Free Praxis Core Reading (Colorado) Practice Test

Sample Praxis Core Reading practice questions

Try a few representative questions below. Each includes the correct answer and a short explanation — the same style you'll see in the full practice test.

1. Question 1Statistical Interpretation

   A researcher is analyzing a passage that discusses the socio-economic factors influencing educational attainment. The passage cites a study using a Pearson correlation coefficient (r) of -0.75 between household income and standardized test scores. What is the most accurate interpretation of this finding?

   • A.The correlation is weak and likely due to random chance, as a negative value suggests no meaningful connection.
   • B.The study demonstrates a perfect inverse relationship where every dollar increase in income leads to a specific decrease in test scores.
   • C.There is a moderate positive linear relationship, indicating that higher income is associated with slightly higher test scores.
   • D.There is a strong negative linear relationship, meaning as household income increases, standardized test scores tend to decrease significantly.(Correct)

   Explanation

   A Pearson correlation coefficient of -0.75 indicates a strong negative linear relationship. The negative sign signifies an inverse relationship (as one variable increases, the other tends to decrease), and the magnitude of 0.75 suggests a strong association, not a perfect one.

2. Question 2Source Credibility

   When evaluating the credibility of an online article about a new pedagogical approach, which of the following sources would generally be considered the MOST authoritative?

   • A.A blog post written by an enthusiastic parent sharing their personal experience with the approach.
   • B.A peer-reviewed journal article published by established researchers in educational psychology.(Correct)
   • C.A news report from a general interest website that briefly mentions the approach.
   • D.A promotional brochure distributed by a company that sells resources related to the pedagogical approach.

   Explanation

   Peer-reviewed journal articles undergo rigorous evaluation by experts in the field, ensuring a higher standard of research methodology, validity, and reliability compared to personal blogs, general news, or promotional materials.

3. Question 3Educational Philosophy

   A passage describes a historical debate on curriculum development, mentioning John Dewey's progressive education philosophy. Which of the following educational principles is MOST closely aligned with Dewey's ideas?

   • A.Focus on vocational training and preparation for specific job roles, prioritizing practical skills over broad intellectual development.
   • B.A traditional, teacher-centered approach focused on rote memorization of established knowledge and standardized testing.
   • C.A highly structured curriculum with prescribed learning outcomes and minimal student autonomy.
   • D.Emphasis on experiential learning and problem-solving, with the curriculum emerging from student interests and real-world applications.(Correct)

   Explanation

   John Dewey championed progressive education, which centers on learning by doing, integrating curriculum with students' experiences, and fostering critical thinking through problem-solving and inquiry-based learning.

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