STAAR EOC Tests Guide

STAAR End-of-Course (EOC) exams for Algebra I, English I, English II, Biology, and U.S. History are typically taken by high school students. These tests are administered upon completion of the corresponding courses, regardless of the specific grade level.

Here's a breakdown of when students generally take these exams:

End-of-Course (EOC) Exams

• Algebra I: Usually taken in 9th grade, but some advanced students may take it in 8th grade.
• English I: Typically taken in 9th grade.
• English II: Usually taken in 10th grade.
• Biology: Generally taken in 9th or 10th grade, depending on the school's curriculum.
• U.S. History: Typically taken in 11th grade.

It's important to note that these EOC assessments are required for high school graduation in Texas. Students must pass these tests to satisfy the requirements for obtaining their high school diploma.

For all EOC tests: 

• Both multiple-choice and non-multiple choice questions are included 

• Most questions are worth 1 point 

• Some questions are worth 2 points 

• Each test includes field test questions that don't count toward your score 

Algebra I covers understanding of algebraic concepts like equations, inequalities, functions, quadratic equations, and some geometry. It's designed to assess problem-solving, reasoning, and application of mathematical processes. 

Total Questions: 50 questions 

• 41 one-point questions 

• 9 two-point questions - Total Possible Points: 59 

Main Topics Tested: 

• Number and Algebraic Methods (9-11 questions) 

• Linear Functions, Equations, and Inequalities (22-26 questions combined) 

• Quadratic Functions and Equations (9-11 questions) 

• Exponential Functions and Equations (5-7 questions) 

English I focuses on reading comprehension (both literary and informational texts), vocabulary development, writing composition (including expository, narrative, and persuasive essays), and grammar/mechanics. 

English II is similar to English I but with more complex texts, deeper analysis, advanced writing skills, and a stronger emphasis on research and inquiry. 

Both tests have the same structure and use the same question types: 

Total Questions: 52 questions 

• 48 one-point questions 

• 3 two-point questions 

• 1 extended response (worth 10 points) Total Possible Points: 64 

Test Structure: Reading Section (29-31 questions)  

• Two single reading passages 

• One paired reading passage (two related passages) 

• Writing Section (21-23 questions)  

• Two revising passages 

• Two editing passages 

• One extended response (essay) Maximum reading load

Reading Passage Types: 

• Literary: Fiction, Drama, Poetry, Literary Nonfiction 

• Non-literary: Informational, Argumentative, Correspondence, Persuasive 

Biology tests knowledge of cellular processes, genetics, evolution, ecology, and human biology. Emphasis is placed on scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and the application of scientific knowledge. 

Total Questions: 45 questions 

• 37 one-point questions 

• 8 two-point questions Total Possible Points: 53 

Main Topics Tested: 

• Cell Structure and Function (8-10 questions) 

• Mechanisms of Genetics (8-10 questions) 

• Biological Evolution and Classification (8-10 questions) 

• Biological Processes and Systems (8-10 questions) 

• Interdependence within Environmental Systems (8-10 questions) 

U.S. History evaluates students' understanding of major historical events, eras, and figures in American history, with a focus on critical thinking, analysis of primary sources, and interpretation of historical data. 

Total Questions: 64 questions 

• 50 one-point questions (multiple-choice and non-multiple choice) 

• 14 two-point questions (non-multiple choice) Total Possible Points: 78 points 

Main Topic Areas Tested: 

History (28-30 questions)  

• Largest section of the test 

• Tests knowledge of major historical events, periods, and figures 

• Worth 33-38 points total 

Geography and Culture (10-12 questions)  

• Covers U.S. geography and cultural developments 

• Worth 10-14 points total 

Government and Citizenship (8-10 questions)  

• Focuses on American government systems and civic responsibilities 

• Worth 9-13 points total 

Economics, Science, Technology, and Society (14-16 questions)  

• Covers economic developments and technological advances in U.S. history 

• Worth 16-21 points total 

The STAAR End-of-Course (EOC) exams assess two types of standards: Readiness Standards and Supporting Standards. 

Readiness Standards (55-70% of test points) 

Key characteristics: 

• Essential for success in the current grade or course 

• Important for preparedness for the next grade or course 

• Support college and career readiness 

• Necessitate in-depth instruction 

• Address significant content and concepts 

Readiness Standards are designed to: 

• Emphasize the integration and application of major concepts 

• Focus on specific genres in reading and writing 

• Highlight landmark events and foundational concepts in social studies 

Supporting Standards (30-45% of test points) 

Key characteristics: 

• Introduced in the current grade or course 

• Reinforce concepts from previous grades 

• Play a role in preparing students for future learning 

• Address more narrowly defined content and concepts 

Supporting Standards typically: 

• Apply to additional genres in reading and writing 

• Focus on skills that underlie mathematical concepts 

• Cover content that supports fundamental scientific principles 

• Address discrete historical facts, events, or individual people 

All STAAR questions: 

• Are written to align with Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) 

• Are reviewed by Texas educators for grade-level appropriateness 

• Are field-tested with Texas students before being used on actual tests 

• Must pass multiple review steps before appearing on official tests 

Success on the STAAR EOC tests requires thorough preparation and understanding of both Readiness and Supporting Standards. Students should focus their study efforts on the core concepts while maintaining a balanced approach to all tested subjects. Regular practice with EOC test questions, particularly in algebra, biology, English, and history, can help build confidence and improve performance.  

Whether you're preparing for the algebra STAAR practice test, biology STAAR practice test, English STAAR EOC, or history STAAR EOC, understanding the test structure and standards is crucial for success. Various EOC practice tests and practice EOC test questions are available to help students prepare effectively for these important assessments.