WEST-B Test Prep Study Guide

What comes with Cirrus Test Prep’s WEST-B Study Guide?

You probably think this is a typical study guide. However, Cirrus Test Prep’s unofficial WEST-B Test Prep Study Guide: Exam Prep and Practice Test Questions for the WEST-B Reading, Writing, and Mathematics Examination (095/096/097) isn't like other study guides. Because we know you value your time, our unofficial study guide includes a quick yet full review of everything on the test with real examples, graphics, and information. Cirrus Test Prep’s NEW WEST-B Test Prep Study Guide gives you the edge you need to score higher and pass the first time.

Best of all, Cirrus Test Prep’s WEST-B Test Prep Study Guide offers you:

  • A full review of what you need to know for the WEST-B exam

  • WEST-B practice questions for you to practice and improve and worked through practice problems with explanations

  • Test tips and strategies to help you score higher

  • Real world examples

Our WEST-B prep book covers all the material that will be on your exam, including:

  • Algebra

  • Geometry

  • Statistics and Probability

  • Reading Skills

  • Language and Research Skills

  • Writing the Essay

  • Numbers and Operations

… and also comes with a FULL WEST-B practice test, so that you will be ready on test day.

But before you buy WEST-B Test Prep Study Guide, you may find yourself wondering, what is the WEST-B? What is on the WEST-B? How is the WEST-B scored? How is the WEST-B administered? We are the WEST-B experts, and we are happy to answer all your questions below!


Some Frequently Asked Questions about the WEST-B…

What is the WEST-B?

The WEST–B is an exam used by teacher preparation programs in Washington State to measure applicants’ aptitude in reading, writing, and mathematics. It is made up of three subtests in these subjects. The WEST–B is also used for teachers seeking certification in Washington State who are already certified in another state. You may take the subtests individually on separate dates, or you may take them all on the same date. While there are other WEST tests for specific academic subjects you may also be required to take, these core subjects are essential for anyone entering the teaching profession.

What is on the WEST-B?

The WEST–B tests gauge college-level skills in mathematics, reading, and writing in accordance with the Common Core State Standards. Each test—Reading, Writing, and Mathematics—is broken down into different categories based on the skills needed to succeed in a teacher preparation program.

On the Reading Test (095), you will read and answer questions about fiction and nonfiction passages, which will be of varying length. Some will be paired. They may be taken from any reading material an educated adult is likely to encounter, including novels, newspapers, magazines, articles on current events, and visual representations.

The Writing Test (096) tests your ability to analyze purpose, production and types of text, and your language and research skills. You will write two essays and answer multiple-choice questions.

The Mathematics Test (097) focuses on numbers, measurement, algebra and functions, geometry, statistics and probability, and mathematical reasoning. A calculator will appear on screen when you are permitted to use one. A list of mathematical symbols, abbreviations, and formulas will also be made available.

How is the WEST-B scored?

Each multiple-choice question is worth one raw point. The total number of questions you answer correctly is added up to obtain your raw score. Your raw score is then scaled. A passing score is 240. To pass the WEST–B, you must pass all of the subtests.

Essay responses are scored by two separate graders (who are unaware of each other’s evaluations of your work) based on five criteria: focus and appropriateness, unit and organization, development and rationale, usage and sentence structure, and mechanical conventions. Each essay is graded holistically on a scale of 1 – 4. If the two graders’ scores differ by more than a point, a third grader will be assigned to read it. The two scores are then added together to create the total score.

Keep in mind that a small number of multiple-choice questions are experimental and will not count toward your overall score. ETS uses these to test out new questions for future exams. However, as those questions are not indicated on the test, you must respond to every question. There is no penalty for guessing on the test, so be sure to eliminate answer choices and answer every question. If you still do not know the answer, guess; you may get it right!

How is the WEST-B administered?

The WEST–B is a computer-based test offered continuously at a range of universities and testing centers both in Washington State and throughout the US. It may be taken in its individual parts or all at once. Check the testing center’s website for more information. You will need to print your registration ticket from your online account and bring it, along with your identification, to the testing site on test day. No pens, pencils, erasers, or calculators are allowed; on the Mathematics portion of the exam, a calculator will automatically appear on the computer screen for certain questions. You may take the test once every 45 days.

Why should I use Cirrus Test Prep’s WEST-B study material?

Developed by experienced current and former educators, Cirrus Test Prep’s study materials help future educators gain the skills and knowledge needed to successfully pass their state-level teacher certification exams and enter the classroom. Each Cirrus Test Prep study guide includes: a detailed summary of the test’s format, content, and scoring; an overview of the content knowledge required to pass the exam; worked-through sample questions with answers and explanations; full-length practice tests including answer explanations; and unique test-taking strategies with highlighted key concepts. Cirrus Test Prep’s study materials ensure that new educators feel prepared on test day and beyond.

Where can I buy WEST-B Test Prep Study Guide?

You can find WEST-B Test Prep Study Guide for purchase on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Just click the link next to our book, the image of our book itself, or the links we provided in the sentence above!

Pearson Education, Inc. was not involved in the creation or production of this product, is not in any way affiliated with Cirrus Test Prep, and does not sponsor or endorse this product.