Music EC-12
Study & Test Strategies

Strategy 1

Submitted by Texas Teachers

Study Strategy

I began by answering the sample test questions available on the TEA resource pages (found under "Music EC-12 Study Guide" and "Music EC-12 Overview"). Those aren't the exact link names, but can be found on the TEA website. These are PDF guides that have sample questions with correct responses and rationales. I also found sample test questions on the TMEA website with listening examples. I suggest taking these sample tests before studying to identify weak areas that need to be revisited. The theory questions were not too difficult, but I would review intervals and instrument transpositions on the (amazing!) interactive website Teoria.com.

Testing Strategy

The 177 Music EC-12 was easier than I expected, but there were some challenging questions about instrumental techniques. Most of the questions dealt with band, but there were a few vocal range questions too. I suggest reading the Music EC-12 overview before studying; this explains in detail which domains will be covered in the exam. Listening (25%) and Classroom Performance (25%) carry the most weight.

Strategy 2

Submitted by Texas Teachers

Study Strategy

I used the Pass the TExES exam book, however it was more of a how to prepare for the exam. I also used the Music EC-12 TExES Secrets book; it had a lot of definitions and a great study guide and practice exam. I went to TMEA sessions they have for the exam and it was the best thing of all. The handouts were amazing, especially for the theory section. Talk to others that have taken the test and they can give some insight on their experience with the exam.

Testing Strategy

Know all of the disciplines of music (winds, strings, voice, and guitar). The listening section was pretty straight forward, no major surprises in that. Be ready for the listening to go by really fast. There were a lot of mixed questions on techniques,including fingering a chord on guitar and brass. The test was fair for the most part. I didn't walk out confident that I passed, but I did. Good luck!

Strategy 3

Submitted by Texas Teachers

Study Strategy

In addition to the free downloadable material from ETS, I highly recommend taking the Texas Qualifier Exam. This is available to non-students for $25 at Univ. of Houston. It has 80 questions, some of which I saw again on the MUS 177 exam, and this test is very representative of what you will encounter on your real test day. From what I could tell, there are very few other legitimately useful resources. Judging by online reviews, books like those you can buy at Barnes & Nobles are overpriced and do not prepare you.

Testing Strategy

This test was harder than I expected, mostly because my degree was in voice, and there were many band pedagogy questions. Remember to answer every question, even those you don't know. It is worth studying copyright protocol for the classroom, and TEKS guidelines for music. There was also one BLOOM question. These are easy points if you study for them. A majority of questions were music theory, and it is worth the time brushing up on your modes, cadences, chord progressions, suspensions, etc.

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