• Analyzing, in written material, the relationships among ideas
• Evaluate written material by using critical reasoning skills
• Demonstrate skills to outline and summarize written materials and interpret graphical information

Writing

• Methods used to establish and maintain a central theme or main idea
• Sentence construction, grammar, and usage common errors
• Spelling, capitalization and punctuation common errors
• Analyze and revise sentences with sentence construction, grammar, usage, spelling, capitalization and punctuation mistakes
• Effective summary preparation
• Using standard English conventions, prepare a well-organized and focused piece of writing for a given purpose and audience

When can I take the test?

The test is available all year, Monday through Saturday, excluding certain holidays.

Where can I take the MTEL Communication and Literacy Skills test?

The Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure use an independent testing agency to administer the exam. The agency has locations throughout Massachusetts and the United States.

When should I arrive at the test center?

Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled test time. Candidates who arrive more than 15 minutes late will not be allowed to take the exam and will lose all fees.

What identification do I need on test day?

Candidates must bring one current piece of government-issued identification that contains a photo and signature. A driver’s license, passport, state ID and military ID are examples of acceptable identification.

What are the test day rules?

When arriving at the test center, candidates will be reminded that personal items are not allowed in the testing room. Personal items include mobile phones, any electronic device, bags, coats, pens, notebooks and large jewelry. All personal items must be stored in a secure area at the test center or left in your vehicle. Test center proctors provide candidates with a pen and notebooklet for taking notes.

When will I receive my MTEL Communication and Literacy Skills test scores?

Test scores are available approximately two and four weeks after taking the exam.

This sounds like a challenging test. What study materials should I buy?

You can count on Mometrix for the best study materials around. Our study guide provides easy, step-by-step instruction on how to prepare for the MTEL Communication and Literacy Skills test. Our guide will walk you through key strategies to help you be as best prepared as possible. If you’re busy — and who isn’t these days? — our flashcards can help you study on the go. The questions come with easy-to-understand answers that make studying easier.