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Praxis 5038

English Language Arts: Content Knowledge

Maryland Passing Score

157

MSDE Score Code

7403

Retake Wait

28 days

Score Valid

10 years

10 Free Practice Questions

Question 1 · Reading Literature

The sequence of events that make up a story, including the introduction of characters, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution, is collectively known as what literary element? This structure is often visualized as a mountain or pyramid.

  1. A
  2. B
  3. C
  4. D

Explanation

Plot refers to the organized sequence of events in a narrative, often described using Freytag's Pyramid. A is incorrect because theme is the central message or lesson, not the sequence of events. B is incorrect because setting refers to the time and place of the story. D is incorrect because tone describes the author's attitude toward the subject matter.

Question 2 · Reading Literature

The repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words in close proximity, such as 'Peter Piper picked a peck,' is called what? This device is commonly used in poetry to create rhythm and musicality.

  1. A
  2. B
  3. C
  4. D

Explanation

Alliteration is the repetition of the same initial consonant sounds in nearby words. Assonance is the repetition of vowel sounds within nearby words. Consonance is the repetition of consonant sounds anywhere within nearby words, not just at the beginning. Onomatopoeia refers to words that phonetically imitate the sounds they describe, such as 'buzz' or 'crash.'

Question 3 · Reading Literature

In literature, the term 'protagonist' refers to which character in a story? This character is typically the central figure around whom the narrative revolves.

  1. A
  2. B
  3. C
  4. D

Explanation

The protagonist is the central character of a narrative, often facing the primary conflict. A is incorrect because that describes the antagonist, who opposes the protagonist. B is incorrect because the narrator tells the story but is not necessarily the protagonist. D is incorrect because a minor comedic character is a supporting role, not the protagonist.

Question 4 · Reading Literature

When an author gives clues or hints about what will happen later in the story, this technique is called what? Readers often use this device to make predictions as they read.

  1. A
  2. B
  3. C
  4. D

Explanation

Foreshadowing is the technique of hinting at future events to build suspense and prepare the reader. A is incorrect because flashback interrupts the current narrative to revisit past events. C is incorrect because allusion is a reference to another work, person, or event. D is incorrect because symbolism uses objects or images to represent abstract ideas.

Question 5 · Reading Literature

The recurring idea or central message that the author conveys throughout a literary work is known as what element? This concept answers the question of what the work means on a deeper level.

  1. A
  2. B
  3. C
  4. D

Explanation

Theme is the central insight or message about life and human nature expressed by a literary work. A is incorrect because a motif is a recurring image, symbol, or idea that supports the theme rather than being the theme itself. B is incorrect because plot is the sequence of events. D is incorrect because mood is the emotional atmosphere the reader experiences.

Question 6 · Reading Literature

A comparison between two unlike things that does NOT use the words 'like' or 'as' is called what type of figurative language? This device states that one thing IS another thing.

  1. A
  2. B
  3. C
  4. D

Explanation

A metaphor directly equates two unlike things without using 'like' or 'as,' such as 'Life is a journey.' A is incorrect because a simile makes a comparison using 'like' or 'as.' C is incorrect because personification attributes human qualities to non-human things. D is incorrect because hyperbole is an intentional exaggeration for effect.

Question 7 · Reading Literature

The time and place in which a story's events occur is referred to as what literary element? This element can significantly influence the mood and events of a narrative.

  1. A
  2. B
  3. C
  4. D

Explanation

Setting encompasses both the time period and geographical location in which the story takes place. B is incorrect because conflict is the central struggle or problem faced by the protagonist. C is incorrect because the climax is the turning point or moment of highest tension in the plot. D is incorrect because characterization is the process by which an author develops a character's personality.

Question 8 · Reading Literature

When an author attributes human characteristics, emotions, or behaviors to animals, objects, or abstract ideas, this literary device is called what? An example would be 'The wind whispered through the trees.'

  1. A
  2. B
  3. C
  4. D

Explanation

Personification gives human qualities to non-human entities, as in 'the wind whispered.' A is incorrect because hyperbole is an extreme exaggeration. B is incorrect because onomatopoeia uses words that imitate sounds, like 'buzz' or 'crash.' C is incorrect because alliteration is the repetition of initial consonant sounds in nearby words.

Question 9 · Reading Literature

The moment of greatest tension or turning point in a story, after which the outcome becomes clear, is called what? This is generally the most exciting or dramatic moment in the narrative.

  1. A
  2. B
  3. C
  4. D

Explanation

The climax is the peak moment of tension and turning point in the plot after which the conflict begins to resolve. A is incorrect because the exposition is the beginning of the story where characters and setting are introduced. B is incorrect because the resolution is the conclusion where loose ends are tied up. D is incorrect because rising action is the series of events building toward the climax.

Question 10 · Reading Literature

A figure of speech that makes a direct comparison between two unlike things without using the words 'like' or 'as' is called what? For example, 'Life is a journey' uses this device.

  1. A
  2. B
  3. C
  4. D

Explanation

A metaphor directly states that one thing is another, making a comparison without 'like' or 'as.' A simile also compares two unlike things but uses 'like' or 'as' to make the comparison. Personification attributes human qualities to non-human objects or abstract concepts. Hyperbole is an exaggerated statement not meant to be taken literally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Maryland passing score for Praxis 5038?

The Maryland passing score for the Praxis 5038 (English Language Arts: Content Knowledge) is 157. This is set by MSDE and differs from other states. Always verify current requirements at msde.maryland.gov.

What is the MSDE score recipient code for Maryland?

The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) score recipient code is 7403. Select this code at every Praxis registration to have your scores sent directly to MSDE for licensure processing.

How long do I have to wait to retake the Praxis 5038?

Maryland requires a 28-day wait between Praxis 5038 attempts. This wait applies regardless of your score. Plan your test dates accordingly.

How many questions are on the Praxis 5038?

The Praxis 5038 contains 120 selected-response questions plus 2 constructed-response items (for PLT exams). You have 2 hours to complete the exam.

What domains does the Praxis 5038 cover?

The Praxis 5038 covers content knowledge specific to English Language Arts: Content Knowledge. See the official ETS test framework for the complete domain breakdown.

How long are Praxis 5038 scores valid in Maryland?

Praxis scores are valid for 10 years from the test date in Maryland. Scores do not expire for the purposes of Maryland teacher certification within this window.

Can I use a calculator on the Praxis 5038?

No on-screen calculator is provided for the Praxis 5038.

Does PraxisPass tell me when I'm ready to book the Praxis 5038?

Yes. PraxisPass is the only platform that tells you exactly when to book your exam. When your Pass Probability Score (PPS) for the 5038 reaches 90%, sustained over 7 consecutive days with 2 passing mock exams, PraxisPass declares you ready and prompts you to schedule.

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PraxisPass offers a permanent free tier that includes your Exam Readiness Score diagnostic, Pass Probability Score baseline, and your first complete 25-minute study mission for the 5038. The Individual plan at $19/month unlocks unlimited study sessions across all 50+ Maryland Praxis exams.