CalTPA FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need to get a score of 4 or 5 on every rubric to pass?

• Not at all. The CalTPA is scored on a composite (total) score. While you should aim for at least a "3" on every rubric to ensure you're meeting the standard, a high score in one area can balance out a lower score in another. Check the current year's "Passing Standard" on the CTC website for the exact total number required.

What happens if a student’s face is visible, but they don't have a signed consent form?

• This is a major compliance issue. You must either blur the student’s face using video editing software or ensure that the student is sitting "off-camera" during the recording. If a non-consented student is identifiable, your submission may be voided.

Can I use the same lesson for Cycle 1 and Cycle 2?

• It is highly discouraged. Cycle 1 is about a single lesson, while Cycle 2 is about a learning segment (multiple lessons). Even if the topics overlap, the evidence requirements are different enough that using the exact same material often leads to scoring errors.

How long should my written commentaries be? 

• There are page limits for most templates (usually around 10–15 pages). However, quality over quantity is the rule. If you can answer the prompt thoroughly in 6 pages, don’t fluff it to 10. Use the rubric language to ensure you’ve hit the markers.

My video audio is a bit muffled. Will I be penalized?

• Scorers need to hear what you and the students are saying to give you credit. If the audio is poor, use the captioning feature or provide a transcript for those specific segments. If they can’t hear the evidence, they can’t score it.