The NES Biology exam is used to assess the readiness of prospective teachers who wish to teach biology in schools that follow the NES standards.
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NES Biology Exam Outline
The NES Biology (305) exam contains 150 multiple-choice questions and has a time limit of 3 hours.
The exam is split into five content domains.
I. Nature of Science (20%)
The questions in this domain cover the following:
- Principles and procedures of scientific inquiry
- The history and nature of science
- The relationships among biology, mathematics, technology, society, and engineering
II. Biochemistry and Cell Biology (13%)
The questions in this domain cover the following:
- The chemistry of living systems
- Cell structure, function, and bioenergetics
III. Genetics and Evolution (27%)
The questions in this domain cover the following:
- Molecular genetics
- Patterns and processes of inheritance
- The mechanisms of biological evolution
- The scientific explanations and evidence for the history of life on Earth
IV. Biological Unity and Diversity (20%)
The questions in this domain cover the following:
- The structures and functions of organisms and their life cycles
- The maintenance of homeostasis by obtaining, storing, and using energy and matter
- The anatomy and physiology of human organ systems
V. Ecology and Environment (20%)
The questions in this domain cover the following:
- Populations and communities
- Ecosystems and biomes
- The effects of human activities on the biosphere
The NES Biology (316) exam contains 100 multiple-choice questions, and you will be given a 2-hour time limit.
The exam is split into three content domains.
I. Structures and Processes of Cells and Organisms (40%)
The questions in this domain cover the following:
- The characteristics and behaviors of the molecules and atoms necessary for life
- The components of living things
- The flow of energy and matter cycles in different organisms
- Maintenance, growth, and reproduction of organisms
II. Ecosystem Interactions and Dynamics (30%)
The questions in this domain cover the following:
- The relationships between organisms within an ecosystem
- The passing of energy and matter through ecosystems
- The impact of humans on ecosystems
III. Heredity and Evolution (30%)
The questions in this domain cover the following:
- Inheritance
- Natural selection
- Adaptation
- The diversity of life
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NES Biology Exam Registration
To register for the NES Biology exam, you must first create an online account on the NES website. You may then register for your examination appointment with Pearson VUE.
The testing fee for this exam is $95.
Test Day
On test day, you should arrive at the Pearson VUE testing center about 30 minutes before the exam is scheduled to begin. This will give you enough time to complete the check-in process. Once you arrive, you must sign in and present your photo ID to the proctor. You will be photographed and asked to sign a roster and other rule forms.
Personal items are not allowed in the testing room, so they should be left at home or in your car. This includes your phone, bags, wallet, keys, and any accessories.
Just before the exam starts, you will be given a brief tutorial on the testing system. You will also be given everything you need to work out any calculations by hand (no calculator will be provided).
How the NES Biology Exam is Scored
Your NES Biology score is determined using a scaled scoring method. This method takes your raw score, which is the number of questions you answered correctly, and converts it to a numerical score on a scale of 100 to 300. To pass, your final score must be at least 220.
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FAQs
Q
How many questions are on the NES Biology (316) exam?
A
There are 100 multiple-choice questions on the exam.
Q
How long is the NES Biology (316) exam?
A
The time limit for the exam is 2 hours.
Q
What is the passing score for the NES Biology (316) exam?
A
To pass the exam, you must achieve a scaled score of at least 220.
Q
How much does the NES Biology (316) exam cost?
A
The examination fee is $95.
