The Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) 5623: Grades 5–9 exam measures a teacher candidate’s knowledge of instructional theory and classroom practice for middle grades students. It is designed for educators seeking certification to teach students in grades 5–9.

The exam is 2 hours long and includes:

• 70 selected-response (multiple-choice) questions
• 4 constructed-response questions based on two classroom case histories

The test is designed to assess both foundational knowledge and the ability to apply instructional decision-making skills in realistic classroom scenarios.

The Praxis 5623 is divided into five content categories:

• Students as Learners (22.5%) – 21 questions
  Focuses on human development, learning theory, student motivation, and understanding individual differences.
• Instructional Process (22.5%) – 21 questions
  Covers instructional strategies, lesson planning, classroom management, and adapting instruction for diverse learners.
• Assessment (15%) – 14 questions
  Includes formative and summative assessment strategies, data interpretation, and using assessment to guide instruction.
• Professional Development, Leadership, and Community (15%) – 14 questions
  Addresses ethical responsibilities, collaboration with families and colleagues, and professional growth.
• Analysis of Instructional Scenarios (25%) - 4 constructed responses
  Written responses analyzing case studies involving learners, instruction, assessment, and professional practice.

At this time, we do not offer a dedicated study guide for PLT 5625. However, we do offer comprehensive study guides for the other PLT exams.

If you are preparing for 5625, we recommend purchasing the PLT 5622 study guide. As a bonus, we will also provide you with the PLT 5624 study guide at no additional cost. This ensures you review pedagogy across both elementary and secondary grade levels.

The core instructional concepts tested on the PLTs are very similar. The main difference between the books is the grade-level focus of examples and the practice tests. You do not need to read both books in full. Study one thoroughly, then complete the practice tests in both for additional preparation.

You can purchase the PLT 5622 here:

• Digital Study Guide
• Online Course + Digital Study Guide

After purchasing, email us and we will send you the PLT 5624 resources.

The Praxis PLT 5623 (Principles of Learning and Teaching: Grades 5–9) is considered moderately challenging because it tests applied instructional knowledge rather than simple recall of educational terms.

Many candidates find it challenging because:

• Questions require applying learning theory to realistic middle school classroom scenarios.
• The constructed-response section requires clear, well-organized written explanations based on case studies.
• It assesses understanding of early adolescent development across the Grades 5–9 span.
• You must justify instructional, assessment, and classroom management decisions using sound pedagogical reasoning.

Candidates who can analyze classroom situations, connect theory to instructional practice, and clearly articulate their reasoning typically perform well. Focused preparation and practice with case-study style questions significantly increase success.