Praxis Exams

Every teacher is required to pass the praxis exams in their specific area of study. There are normally at least two different Praxis tests that have to be completed for example: Praxis I and Praxis II's. Last November I completed the Praxis I's. It consisted of a math section, literature section and essay. Basically the exam was exactly like the SAT's. I would suggest if you want to study to go to Barns and Noble and buy a Praxis I and II study book. The book contains practice tests with answers and also has a few pages of general rules and guidelines for taking the exam. Now that I have successfully passed the Praxis I's I am looking to sign up for the Praxis II's. To do this you need to go to www.ets.org and follow the directions for registration. If you are not sure if there is a testing site near you, you can find out on this site. Finally you can choose if you would like to take paper based or computer based test. I have heard mixed reviews of both but it is your preference. Make sure you specify which test you want to take when registering. If you have any questions about the exams feel free to ask me and I will try my best to answer. I am not sure what to expect for the Praxis II's but I would be more than happy to help answer questions about Praxis I's or registration. Good Luck! 

The Core Classes

All English majors are required to take three core classes ENG 194, ENG 295 and ENG 296. Since I transfered here last Spring semester I have had to pack the core classes into my schedule and I have realized how ridiculous all these "writing emphasis" classes are. I enjoy writing and I enjoy English but packing six writing emphasis classes in one semester two of them being 295 and 296 is way to much! I know it was my decision to take six classes but the requirements are just overwhelming. I spend my life with my nose in a book and my fingers typing papers, it is just to much! I think the University needs to diminish the number of writing emphasis classes so the English majors are not so overwhelmed and can focus on a few less books and a few less papers. Are there any other majors out there that have been destroyed by to much repetitive work?

New Handbook

So about three weeks ago West Chester came out with a new "English Majors Handbook" and I was so excited to read through it becuase I thought it was just going to be informative but instead I found out they changed around many of the classes B.S.E.D students must take. Actually one of the classes that I am taking this semester is no longer a requirement for B.S.E.D majors so as I always do ... I worried!
So this week I decided to take a breather and talk to my advisor about it when she informed me that I can still follow the same handbook I was before. So note to everyone .. if they come out with new requirments for your major you are still able to follow your the requirments you have been following. The new requirments are normally only for incoming students.