Key Takeaways

  • Three equal content areas: Reading (30), Mathematics (30), Writing (30)
  • Each area has ~20 basic skills questions and ~10 classroom application questions
  • Reading tests comprehension, vocabulary, and text analysis
  • Mathematics covers K-8 level concepts and problem-solving
  • Writing focuses on grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure
Last updated: January 2026

ParaPro Content Areas

The ParaPro Assessment tests three academic content areas, each with an equal number of questions. Within each area, questions test both basic skills and classroom application.

Content Distribution

Content AreaQuestionsPercentage
Reading3033%
Mathematics3033%
Writing3033%
Total90100%

Question Types Within Each Area

Each content area divides questions into two categories:

Question TypeApproximate CountFocus
Basic Skills~20 per areaSubject matter knowledge
Classroom Application~10 per areaApplying skills in teaching context

Reading Section (30 Questions)

The Reading section tests your ability to comprehend and analyze written text.

Basic Skills (≈20 questions):

  • Identifying main ideas and supporting details
  • Understanding vocabulary in context
  • Drawing conclusions and making inferences
  • Identifying author's purpose and tone
  • Analyzing text structure and organization

Classroom Application (≈10 questions):

  • Helping students with reading comprehension
  • Selecting appropriate reading materials
  • Supporting vocabulary development
  • Assisting with reading assignments

Mathematics Section (30 Questions)

The Mathematics section tests foundational math skills at a K-8 level.

Basic Skills (≈20 questions):

  • Number sense and operations
  • Algebra fundamentals
  • Geometry basics
  • Measurement and data
  • Problem-solving strategies

Classroom Application (≈10 questions):

  • Helping students understand math concepts
  • Checking student work
  • Using manipulatives and visual aids
  • Supporting students with word problems

Writing Section (30 Questions)

The Writing section tests your command of standard written English.

Basic Skills (≈20 questions):

  • Grammar and usage
  • Sentence structure
  • Punctuation and capitalization
  • Spelling and word usage
  • Paragraph organization

Classroom Application (≈10 questions):

  • Helping students with writing assignments
  • Editing and proofreading student work
  • Supporting the writing process
  • Modeling correct language usage
ParaPro Content Distribution by Questions
Test Your Knowledge

Approximately how many questions in each ParaPro section focus on classroom application?

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D