The ParaPathways Math Test
The Mathematics subtest (code 5759) checks the everyday math you use in a classroom. The numbers are friendly, a calculator is provided, and once you see the patterns it gets a lot less scary. Here is how to walk in ready.
What the Mathematics subtest covers
Here is the good news I tell every aide I coach: there is no calculus, no trigonometry, and no surprise college math. The 36 questions stick to the math a paraprofessional actually uses with students. About two-thirds are basic skills, and about one-third are classroom-application questions that ask how you would use that math to help a child. Below is the full list of what shows up.
- Number sense and operations (adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing)
- Fractions, decimals, and percents
- Ratios and proportions
- Basic algebra (solve for a variable)
- Geometry and measurement
- Reading data from charts and tables
- Classroom-application items that ask how you would use math to help in a classroom
If you can split a class into groups, double a recipe, or read a bar graph with your students, you already do most of this. The test is just asking you to do it on paper, with the clock running.
Using the calculator
Yes, a calculator is allowed on this subtest. It is an on-screen four-function calculator (add, subtract, multiply, divide), and it is built right into the screen, so you do not bring your own. It is there to save you from silly slips on long arithmetic, and that is a real gift when you are tired or nervous.
Do
- Lean on it for long multiplication and division so you do not lose a digit.
- Use it to double-check an answer you worked out by hand.
- Type carefully, then glance at the screen to make sure the number looks reasonable.
Don't
- Expect it to think for you. You still pick which operation to use.
- Skip setting up the problem. The calculator only helps once you know what to type.
- Reach for it on easy facts. Knowing your facts keeps you fast.
Worked sample questions
The best way to lose the fear is to watch a few problems get solved. Read each one, try it yourself first, then check the steps. Notice how friendly the numbers are.
A class has 25 students. On Monday, 4 are absent. What percent of the class is present?
Present students = 25 minus 4 = 21.
Put the part over the whole: 21 divided by 25 = 0.84.
Move the decimal two places to make a percent: 0.84 = 84%.
A paste recipe mixes 2 cups of flour for every 3 cups of water. If you use 9 cups of water, how many cups of flour do you need?
Write the ratios as equal fractions: 2/3 = x/9.
The bottom went from 3 to 9, which is times 3, so multiply the top by 3 as well: 2 times 3 = 6.
(A calculator is allowed, but these numbers are friendly enough to do by hand.)
A teacher has 32 students and wants groups of no more than 5 students each. What is the smallest number of groups she can make?
32 divided by 5 = 6.4.
Six groups would only seat 6 times 5 = 30 students, leaving 2 students without a group.
When every student must be placed, you round the remainder up.
How to study for the Math subtest
You do not need to relearn everything. You need to find your weak spots and drill those. Here is the order that has worked for the returning adults I coach.
- Take a timed diagnostic first. One honest run tells you more than a week of guessing.
- Drill the topics you miss. For returning adults, fractions, percents, and ratios are the most common weak spots, so do not feel alone if those are yours.
- Practice setting up word problems. Most of the test is reading a short story and deciding what to do, so train that step on purpose.
- Practice with the calculator ahead of time, so test day is not the first time your fingers find the buttons.
When you are ready for the other half of the exam, the Reading and Writing guide walks through that subtest the same way. To rehearse the full new format, head to the ParaPathways practice test.
How it is scored
The Mathematics subtest is scored on a 310 to 350 scale, and it gets its own number, separate from your Reading and Writing score. ETS recommends 334 to pass, but your state has the final say, and some states set a lower bar.
The number you actually need depends on where you plan to work, so check yours before you schedule. You can look it up on our passing score by state page.
Ready to find your weak spots?
Take the free diagnostic to see where you stand today, then grab the study book to close the gap. The math is friendlier than you think.
