Preparing for the Elementary Education Subtest 2 (151): Social Studies/Mathematics/Science/Health, Fitness, and the Arts

Are you getting ready to take the Elementary Education Subtest 2 (151)? This comprehensive exam covers a wide range of subjects, including Social Studies, Mathematics, Science, and Health, Fitness, and the Arts. With 66 selected-response questions and a passing score of 240, this guide will help you prepare effectively using a practice test.

Understanding the Test Structure

The Elementary Education Subtest 2 is divided into four subareas, each focusing on different subjects:

  1. Social Studies (26%)
  2. Mathematics (31%)
  3. Science (28%)
  4. Health, Fitness, and the Arts (15%)

Let’s explore each subarea, the competencies they cover, and how to prepare using a practice test.

Subarea I: Social Studies (26%)

This section examines your knowledge of social studies process skills, government, civics, economics, geography, and history.

Key Competencies:

  • Social Studies Process Skills: Interpret pictures, maps, graphs, charts, diagrams, timelines; evaluate research information; use various sources.
  • Government, Civics, and Economics: Understand different forms of government, democratic principles, branches of government, historical documents, and economic concepts.
  • Geography: Analyze maps, human and physical geography, environmental changes, and Oklahoma’s geographic features.
  • History: Understand historical events in Oklahoma, the United States, and the world; analyze timelines, key movements, and technological innovations.

Subarea II: Mathematics (31%)

This section covers number sense, algebra, geometry, measurement, data analysis, and probability.

Key Competencies:

  • Number Sense and Operations: Understand number concepts, operations, number theory, and solving real-world problems involving numbers.
  • Algebra and Proportional Reasoning: Solve equations, analyze functions, and use algebraic expressions to solve problems.
  • Geometry and Measurement: Analyze geometric figures, solve problems involving measurement, and understand coordinate geometry.
  • Data Analysis and Probability: Interpret data, understand central tendency and dispersion, and solve probability problems.

Subarea III: Science (28%)

This section focuses on scientific inquiry, physical science, earth and space science, and life science.

Key Competencies:

  • Scientific Inquiry: Understand scientific processes, experimental design, data analysis, and safety in scientific investigations.
  • Physical Science: Understand the properties of matter, energy, forces, motion, and waves.
  • Earth and Space Science: Analyze Earth’s structure, processes, the solar system, weather phenomena, and human-environment interactions.
  • Life Science: Understand the characteristics and life processes of organisms, heredity, diversity, and ecosystems.

Subarea IV: Health, Fitness, and the Arts (15%)

This section examines your knowledge of health, fitness, visual arts, and performing arts.

Key Competencies:

  • Health and Fitness: Understand human body systems, motor skills, nutrition, health behaviors, and disease prevention.
  • Visual Arts: Recognize elements, materials, tools, processes, and genres of visual art.
  • Performing Arts: Understand elements and genres of music, dance, theatre, and media arts.

Tips for Using a Practice Test

  1. Simulate Real Test Conditions: Take the practice test in a quiet environment with a time limit similar to the actual test. This helps you get used to the test format and timing.
  2. Review Your Answers: After completing the practice test, review your answers thoroughly. Identify areas where you struggled and revisit those topics.
  3. Focus on Weak Areas: Use the practice test results to guide your study. Spend more time on the competencies where you scored lower.
  4. Understand the Rationales: Go through the explanations for both correct and incorrect answers. Understanding the reasoning behind each answer will help reinforce your knowledge.
  5. Practice Constructed Responses: Write practice essays and have them reviewed by a teacher or peer. Focus on integrating multiple competencies in your responses.
  6. Use Study Guides and Flashcards: Complement your practice test with study guides and flashcards to reinforce key concepts and terms.
  7. Join Study Groups: Discussing with peers can provide new insights and help clarify difficult concepts.

Conclusion

Preparing for the Elementary Education Subtest 2 (151) requires a strategic approach. By understanding the test structure, mastering key competencies, and effectively using practice tests, you can boost your confidence and increase your chances of success. Good luck with your studies and your upcoming test!