The purpose of FTCE Pre-Kindergarten/Primary K-3 is to ensure a teacher is qualified to instruct students in these subject areas.
For examinees with disabilities that are covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act and require special accommodations, this may be requested in writing.
What are the subtests and competencies covered on this exam?
This test consists of four subtests:
- Developmental Knowledge
- Language Arts and Reading
- Mathematics
- Science
Developmental Knowledge
The Developmental Knowledge computer-based subtest is made up of approximately 60 multiple-choice questions that cover seven competencies. You will have 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete the subtest.
The competencies assessed on this subtest include the following:
Understanding of child growth and development, as well as their family and community relationships. (14%)
Understanding of the fundamentals of early childhood education. (12%)
Understanding of practices that are developmentally sound. (20%)
Understanding of curricula that is developmentally sound. (12%)
Understanding of intervention strategies that meet the needs of all students. (15%)
Understanding of diagnosis, assessment, and evaluation. (14%)
Understanding of guiding the children as well as maintaining behavioral control. (13%)
Language Arts and Reading
The Language Arts and Reading computer-based subtest is made up of approximately 60 multiple-choice questions that cover five competencies. You will have 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete the subtest.
The competencies assessed on this subtest include the following:
Understanding literacy/literacy instruction. (24%)
Understanding fiction and non-fiction. (20%)
Understanding fundamental reading skills. (24%)
Understanding aspects of language that promote effective oral and written communication. (22%)
Understanding assessments and how they relate to instructing literacy. (10%)
Mathematics
The Mathematics computer-based subtest is made up of approximately 50 multiple-choice questions that cover five competencies. You will have 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete the subtest.
The competencies assessed on this subtest include the following:
Understanding successful mathematics instruction techniques. (23%)
Understanding algebraic thinking. (16%)
Understanding number concepts and base ten operations. (30%)
Understanding measurement, as well as data collection and analysis. (15%)
Understanding concepts that are spatial and those that are geometric. (16%)
Science
The Science computer-based subtest is made up of approximately 50 multiple-choice questions that cover five competencies. You will have 1 hour to complete the subtest.
The competencies assessed on this subtest include the following:
Understanding proper science instruction. (19%)
Understanding the nature of science. (19%)
Understanding earth and space sciences. (20%)
Understanding the physical sciences. (17%)
Understanding the life sciences. (25%)
How can I register for this exam?
Do so online. Once you’ve registered, you have a year to schedule your test.
What is the cost of the exam?
The first time you take this test, you must take all four subtests. The cost is $200. If you do not pass all or a portion of the test, you can re-take one subtest for $150, two subtests for $200, or three or four subtests for $220. Payments must be made via a credit, debit, or check card.
What are the testing dates and locations?
Testing for FTCE Pre-Kindergarten/Primary PK-3 is offered at various sites through the state of Florida. There are also locations in other states that you may choose from. The date on which you take the exam is up to you and the normal business hours of the site you choose.
What should I do the day of the exam?
Arrive for the exam 30 minutes early. Reporting late to the testing center can prevent you from being able to take the test.
Bring two forms of identification. One must include your name, signature, and photo. At a minimum, the other should have your name and signature. If you do not submit proper identification, you will not be permitted to take the test.
Items such as a calculator, cell phone, dictionary, purse, wallet, and food/drink are prohibited from the testing area. Consult with your testing center if you have questions about other items that are not allowed.
Can I take a break during the test?
There is a 15-minute break scheduled with this test. For the scheduled break, the testing clock will stop. If you require an unscheduled break, you may do so, but the testing clock will not stop.
What happens after I take the exam?
You will be able to access your online score report four weeks after your test date.
What must I earn to pass this exam?
In order to pass this exam, you must successfully complete all four subtests. A passing score is 200 per subtest.
What happens if I do not pass the exam?
You can re-take it. There is no limit to how many times you can re-take a subtest or the complete test in order to pass it. However, you must wait 31 days between each attempt.
How Can I Prepare for the FTCE Test?
That’s a great question. We’ve broken down the answer into three parts.
- Do yourself a favor and study. Do not walk in unprepared. We have recommended prep materials below, but that only helps if you actually try. Plus, studying is actually proven to be the best antidote to test anxiety.
- Take care of yourself. Make sure you’re eating well, exercising, and sleeping. All of these things are scientifically linked to brain performance. If you take care of your body, you’ll be helping your grades.
- Get a study guide or set of flashcards. Some people study better a certain way. Find your study strengths and make the most of them. We’ve tried to make it easy for you by tracking down the best study guide and flashcard set for your exam. Below you’ll see links to both!