240's TExES CORE Subjects EC-6 (391): English Language Arts and Reading Study Guide Is 95% Test-Aligned
240's TExES CORE Subjects EC-6 (391): English Language Arts and Reading study guide is built around the official exam framework so you can study what is actually tested. This page shows exactly how the guide maps to the real exam — SMR by SMR and competency by competency — so you can see where coverage is strongest, where some depth gaps remain, and how each part of the guide supports your prep.
95%
test-aligned
80
Fully covered
9
Partially covered
0
Coverage gap
Based on a competency-by-competency review of the official framework and the lessons, practice questions, flashcards, videos, and study materials included in this guide.
1747
Practice Questions
389
Flashcards
90
Study Materials
29
Videos
Why Test Alignment Matters for Your TExES CORE Subjects EC-6 (391): English Language Arts and Reading Study Guide
Certification test standards are broad, but the exam questions are very specific. Our team of curriculum experts uses the 240 Study Guide Creation Process to ensure the most aligned, specific content for your TExES CORE Subjects EC-6 (391): English Language Arts and Reading (391) test — so you are not wasting time on broad subject review that may not show up on exam day.
Why 240 Is the Best Choice for the TExES 391 Study Guide
- Built around the official exam framework
- Organized by the competencies actually used on the exam
- Shows exactly what is covered and where depth is partial
- Includes aligned questions, flashcards, study materials, and videos
- Helps candidates study what is actually tested instead of broad generic content
Transparent coverage is a strength. We show where the guide is strong, where depth is partial, and where a gap has been identified so you can make an informed study decision.
How to Read This Alignment Review
10 domains · 89 competencies reviewed · 95% test-aligned
Covered— competency is comprehensively supported by the guide
Partially covered— core content is covered, but some depth gaps remain
Coverage gap identified— a content gap has been identified
This study guide is based on the current official exam framework
We review and update alignment whenever the official framework changes so candidates are always studying current, accurate material.
(ORAL LANGUAGE): THE TEACHER UNDERSTANDS THE IMPORTANCE OF ORAL LANGUAGE, KNOWS THE DEVELOPMENTAL PROCESSES OF ORAL LANGUAGE, AND PROVIDES STUDENTS WITH VARIED OPPORTUNITIES TO DEVELOP LISTENING AND SPEAKING SKILLS. (DOMAIN 001)
Covered
183 Qs10 Materials51 Cards4 VideosCovered
| Official Competency | Matching 240 Topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Knows and teaches basic linguistic concepts and the developmental stages in the acquisition of oral language—including phonology, semantics, syntax (subject-verb agreement and subject-verb inversion), and pragmatics—as appropriate for students in grades 4–6 and recognizes that individual variations occur within and across languages. | ELA.Basic Linguistic Concepts; ELA.Teaching - Basic Linguistic Concepts; ELA.Dialects and Variations in Language | Covered | 58 | 3 | 20 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (58 questions, 3 materials, 20 cards, 1 videos). |
| B. Plans and implements systematic oral language instruction based on informal and formal assessment of all students, including English learners; fosters oral language development; and addresses students' individual needs, strengths, and interests in grades 4–6. | ELA.Teaching - Oral Language; ELA.ELL Strategies - Oral Language; ELA.Assessment - Oral Language | Covered | 55 | 3 | 11 | 2 | Covered by 3 topics (55 questions, 3 materials, 11 cards, 2 videos). |
| C. Designs a variety of one-on-one and group activities (e.g., having discussions, questioning, sharing information) to build on students' current oral language skills. | ELA.Teaching - Using Groups; ELA.Teaching - Oral Language | Covered | 40 | 2 | 8 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (40 questions, 2 materials, 8 cards, 1 videos). |
| D. Selects and uses instructional materials and strategies for students in grades 4–6 that respond to students' individual needs, strengths, and interests; reflect cultural diversity; and build on students' cultural, linguistic, and home backgrounds to enhance their oral language development. | ELA.Teaching - Oral Language | Covered | 19 | 1 | 4 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (19 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 1 videos). |
| E. Provides instruction that interrelates oral and written language to promote students' reading and writing proficiencies. | ELA.Oral Language to Support Reading and Writing | Covered | 20 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos). |
| F. Selects and uses instructional strategies, materials, activities, and models to teach students in grades 4–6 skills for speaking to various audiences for various purposes and for adapting spoken language for various audiences, purposes, and occasions. | ELA.Communicating for Different Purposes (EC) | Covered | 4 | 1 | 18 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (4 questions, 1 materials, 18 cards, 0 videos). |
| G. Selects and uses instructional strategies, materials, activities, and models to teach students listening skills for various purposes (e.g., critical listening to evaluate a speaker's message, listening to enjoy and appreciate spoken language) and provides students with opportunities to engage in active, purposeful listening in a variety of contexts. | ELA.Active Listening | Covered | 25 | 1 | 1 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (25 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 1 videos). |
| H. Selects and uses instructional strategies, materials, activities, and models to teach students in grades 4–6 to evaluate the content and effectiveness of their own spoken messages and the messages of others. | ELA.Teaching - Oral Language; ELA.Active Listening | Covered | 44 | 2 | 5 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (44 questions, 2 materials, 5 cards, 2 videos). |
(WORD ANALYSIS AND IDENTIFICATION SKILLS): THE TEACHER UNDERSTANDS THE IMPORTANCE OF WORD ANALYSIS AND IDENTIFICATION SKILLS FOR READING COMPREHENSION AND PROVIDES MANY OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS TO PRACTICE AND IMPROVE THESE SKILLS. (DOMAIN 002)
Partially covered
141 Qs7 Materials52 Cards4 VideosPartially covered
| Official Competency | Matching 240 Topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Uses a variety of instructional approaches and materials to promote students' phonetic, graphophonemic, and morphophonemic knowledge as outlined in the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for grades 4–6. | ELA.Teaching - Word Identification Skills | Covered | 27 | 1 | 8 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (27 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos). |
| B. Understands the importance of word recognition skills (e.g., structural analysis, identifying and reading high-frequency words from a research-based list, contextual analysis) for reading comprehension and knows a variety of strategies for helping students in grades 4–6 develop and apply word analysis skills, including identifying, categorizing, and using common synonyms, antonyms, homographs, homophones, and analogies. | ELA.Teaching - Word Identification Skills; ELA.Syntax and Semantics; ELA.Teaching - Determining Meaning of Words | Covered | 89 | 3 | 33 | 2 | Covered by 3 topics (89 questions, 3 materials, 33 cards, 2 videos). |
| C. Selects and uses instructional strategies, materials, activities, and models to teach students in grades 4–6 to read high-frequency words, to promote the students' ability to decode increasingly complex words, and to enhance word identification skills of students who read at varying levels. | ELA.Teaching - Determining Meaning of Words | Covered | 52 | 1 | 13 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (52 questions, 1 materials, 13 cards, 1 videos). |
| D. Knows and teaches strategies for decoding increasingly complex words, including advanced vowel-sound combinations, structural or morphological elements (e.g., prefixes, suffixes, roots, base words), and syllable types and syllable division patterns, and for using syntax and semantics to support word identification and confirm word meaning for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Syntax and Semantics; ELA.Word Analysis from Roots and Affixes; ELA.Syllable Awareness for Spelling and Pronunciation; ELA.Teaching - Determining Meaning of Words | Covered | 102 | 4 | 39 | 4 | Covered by 4 topics (102 questions, 4 materials, 39 cards, 4 videos). |
| E. Understands the value of using dictionaries, glossaries, and other sources to determine the meanings, usage, pronunciations, correct spelling, and derivations of unfamiliar words and teaches students in grades 4–6 how to use these sources. | ELA.Resources - Word Analysis Skills | Covered | 12 | 1 | 6 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (12 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos). |
| F. Understands how to foster collaboration with families and with other professionals to promote all students' skills in word analysis and identification. | ELA.Community Collaboration - Word Analysis Skills | Partially covered | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (0 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
(READING FLUENCY): THE TEACHER UNDERSTANDS THE IMPORTANCE OF FLUENCY FOR READING COMPREHENSION AND PROVIDES MANY OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS TO IMPROVE THEIR READING FLUENCY. (DOMAIN 003)
Covered
151 Qs7 Materials20 Cards2 VideosCovered
| Official Competency | Matching 240 Topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Knows the relationship between reading fluency and comprehension for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Impact of Fluency on Comprehension | Covered | 12 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (12 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos). |
| B. Understands that fluency involves rate, accuracy, prosody, and intonation and knows the norms for reading fluency that have been established by the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for grades 4–6. | ELA.Measures of Fluency | Covered | 17 | 1 | 5 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (17 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 1 videos). |
| C. Understands the connection of word identification skills and reading fluency to reading comprehension for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Impact of Fluency on Comprehension | Covered | 12 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (12 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos). |
| D. Understands differences in students' development of word identification skills and reading fluency and knows instructional practices for meeting students' individual needs in those areas for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Process of Learning and Intervention - Reading Fluency | Covered | 27 | 1 | 3 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (27 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos). |
| E. Selects and uses instructional strategies, materials, and activities to develop and improve fluency for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Teaching - Reading Fluency | Covered | 47 | 1 | 13 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (47 questions, 1 materials, 13 cards, 0 videos). |
| F. Knows how to teach students in grades 4–6 strategies for reading books independently, including the use of technology to support grade-level content. | ELA.Developing Readers | Covered | 27 | 1 | 5 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (27 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 1 videos). |
| G. Provides students with opportunities to engage in silent reading and extended reading of a wide range of materials, including informational texts and texts from various literary genres, as outlined in the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for grades 4–6. | ELA.Developing Readers | Covered | 27 | 1 | 5 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (27 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 1 videos). |
| H. Uses strategies to encourage reading for pleasure and lifelong learning. | ELA.Promoting a Love of Reading | Covered | 13 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (13 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos). |
| I. Recognizes the interrelationship between reading fluency and the other components of reading for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Impact of Fluency on Comprehension | Covered | 12 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (12 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos). |
| J. Understands how to foster collaboration with families and with other professionals to promote all students' reading fluency in grades 4–6. | ELA.Community Collaboration - Promoting Fluency | Covered | 8 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (8 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
(READING COMPREHENSION AND APPLICATIONS): THE TEACHER UNDERSTANDS THE IMPORTANCE OF READING FOR UNDERSTANDING, KNOWS THE COMPONENTS AND PROCESSES OF READING COMPREHENSION, AND TEACHES STUDENTS STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVING THEIR COMPREHENSION, INCLUDING USING A VARIETY OF TEXTS AND CONTEXTS. (DOMAIN 004)
Partially covered
377 Qs14 Materials118 Cards10 VideosPartially covered
| Official Competency | Matching 240 Topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Understands factors affecting reading comprehension (e.g., word analysis skills, prior knowledge, language background/experience, previous reading experiences, fluency, vocabulary development, ability to monitor understanding, characteristics of specific texts) for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Fundamentals of Reading Comprehension | Partially covered | 5 | 1 | 1 | 1 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (5 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 1 videos); limited supporting content. |
| B. Understands levels of reading comprehension and knows how to model and teach skills for literal comprehension (e.g., identifying stated main idea, recalling details, identifying point of view), inferential comprehension (e.g., inferring themes, making predictions), and evaluative comprehension (e.g., analyzing character development, detecting faulty reasoning) for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Levels of Comprehension | Covered | 20 | 1 | 3 | 2 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 2 videos). |
| C. Provides instruction in comprehension skills that support the transition of students in grades 4–6 from "learning to read" to "reading to learn" (e.g., setting a purpose for reading; applying knowledge of text structures; using text features such as pronunciation guides, introductions, and sidebars) to become self-directed, critical readers. | ELA.Teaching - Reading Comprehension (All Texts); ELA.Teaching - Reading Comprehension (Informational Texts) | Covered | 134 | 2 | 48 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (134 questions, 2 materials, 48 cards, 1 videos). |
| D. Uses various instructional strategies to enhance reading comprehension (e.g., linking text content to students' lives and prior knowledge, connecting related ideas across different texts, comparing different versions of the same story, explaining the meaning of common idioms and adages, engaging students in guided and independent reading, guiding students to generate questions and apply knowledge of text topics) for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Teaching - Common Idioms and Foreign Phrases; ELA.Teaching - Comparing Texts | Covered | 20 | 2 | 13 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (20 questions, 2 materials, 13 cards, 0 videos). |
| E. Knows and teaches strategies that facilitate comprehension of different types of texts (e.g., literary, informational, argumentative) before, during, and after reading (e.g., previewing, making predictions, questioning, self monitoring, rereading, mapping, using reading journals, discussing texts) for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Elements of Literary Analysis Across Genres; ELA.Teaching - Literary Analysis | Covered | 55 | 2 | 26 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (55 questions, 2 materials, 26 cards, 2 videos). |
| F. Knows and teaches strategies that facilitate making connections between and across multiple texts (e.g., summarizing and paraphrasing, locating and distinguishing between facts and opinions, determining whether a text supports or opposes an issue) for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Teaching - Reading Comprehension (All Texts); ELA.Teaching - Reading Comprehension (Informational Texts) | Covered | 134 | 2 | 48 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (134 questions, 2 materials, 48 cards, 1 videos). |
| G. Understands metacognitive skills, including self-evaluation and self monitoring skills, and teaches students to use those skills to enhance their reading comprehension in grades 4–6. | ELA.Teaching - Active Reading | Covered | 20 | 1 | 3 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 1 videos). |
| H. Knows how to provide students in grades 4–6 with systematic, explicit instruction and reinforcing activities to promote the use of strategies to improve their reading comprehension (e.g., previewing, self-monitoring, visualizing, summarizing). | ELA.Teaching - Reading Comprehension (All Texts) | Covered | 94 | 1 | 20 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (94 questions, 1 materials, 20 cards, 1 videos). |
| I. Selects and uses instructional strategies, materials, and activities to guide students' understanding of their own culture and the cultures of others through reading in grades 4–6. | ELA.Culturally Responsive Reading Instruction | Covered | 20 | 1 | 5 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 1 videos). |
| J. Understands and teaches the features of various literary genres, including folktales, fables, legends, myths, realistic fiction, historical fiction, tall tales, drama, and poetry, and promotes the development of literary response and analysis skills by providing multiple opportunities for students in grades 4–6 to listen to and respond to literature and to interact with others about literature. | ELA.Literary Genres; ELA.Types of Figurative Language | Covered | 70 | 2 | 50 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (70 questions, 2 materials, 50 cards, 1 videos). |
| K. Knows the difference between guided and independent practice in reading and provides students in grades 4–6 with frequent opportunities for both. | ELA.Developing Readers | Covered | 27 | 1 | 5 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (27 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 1 videos). |
| L. Understands how to foster collaboration with families and with other professionals to promote all students' reading comprehension in grades 4–6. | ELA.Community Collaboration - Reading Comprehension | Partially covered | 6 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
(VOCABULARY DEVELOPMENT): THE TEACHER KNOWS THE IMPORTANCE OF VOCABULARY DEVELOPMENT AND APPLIES THAT KNOWLEDGE TO TEACH READING, LISTENING, SPEAKING, AND WRITING. (DOMAIN 005)
Covered
103 Qs5 Materials21 Cards1 VideosCovered
| Official Competency | Matching 240 Topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Knows how to provide explicit, systematic instruction and reinforcing activities to help students in grades 4–6 increase their vocabulary. | ELA.Teaching - Increasing Vocabulary | Covered | 53 | 1 | 14 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (53 questions, 1 materials, 14 cards, 1 videos). |
| B. Knows how to use formal and informal methods to effectively teach vocabulary to students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Teaching - Increasing Vocabulary; ELA.Teaching - Word Consciousness | Covered | 65 | 2 | 15 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (65 questions, 2 materials, 15 cards, 1 videos). |
| C. Selects and uses a wide range of instructional materials (e.g., literary, informational, argumentative, multimodal, and digital texts), strategies, and opportunities with rich contextual support for vocabulary development for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Teaching - Increasing Vocabulary | Covered | 53 | 1 | 14 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (53 questions, 1 materials, 14 cards, 1 videos). |
| D. Recognizes the importance of selecting, teaching, and modeling a wide range of general and specialized vocabularies for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Choosing Targeted Vocabulary Words | Covered | 11 | 1 | 3 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (11 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos). |
| E. Understands how to assess and monitor vocabulary knowledge for students in grades 4–6 by providing systematic, age-appropriate instruction and reinforcing activities (e.g., morphemic analysis, etymology, use of graphic organizers, contextual analysis, multiple exposures to a word in various contexts). | ELA.Assessment - Vocabulary | Covered | 16 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (16 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos). |
| F. Provides multiple opportunities to listen to, read, and respond to various types of literary and informational texts to promote the vocabulary development of students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Teaching - Increasing Vocabulary; ELA.Teaching - Increasing Vocabulary Using Writing | Covered | 64 | 2 | 16 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (64 questions, 2 materials, 16 cards, 1 videos). |
(READING, INQUIRY, AND RESEARCH): THE TEACHER UNDERSTANDS THE IMPORTANCE OF INQUIRY AND RESEARCH SKILLS TO STUDENTS' ACADEMIC SUCCESS AND PROVIDES INSTRUCTION THAT PROMOTES STUDENTS' ACQUISITION AND EFFECTIVE USE OF THESE SKILLS IN THE CONTENT AREAS. (DOMAIN 006)
Partially covered
243 Qs10 Materials54 Cards4 VideosPartially covered
| Official Competency | Matching 240 Topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Teaches students how to develop open-ended research questions and a plan (e.g., timeline) to locate, retrieve, and record information from a range of primary and secondary sources. | ELA.The Research Process; ELA.Types of Sources; ELA.Teaching - The Research Process | Covered | 75 | 3 | 18 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (75 questions, 3 materials, 18 cards, 1 videos). |
| B. Selects and uses instructional strategies to help students comprehend abstract content and ideas in written materials (e.g., examples, graphic organizers). | ELA.Teaching - Reading Comprehension (All Texts) | Covered | 94 | 1 | 20 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (94 questions, 1 materials, 20 cards, 1 videos). |
| C. Selects and uses instructional strategies to teach students to interpret information presented in various formats (e.g., maps, tables, graphs) and how to locate, retrieve, and record information from technologies, print resources, and experts. | ELA.Teaching - Media Analysis; ELA.Teaching - Graphic Representations of Informational Text | Covered | 23 | 2 | 10 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (23 questions, 2 materials, 10 cards, 0 videos). |
| D. Selects and uses instructional strategies to help students use inquiry and research skills across the curriculum (e.g., brainstorming to generate questions and topics; locating, organizing, evaluating, summarizing, paraphrasing, and communicating information; differentiating between primary and secondary sources; selecting and using relevant, credible sources). | ELA.Teaching - The Research Process; ELA.Credible Sources; ELA.Proper Use of Source Information | Covered | 79 | 3 | 19 | 2 | Covered by 3 topics (79 questions, 3 materials, 19 cards, 2 videos). |
| E. Knows grade-level expectations for inquiry and research skills outlined in the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) (e.g., in fourth and fifth grades, develop and follow a research plan with adult assistance; in sixth grade, refine the major research question through use of secondary questions). | ELA.TEKS Benchmarking - Inquiry and Research | Partially covered | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (1 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| F. Provides instruction to develop a topic sentence, summarize findings, and use evidence to support conclusions. | ELA.Teaching - The Research Process | Covered | 31 | 1 | 8 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (31 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos). |
| G. Understands how to foster collaboration with peers, with families, and with other professionals to promote all students' ability to develop effective inquiry and research skills in the content areas. | ELA.Community Collaboration - Research Skills | Partially covered | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (2 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
(WRITING CONVENTIONS): THE TEACHER UNDERSTANDS THE CONVENTIONS OF WRITING IN ENGLISH AND PROVIDES INSTRUCTION THAT HELPS STUDENTS DEVELOP PROFICIENCY IN APPLYING WRITING CONVENTIONS. (DOMAIN 007)
Covered
108 Qs6 Materials35 Cards1 VideosCovered
| Official Competency | Matching 240 Topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Understands that many students go through predictable stages in acquiring writing conventions (e.g., physical and cognitive processes involved in word writing, sentence construction, spelling, punctuation, grammatical expression) and that individual students vary in their rates of development of those conventions. | ELA.Process of Learning - Spelling; ELA.Stages of Writing Development | Covered | 42 | 2 | 11 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (42 questions, 2 materials, 11 cards, 1 videos). |
| B. Provides spelling instruction and gives students opportunities to use and develop spelling skills in the context of meaningful written expression (e.g., commonly confused terms, simple and complex contractions). | ELA.Teaching - Spelling | Covered | 26 | 1 | 19 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (26 questions, 1 materials, 19 cards, 0 videos). |
| C. Selects and uses instructional strategies, materials, and hands-on activities for developing graphomotor skills necessary for writing, according to gradelevel expectations in the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for grades 4–6. | ELA.Teaching - Fine Motor Skills for Writing | Covered | 14 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (14 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos). |
| D. Selects and uses instructional strategies, materials, and activities to help students use English writing conventions (e.g., grammar, capitalization, punctuation) in connected discourse. | ELA.Teaching - Proper Writing and Grammar Conventions | Covered | 15 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (15 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos). |
| E. Recognizes the similarities and differences between spoken and written English (e.g., syntax, vocabulary choice, audience) and uses instructional strategies to help students apply English writing conventions and enhance their own writing. | ELA.Teaching - Spoken vs Written English | Covered | 11 | 1 | 9 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (11 questions, 1 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos). |
| F. Knows writing conventions and appropriate grammar and usage and provides students with direct instruction and structured practice in those areas. | ELA.Teaching - Proper Writing and Grammar Conventions | Covered | 15 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (15 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos). |
| G. Selects and uses instructional strategies, materials, and activities to teach correct pencil grip. | ELA.Teaching - Fine Motor Skills for Writing | Covered | 14 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (14 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos). |
(WRITTEN COMMUNICATION): THE TEACHER UNDERSTANDS THAT WRITING TO COMMUNICATE IS A DEVELOPMENTAL PROCESS AND PROVIDES INSTRUCTION THAT PROMOTES STUDENTS' COMPETENCE IN WRITTEN COMMUNICATION. (DOMAIN 008)
Partially covered
228 Qs13 Materials60 Cards2 VideosPartially covered
| Official Competency | Matching 240 Topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Teaches purposeful, meaningful writing in connection with listening, reading, and speaking. | ELA.Teaching - Writing Skills; ELA.Writing to Support Reading | Covered | 34 | 2 | 7 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (34 questions, 2 materials, 7 cards, 0 videos). |
| B. Knows how to promote students' development of an extensive reading and writing vocabulary by providing students with many opportunities to read and write. | ELA.Importance of - Vocabulary and Reading Skills | Covered | 14 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (14 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
| C. Monitors students' writing development and provides motivational instruction that addresses individual students' needs, strengths, and interests. | ELA.Effective ELA Learning Environment; ELA.Teaching - Writing Feedback | Covered | 27 | 2 | 14 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (27 questions, 2 materials, 14 cards, 0 videos). |
| D. Understands differences between first-draft writing and writing for publication and provides instruction in various stages of writing, including prewriting, drafting, revising (including both self-revision and peer revision), and editing. | ELA.Teaching - Stages of the Writing Process; ELA.Teaching - Revision and Editing Skills | Covered | 38 | 2 | 10 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (38 questions, 2 materials, 10 cards, 1 videos). |
| E. Understands the benefits of technology for teaching basic writing skills and writing for publication and provides instruction in the use of technology to facilitate written communication. | ELA.Teaching Technology - Writing Skills | Covered | 20 | 1 | 8 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos). |
| F. Understands writing for a variety of audiences, purposes, and settings and provides students with opportunities to write for various audiences, purposes, and settings and in various voices and styles. | ELA.Writing Types and Various Contexts; ELA.Teaching - Writing Types and Various Contexts (EC) | Covered | 58 | 2 | 13 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (58 questions, 2 materials, 13 cards, 1 videos). |
| G. Teaches students to use appropriate conventions to support ideas in writing and to use an appropriate form of documentation to acknowledge sources (e.g. quotations, bibliographical information, differentiation between paraphrasing and plagiarism). | ELA.Teaching - The Research Process | Covered | 31 | 1 | 8 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (31 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos). |
| H. Knows grade-level expectations for written communication as described in the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for grades 4–6. | ELA.TEKS Benchmarking - Writing (4-6) | Partially covered | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (2 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| I. Understands how to foster collaboration with families and with other professionals to promote students' development of writing skills. | ELA.Community Collaboration - Writing Skills | Partially covered | 4 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (4 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
(VIEWING AND REPRESENTING): THE TEACHER UNDERSTANDS SKILLS FOR INTERPRETING, ANALYZING, EVALUATING, AND PRODUCING VISUAL IMAGES AND MESSAGES IN VARIOUS TYPES OF MEDIA, INCLUDING ELECTRONIC MEDIA, AND PROVIDES STUDENTS WITH OPPORTUNITIES TO DEVELOP SKILLS IN THIS AREA. (DOMAIN 009)
Partially covered
86 Qs7 Materials21 Cards0 VideosPartially covered
| Official Competency | Matching 240 Topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Knows grade-level expectations for viewing and representing visual images and messages as described in the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for grades 4–6. | ELA.TEKS Benchmarking - Media (4-6) | Partially covered | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (1 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| B. Understands and teaches the characteristics and functions of different types of media (e.g., film, print) and knows how different types of media influence and inform. | ELA.Types of Media | Covered | 10 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
| C. Teaches students to compare and contrast print, visual, and electronic media, including the level of formality of each (e.g., email, Web-based news article, blogs). | ELA.Teaching - Media Analysis | Covered | 15 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (15 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
| D. Teaches students to evaluate how visual image makers (e.g., illustrators, documentary filmmakers, political cartoonists, news photographers) represent messages and meanings and provides students with opportunities to interpret and evaluate visual images in various media. | ELA.Teaching - Media Analysis | Covered | 15 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (15 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
| E. Knows how to teach students to analyze visual image makers' choices (e.g., style, elements, media) and evaluate how those choices help represent or extend meaning. | ELA.Teaching - Media Analysis | Covered | 15 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (15 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
| F. Provides students with opportunities to interpret events and ideas based on information from maps, charts, graphics, video segments, and technology presentations and to use media to compare ideas and points of view. | ELA.Teaching - Media Analysis | Covered | 15 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (15 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
| G. Knows steps and procedures for teaching students to produce visual images and messages with various meanings to communicate with others. | ELA.Teaching - Oral Presentation Skills; ELA.Teaching Technology - Media Tools | Covered | 54 | 2 | 14 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (54 questions, 2 materials, 14 cards, 0 videos). |
| H. Teaches students how to select, organize, and produce visuals to complement and extend meanings. | ELA.Teaching Technology - Media Tools | Covered | 14 | 1 | 6 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (14 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos). |
| I. Provides students with opportunities to use technology for producing various types of communications (e.g., class newspapers, multimedia reports, video reports) and helps students analyze how language, medium, and presentation contribute to the message. | ELA.Teaching Technology - Oral Presentation Skills; ELA.Teaching Technology - Media Tools | Covered | 16 | 2 | 6 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (16 questions, 2 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos). |
| J. Understands how to foster collaboration with families and with other professionals to promote students' development of media literacy. | ELA.Community Collaboration - Media Literacy | Partially covered | 4 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (4 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
(ASSESSMENT OF DEVELOPING LITERACY): THE TEACHER UNDERSTANDS THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF LITERACY ASSESSMENT AND USES A VARIETY OF ASSESSMENTS TO GUIDE LITERACY INSTRUCTION. (DOMAIN 010)
Covered
297 Qs15 Materials65 Cards3 VideosCovered
| Official Competency | Matching 240 Topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Knows how to select and administer formative and summative assessments to students in grades 4–6 and use results to measure literacy skills (e.g., word analysis and word identification skills, fluency, comprehension, writing conventions, written communications, visual images, inquiry skills) and address individual students' needs identified in informal and formal assessments. | ELA.Assessment and Intervention - Phonics and Word Analysis; ELA.Assessment - Reading Comprehension; ELA.Assessment - Reading Fluency; ELA.Assessment and Intervention - Proper Writing and Grammar Conventions; ELA.Assessment - Writing Skills; ELA.Assessment - Viewing and Representing Media | Covered | 142 | 6 | 17 | 1 | Covered by 6 topics (142 questions, 6 materials, 17 cards, 1 videos). |
| B. Knows the characteristics of informal and formal reading comprehension assessments (e.g., criterion-referenced state tests, curriculum-based reading assessments, informal reading inventories, norm-referenced tests). | ELA.Types of Assessment | Covered | 51 | 1 | 18 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (51 questions, 1 materials, 18 cards, 1 videos). |
| C. Analyzes students' reading and writing performance and uses the information as a basis for instruction in grades 4–6. | ELA.Assessment - Writing Skills | Covered | 20 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos). |
| D. Knows the state content and performance standards for reading, writing, listening, and speaking that constitute the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) and recognizes when a student needs additional help or intervention to bring the student's performance up to grade level for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Planning and Adjusting Reading Instruction | Covered | 24 | 1 | 9 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (24 questions, 1 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos). |
| E. Knows how to determine students' independent, instructional, and frustration reading levels and uses the information to select appropriate materials for individual students and to guide students' selection of independent reading materials in grades 4–6. | ELA.Determining Reading Level; ELA.Measures of Text Complexity - Five Finger Rule; ELA.Measures of Text Complexity - Three-Part Model | Covered | 36 | 3 | 9 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (36 questions, 3 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos). |
| F. Uses ongoing assessments to determine when a student may be in need of classroom intervention or specialized reading instruction and to develop appropriate instructional plans for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Planning and Adjusting Reading Instruction | Covered | 24 | 1 | 9 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (24 questions, 1 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos). |
| G. Understands the use of writing in assessment of students and provides opportunities for students to self-assess and peer-assess writing (e.g., for clarity, interest to audience, comprehensiveness) and their ongoing literacy development. | ELA.Teaching - Self and Peer Writing Assessment | Covered | 15 | 1 | 9 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (15 questions, 1 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos). |
| H. Knows how to select, administer, and use results from informal and formal assessments of literacy skills for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Assessment and Intervention - Phonics and Word Analysis; ELA.Assessment - Reading Comprehension; ELA.Assessment - Reading Fluency; ELA.Assessment and Intervention - Proper Writing and Grammar Conventions; ELA.Assessment - Writing Skills; ELA.Assessment - Viewing and Representing Media | Covered | 142 | 6 | 17 | 1 | Covered by 6 topics (142 questions, 6 materials, 17 cards, 1 videos). |
| I. Analyzes students' errors in reading and responds to individual students' needs by providing focused instruction to promote literacy skills. | ELA.Assessment - Running Records | Covered | 9 | 1 | 8 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (9 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 1 videos). |
| J. Knows informal and formal procedures for assessing students' use of writing conventions and uses multiple, ongoing assessments to monitor and evaluate students' development in that area. | ELA.Assessment and Intervention - Proper Writing and Grammar Conventions | Covered | 20 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos). |
| K. Uses ongoing assessments of writing conventions to determine when students need additional help or intervention to bring students' performance to grade level based on state content and performance standards for writing in the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for grades 4–6. | ELA.Assessment - Writing Skills | Covered | 20 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos). |
| L. Analyzes students' errors in applying writing conventions and uses the results of the analysis as a basis for future instruction for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Assessment and Intervention - Proper Writing and Grammar Conventions | Covered | 20 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos). |
| M. Selects and uses a variety of formal and informal procedures for monitoring students' reading comprehension and adjusts instruction to meet the needs of individual students, including English learners, for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.ELL Assessment - Reading Comprehension | Covered | 12 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (12 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos). |
| N. Understands how to foster collaboration with families and how to communicate information about students' progress and ongoing literacy development to parents/caregivers and to other professionals through a variety of means, including the use of examples of students' work, for students in grades 4–6. | ELA.Communicating Assessment Results | Covered | 8 | 1 | 3 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (8 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos). |
How 240 Creates The TExES CORE Subjects EC-6 (391): English Language Arts and Reading (391) Study Guide
Learn more →Every 240 study guide starts with the official exam framework. From there, we organize lessons, practice, and study tools around the categories the exam uses to measure candidate knowledge.
1
Review the official exam framework
We begin with the standards, domains, competencies, objectives, or content categories published by the testing authority.
2
Map the tested categories
We map every major area the exam is designed to cover so the guide reflects the real structure of the test.
3
Build lessons around tested content
We create study materials to support the official blueprint, not broad filler content.
4
Cross-check practice against exam expectations
We review practice content against the framework and real exam patterns so preparation stays targeted.
5
Review and update as standards change
When official frameworks change, we review guides and update alignment as needed.
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Why 240 Is Better Than Other Generic Study Guides
Not all study guides are built the same way. Here is what separates a test-aligned guide from a generic one — and why it matters when you are preparing for the TExES CORE Subjects EC-6 (391): English Language Arts and Reading.
Generic
Generic Prep
✕Covers broad subject areas without structure
✕No clear connection to the official exam framework
✕Practice questions may not reflect the real test format
✕May not update when official standards change
~Can be helpful for quick, broad review
Test-aligned
240 Test-Aligned TExES 391 Prep
✓Every lesson maps to an official domain or competency
✓Built directly from the official exam framework
✓Practice questions aligned to what the exam actually measures
✓A clear study path by tested category
✓Study smarter and enter test day more prepared
FAQs About the TExES CORE Subjects EC-6 (391): English Language Arts and Reading Study Guide
The questions teacher candidates ask us most often about the TExES CORE Subjects EC-6 (391): English Language Arts and Reading study guide.
1
Is 240 a good study guide for TExES CORE Subjects EC-6 (391): English Language Arts and Reading?
240 is a strong option because the guide is built around the official exam framework and shows detailed alignment by SMR and competency.
2
How closely does 240 align to the TExES 391 exam?
This guide is 95% aligned based on a competency-by-competency review of the official framework and the study resources included in the guide.
3
Does 240 cover every competency?
This page shows coverage transparently across covered, partially covered, and identified gaps so candidates can see exactly how the guide maps to the exam.
4
What does “partially covered” mean?
Partially covered means the guide addresses the core parts of a competency, but some depth or subtopics may still be limited.
Study What's Actually on the TExES 391 Exam
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