The Word: NYS Teacher Exams

The LAST (Liberal Arts & Science Test) and ATS-W (Assessment of Teaching Skills-Written, either elementary or secondary version) are New York State-mandated tests for Education and Speech-Language Pathology majors. Both tests must be taken before student teaching; a passing grade is required for initial teacher certification.

The LAST covers historical and social-scientific consciousness, scientific & mathematical processes, artistic expression & the humanities, and contains both multiple-choice questions & an essay question.

The ATS-W also consists of both an extended written response and a series of multiple-choice questions. Test objectives fall into 4 main areas: knowledge of the learner, instructional planning & assessment, instructional delivery, and the professional environment. There are 2 versions: elementary & secondary. Most CSD students opt to take the elementary level exam.

The tests can be taken the same day. Each test lasts about 4 hours. The LAST is always administered in the morning and the ATS-W in the afternoon. Each test costs $70; the fee can be paid by money order, personal check or cashier's check. Registration materials can be picked up in the Education Dept. Office on the second floor of Smyth.

If you plan on leaving New York State for employment or graduate school, please check with the state to which you will be relocating. Most other states require the Praxis series.

 

For additional information about the New York State Teacher Certification examinations visit: www.nystce.nesinc.com