California Teacher Preparation: Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) Test
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RICA FAQs
People Also Ask
There is a lot of information to know to pass the RICA test. There is also a lot of information to know regarding the way the RICA test is administered and how the results are given.
Our aim is to provide you with all of the necessary information to help your RICA test taking experience become more smooth and enjoyable.
We hope it helps!
What is the RICA test?
The RICA test stands for Reading Instruction Competence Assessment. It is a test taken by California elementary teachers and education specialists in order to obtain a teaching credential.
The exam is administered Pearson Education, Inc.
How difficult is the RICA exam?
The RICA exam is the most difficult exam that a teacher needs to pass throughout the career of being a teacher.
According to this article, only 67.4% of examinees pass on the first try.
Who needs to take the RICA test?
People who complete the Multiple Subject Teaching Credential or Educational Specialist Instruction Credential programs in California need to take and pass the RICA test.
Will the RICA test be removed?
Although there has been a lot of talk about removing the RICA test, the newest update is that the RICA test has been sectioned into three separate tests. As of this time, the RICA test will continue to be required for California elementary teachers and specialists.
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How long do RICA results take?
If you take the RICA test in-person, at a designated Pearson testing center, results come back within four weeks.
If you take the test remotely, the test results come back within three weeks.
What happens if you can't pass the RICA?
Passing the RICA is tough! However, you are able to take the test as many times as you need.
Who is exempt from RICA?
According to this page, the following groups in people are exempt from taking the RICA test:
What is a passing score on the RICA?
Although the RICA test is now split into three subtests, the passing score is still 220.
How much does the RICA test cost?
Each subtest costs $57, or a total of $171 for all three tests.
How can I prepare for the RICA exam?
Is the RICA multiple choice?
All three of the RICA tests are composed of a split of multiple-choice questions and essay questions. The breakdown can be best seen using the following tables:
What are the 5 domains of the RICA?
Domain 1: Planning, Organizing, and Managing Reading Instruction Based on Ongoing Assessment
Domain 2: Word Analysis
Domain 3: Fluency
Domain 4: Vocabulary, Academic Language, Background Knowledge
Domain 5: Comprehension
How many case studies are on the RICA?
Although the RICA test has what is known as short and long essays that are on the subtest 1 and subtest 2, there is only one case study question that is in subtest 3.
When should I take the RICA exam?
People are allowed to take the RICA exam at anytime; however, for purposes of planning to find a full-time teaching position, teachers will want to make sure they have received a passing score before they graduate from their Multiple Subjects Teaching Credential Program.
What do I need to know for the RICA?
The RICA is a large test that is made up of a lot of information. The exam is built to assess a teacher’s understanding of providing effective reading instruction, so knowing about teaching reading to elementary-aged students will be necessary.
In order to make sure you are fully prepared for the RICA test, we recommend studying with our test prep course.
What is the RICA video performance assessment?
The most popular RICA test for teachers is the written test; however, the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing also accepts a video submission in place of taking the written exam.
The CTC states, “The RICA Video Performance Assessment offers candidates the option of an evaluation based on actual classroom performance rather than a written examination. Candidates who choose the Video Performance Assessment create and submit video recordings of themselves teaching reading.”
Can you take the RICA online?
Yes! This is a new update to the new RICA test format. In order to learn more about taking the RICA test online, read this page.
