The Praxis General Science exam is required in all states for any candidate who wishes to become a certified science teacher for secondary school. The test measures your knowledge of the core content included in the standardized curriculum of a secondary school general science class.
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Exam Outline
The Praxis (5435) exam contains 135 selected-response questions and has a time limit of 2.5 hours.
The exam is split into five content categories, which are designed to cover the various competencies and points of knowledge that a secondary school general science teacher should possess.
I. Scientific Methodology, Techniques, and History (15 questions)
The questions in this category assess your knowledge and skills in the following:
- Scientific methodology, techniques, and history
- Processes involved in scientific data collection and manipulation
- Interpreting and drawing conclusions from data presented in tables, maps, charts, and graphs
- Procedures for correct preparation, storage, use, and disposal of laboratory materials
- Using standard equipment in the lab and in the field
- Safety and emergency procedures in the lab
- Major historical scientific developments
II. Physical Science (51 questions)
The questions in this category assess your knowledge and skills in the following:
- Basic principles
- Chemistry
- Physics
III. Life Science (27 questions)
The questions in this category assess your knowledge and skills in the following:
- Basic structure and function of cells and their organelles
- Key aspects of cell reproduction and division
- Basic biochemistry of life
- Basic genetics
- Theory and key mechanisms of evolution
- Hierarchical classification scheme
- Major structures and functions of plants
- Basic anatomy and physiology of animals, including humans
- Key aspects of ecology
IV. Earth and Space Science (27 questions)
The questions in this category assess your knowledge and skills in the following:
- Physical geology
- Historical geology
- Earth’s bodies of water
- Meteorology and climate
- Astronomy
V. Science, Technology, and Society (15 questions)
The questions in this category assess your knowledge and skills in the following:
- Impact of science and technology on the environment and society
- Major issues with energy production and natural resources management
- Applications of science and technology in daily life
- Impact of science on public health issues
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Exam Registration
To register for the Praxis General Science exam, you will need to create an online account with ETS. Through this account, you can submit an application to take the exam.
During registration, you will be asked to select the test-taking format (remote or at a testing center), test location (if you are taking the test at a testing center), and test date. You will also need to pay the $130 exam fee.
Test Day
In-person Testing
On exam day, you should arrive at the testing center between 15 and 30 minutes before the scheduled testing appointment to allow extra time for the check-in process. For check-in, you will be asked to provide a printed copy of your admission ticket and two forms of valid identification. If your identification is invalid, you will not be able to take the exam and your exam fee will be forfeited.
You will also be asked to store all personal items, such as your cell phone, notebooks, bags, and food items, in a secure locker before entering the testing area.
Once the check-in process is complete and you are fully approved for testing, you will be led to the testing station and given a brief tutorial on the testing system.
Remote Testing
If you want to take the exam remotely, you will need to use a laptop or desktop computer that has the ETS Secure Test Browser downloaded and installed on it. This is the browser you must use to take the exam. You will also need a functioning internal or external webcam, speakers, and microphone.
When you check in to take the exam, the remote proctor will ask you to show proof of identification and to move your webcam around the room so that your testing area can be observed. Once the proctor has approved your testing area, they will walk you through the testing process and begin your exam.
How the Exam is Scored
Your Praxis General Science exam score is based on the number of questions you answer correctly, which is known as your raw score. To determine your final score, this raw score is converted to a scaled score. The scaled score you need to obtain differs slightly depending on which state you take the exam in, but most states require a minimum score of 152.
You should receive an official score report about five weeks after testing.
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FAQs
Q
How many questions are on the Praxis General Science (5435) exam?
A
There are 135 selected-response questions on the exam.
Q
How long is the Praxis General Science (5435) exam?
A
The time limit for the exam is 2.5 hours.
Q
What is the passing score for the Praxis General Science (5435) exam?
A
The score you need to pass the exam differs depending on which state you take the exam in. Most states require a minimum scaled score of 152.
Q
How much does the Praxis General Science (5435) exam cost?
A
The examination fee is $130.
