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Praxis Special Education: Foundational Knowledge (5355)
600 questions
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About this exam
The Praxis Special Education: Foundational Knowledge (5355) is a Praxis assessment for candidates preparing to teach students with disabilities. States and educator preparation programs may require it for licensure, certification, or another credentialing step, but requirements differ by jurisdiction and role. It assesses foundational knowledge relevant to special education teaching; it is not a universal admissions test. Before registering, confirm whether your state, program, or employer requires the 5355, and check current ETS guidance for eligibility and registration details.
The exam covers core special education knowledge, including the field’s foundations and history, disability categories and learner characteristics, and child development across age levels. Candidates should also review learning theories and how to use individualized instruction to address learners’ needs. Preparation involves connecting concepts to classroom decisions, not just memorizing definitions—for example, recognizing how a learner’s characteristics and developmental stage can inform instruction. Use the current ETS Study Companion to confirm the test structure and content outline, then build in some timed multiple-choice practice.
How to prepare for the Praxis Special Education: Foundational Knowledge (5355)
- Use the current ETS Study Companion as your checklist. Review special education foundations and historical development, then make brief notes on major concepts and their implications for teaching.
- Study disability categories alongside learner characteristics and development across age levels. Practice explaining how those factors might shape individualized instruction, rather than relying on category names alone.
- Use timed selected-response practice to identify weak areas, then review why each answer is correct or incorrect. Recheck the latest ETS test information before test day for the current format and policies.
FAQ
Who takes the Praxis Special Education: Foundational Knowledge (5355)?
It is intended for candidates preparing for special education teaching roles. Whether you need it for licensure or certification depends on your state, educator preparation program, and intended role, so confirm the requirement with the relevant authority.
What is the format of the Praxis 5355?
The 5355 is a selected-response exam. ETS lists 120 questions and a two-hour testing time; check the current ETS test information before scheduling in case specifications have changed.
What subjects are covered on the Praxis Special Education: Foundational Knowledge exam?
Key areas include special education foundations and history, disability categories and learner characteristics, child development across age levels, learning theories, and individualized instruction. The current ETS Study Companion provides the official content outline.