The Praxis Biology: Content Knowledge (5235) exam is a test used to evaluate the knowledge and skills of prospective entry-level Biology teachers for secondary school.
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Praxis Biology (5235) Exam Outline
This exam contains 150 selected-response questions and has a time limit of 2 hours. There are several different forms of selected-response questions, any combination of which may appear on the exam:
- Single-selection multiple-choice
- Hot spot
- Drop-down
- Numeric entry
- Sentence selection
- Drag-and-drop
The exam is organized into six content categories.
I. Nature of Science: Scientific Inquiry, Methodology, Techniques, and History (21 questions)
The questions in this category cover the following topics:
- Reading and interpreting data found in charts, graphs, and tables
- Using and caring for lab equipment appropriately and safely
- Scientific inquiry processes
- How scientific ideas change over time
- Safe preparation, storage, use, and disposal procedures
- Contributions made by major historical figures
- Construction and use of scientific models to explain complex concepts
II. Molecular and Cellular Biology (30 questions)
The questions in this category cover the following topics:
- The dependency of biological processes on chemical principles
- Cellular division
- The cell cycle
- Chemical structures
- Properties of biologically important molecules
- Nucleic acid structure and functions
- Biochemical pathways within an organism
- Regulation of gene expression
- Eukaryotes vs. prokaryotes
- How cells are regulated
- Nature of mutations
- Using basic techniques to study biological processes
- Differentiation and specialization of cells
III. Genetics and Evolution (30 questions)
The questions in this category cover the following topics:
- Evolution mechanics
- Non-Mendelian inheritance
- Evidence that supports evolution
- Genetic variation sources
- Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium
- Common human genetic disorders
- Factors of species extinction
- Evolutionary rate models
- Genetic basis of speciation
IV. Diversity of Life and Organismal Biology (30 questions)
The questions in this category cover the following topics:
- Biological classification systems of organisms (current and historical)
- Anatomy and physiology of major organ systems
- Major plant division characteristics
- Major animal phyla characteristics
- Maintenance of homeostasis in organisms
- Plant life cycles
- How plants transport and store photosynthesis products
- Major plant tissue and organ structure and functions
V. Ecology: Organisms and Environments (24 questions)
The questions in this category cover the following topics:
- Population growth models
- Biome types and characteristics
- Relationship between reproductive strategies and mortality rates
- Biogeochemical cycles
- How humans affect ecological systems and biodiversity
- Changes that occur during ecological succession
- Relationships between and within species
VI. Science, Technology, and Social Perspectives (15 questions)
The questions in this category cover the following topics:
- How humans and natural phenomena have impacted society
- Ethical and societal issues pertaining to the use of science and technology
- How science and technology have impacted the environment
- How the management of natural resources has impacted society
Praxis Biology: Content Knowledge Study Guide
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Praxis Biology (5235) Registration
To register for the Praxis Biology Content Knowledge 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 the day of the test, you should arrive at the testing center 15-30 minutes before the scheduled testing time. Once you arrive, you will be asked to show your admission ticket and two forms of valid identification, one of which must be a valid, government-issued photo ID.
Personal items will not be allowed into the testing center, so it is best to leave things like bags, notebooks, and food items at home or in your car. Any items you bring with you must be stored in a secure locker in the testing center before you enter 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 receive a piece of scratch paper for notes.
Remote Testing
To take the exam remotely, you must use a non-touchscreen laptop or desktop computer. Tablets and smartphones are not allowed. You will also need a functioning webcam, speakers, and a microphone.
Before exam day, you will need to download and install the ETS Secure Test Browser on your computer. 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 Praxis Biology (5235) Exam is Scored
Your Praxis score is based on the number of questions you answer correctly. This is known as your raw score. The raw score is then converted to a scaled score. The scaled score you need to obtain differs slightly depending on which state you take the exam in, but the passing score is generally 150.
You should receive an official score report about 5 weeks after testing.
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FAQs
Q
How many questions are on the Praxis Biology: Content Knowledge (5235) exam?
A
There are 150 selected-response questions on the exam.
Q
How long is the Praxis Biology: Content Knowledge (5235) exam?
A
The time limit for the exam is 2 hours.
Q
What is the passing score for the Praxis Biology: Content Knowledge (5235) exam?
A
The passing score for this exam differs depending on which state you take the exam in.
Q
How much does the Praxis Biology: Content Knowledge (5235) exam cost?
A
The examination fee is $130.
