For aspiring special education teachers in Texas, understanding the TExES certification exams is a critical step toward obtaining the appropriate teaching license. Two of the most discussed exams are TExES 161 Special Education EC-12 and TExES 163 Special Education Supplemental. At first glance, they may seem similar because both relate to special education, but their purpose, content, and application differ significantly. Knowing the difference between TExES 161 and 163 is essential for educators planning their certification pathway and preparing for teaching roles in Texas schools.
Overview of TExES Exams
The Texas Examinations of Educator Standards (TExES) are designed to assess whether an individual has the knowledge and skills required to teach in the state of Texas. Each exam focuses on a specific content area or teaching role. Special education is a vital component of the state’s education system, and TExES offers multiple exams to ensure that teachers are properly prepared to meet the diverse needs of students.
What Is TExES 161?
TExES 161 refers to the Special Education EC-12 exam. This is a comprehensive certification test that measures the candidate’s ability to teach students with special needs across all grade levels, from early childhood (EC) through grade 12. Passing this exam qualifies a teacher to be the primary instructor in a special education classroom.
Key Features of TExES 161
- Grade Level Coverage: Early childhood through grade 12.
- Role: Certifies a teacher to serve as the teacher of record in special education settings.
- Format: Multiple-choice questions with scenario-based applications.
- Domains Covered:
- Understanding Individuals with Disabilities and Evaluating Their Needs
- Promoting Student Learning and Development
- Promoting Student Achievement in English Language Arts and Reading and in Mathematics
- Foundations and Professional Roles and Responsibilities
Who Should Take TExES 161?
This exam is ideal for candidates who intend to become full-time special education teachers and assume responsibility for designing, implementing, and assessing individualized education programs (IEPs). It is comprehensive and requires extensive knowledge of teaching strategies, behavioral interventions, and content adaptation for various disabilities.
What Is TExES 163?
TExES 163 is the Special Education Supplemental exam. Unlike TExES 161, this is not a stand-alone certification. Instead, it serves as an additional endorsement for teachers who already hold a content-area teaching certification but want to add special education as a supplemental subject.
Key Features of TExES 163
- Grade Level Coverage: Typically aligns with the grade range of the existing teaching certificate.
- Role: Allows a certified teacher to provide special education services alongside their primary teaching role.
- Format: Multiple-choice questions focusing on special education foundations and instructional strategies.
- Domains Covered:
- Understanding Individuals with Disabilities
- Implementing Effective Instruction for Students with Disabilities
- Supporting Learning and Behavior Management
Who Should Take TExES 163?
This exam is intended for teachers who already hold certification in another area, such as elementary education or secondary math, and want to extend their qualifications to include special education services. It is not sufficient to become a teacher of record in a special education classroom but is useful for collaborative teaching roles and inclusion settings.
Major Differences Between TExES 161 and 163
While both exams address special education, their scope, depth, and purpose differ considerably. Below are the most important differences:
1. Certification Purpose
- TExES 161: Grants full certification to teach special education across all grade levels as the primary instructor.
- TExES 163: Provides a supplemental certification to support special education within an existing teaching role.
2. Scope and Coverage
- TExES 161: Covers instructional strategies, curriculum modification, and content-specific adaptations for reading, writing, and mathematics for special education students.
- TExES 163: Focuses on foundational knowledge, collaboration, and support strategies without deep emphasis on content-specific teaching methods.
3. Eligibility Requirements
- TExES 161: Requires completion of an educator preparation program for special education or related qualifications.
- TExES 163: Requires an existing standard teaching certificate in a core subject area.
4. Career Opportunities
- TExES 161: Opens doors to roles such as special education teacher, resource teacher, or self-contained classroom instructor.
- TExES 163: Enables teachers to co-teach in inclusion classrooms, provide targeted support, or work as a consultant teacher in special education settings.
5. Exam Complexity
- TExES 161: Considered more comprehensive and challenging due to its wide content coverage.
- TExES 163: Narrower in scope, focusing primarily on supplemental strategies and compliance requirements.
Which Exam Should You Choose?
The choice between TExES 161 and TExES 163 depends on your career goals and current certification status:
- If you want to be a full-time special education teacher, you must take TExES 161.
- If you are already certified in another subject and want to support special education without changing your main teaching role, TExES 163 is the right choice.
Preparation Tips for Both Exams
Regardless of the exam you choose, preparation is key to success. Here are some tips:
- Review official TExES exam frameworks and competency areas.
- Use practice tests to familiarize yourself with the question format.
- Focus on understanding laws and policies related to special education, such as IDEA and Section 504.
- Study instructional strategies for diverse learners, including those with learning disabilities and behavioral challenges.
Both TExES 161 and 163 play an important role in shaping qualified special education professionals in Texas. TExES 161 is designed for those who aim to specialize fully in special education teaching, while TExES 163 provides supplemental support for teachers who want to extend their expertise. Understanding these differences ensures you select the right path for your teaching career and meet the needs of students with disabilities effectively. Preparing thoroughly for your chosen exam will not only help you pass but also equip you with the knowledge and confidence to make a meaningful impact in the classroom.