The Praxis 7812: Elementary Education – Reading and Language Arts CKT subtest measures the specialized content knowledge needed to teach reading and language arts at the elementary level. CKT stands for “Content Knowledge for Teaching,” meaning the exam focuses not just on what students learn, but on the knowledge teachers use to teach effectively.

The test is computer-delivered and includes selected-response and numeric-entry questions. It assesses both foundational literacy knowledge and the ability to apply that knowledge in classroom teaching situations.

Most states require a scaled score between 150 and 160, but requirements differ depending on your state’s certification standards. Praxis scores are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score adjusts for slight differences in difficulty between test versions, ensuring fairness across administrations. Because of this scaling process, the number of questions you answer correctly does not directly equal your final reported score.

Always check your state’s Department of Education website to confirm the exact passing score you need. You can access information on passing scores by state on the ETS website.

Many candidates find the Praxis 7812 challenging because it measures specialized teaching knowledge, not just reading skills. Questions often require analyzing student responses, identifying misconceptions, or selecting appropriate instructional strategies.

With focused review of literacy content and practice applying that content to teaching scenarios, the exam is very manageable.

The Praxis 7812 includes:

• 63 total questions 
• 90 minutes of testing time
• Computer-delivered format

This subtest is separately timed and is part of the Elementary Education: Content Knowledge for Teaching (7811) series.