All prospective teachers in the state of Texas who are
seeking certification to teach science and related courses to grades four
through eight are required to take and pass this exam. It is designed to
evaluate the skills and knowledge that teachers at an entry level need for this
field of learning.
Who is Eligible?
There are several ways you can be eligible to take this or
any other TExES exams:
If you are affiliated with or part of an Educator
Preparation Program (EPP) or are an out of state candidate, you will first need
to get the approval of your EPP or school district. You will then be required
to create a TEA login account and get a TEA ID number. This number is then used
to create a TExES testing account, where you can register and pay for your exam.
If you are taking this exam as a Pre-admission Content Test
candidate, through a charter school, or as a certification by exam candidate
you will not need to create a TEA account, as you should already have a TEA ID
number through your school or program. This ID can then be used to create your
TExES testing account and register for an exam.
There is a fee of $116 to take this exam.
When and Where is it Taken?
This exam can be scheduled year-round by appointment at
Pearson VUE testing facilities. Locations are scattered throughout the state of
Texas and nationwide.
Choose a location and time that best suits you and your
needs. However, it is recommended that you register for your preferred testing
session as early as possible as space and seating are limited and filled on a
first come, first served basis.
Special accommodations are available to those with
disabilities and cannot take the exam under normal conditions.
You may reschedule or cancel your testing session for any
reason up until the last 48 hours before your original exam. Changes cannot be
made any later than this and will result
in the forfeiture of your exam fees.
What Should I Bring?
It is important to arrive for your exam at least 15 minutes
early to allow for enough time to complete the required check-in process and to
make sure you are ready for the exam. If you arrive late, you will not be able
to test that day and will have to reschedule and pay another fee.
You are required to bring at least two forms of ID to the
testing center. Your primary ID must be a government-issued photo ID with your
full name and signature. Your secondary ID must contain either your full name
and signature or your full name and photo.
No personal items are permitted in the testing area. These
must be kept in a designated area for the duration of the exam. These include
but are not limited to:
- Calculators and cell phones
- Food and drinks
- Outerwear or jewelry
- Bags and purses
- Pencils, books, or study materials
If you are found in violation of this, you will be immediately dismissed and your scores will be voided. You will be provided with an
on-screen periodic table.
What is Covered?
This exam consists of 100 selected-response questions
divided into five main sections or domains.
You will have a total of five hours to complete the entire
test, including 15 minutes for a brief computer tutorial and compliance
agreement.
Scientific Inquiry
and Processes (22%)
Correct use of tools and materials to ensure a safe and
effective learning environment, the impact of science on daily life, basic and
common science concepts and processes
Physical Sciences
(22%)
Forces and motion, physical and chemical properties of
matter, energy transformations
Life Science (22%)
Structure and function of living things, reproduction, and heredity, evolution and adaptation,
regulatory mechanisms and behavior
Earth and Space Science
(22%)
Earth systems, weather and climate, solar systems and the
universe, history of earth systems
Science Learning,
Instruction, and Assessment (13%)
Student learning processes, scientific inquiry roles in
instruction, assessments to monitor performance
How is it Scored?
Exam results are released on your TExES account at 10 pm
central time on the date listed for your exact exam date and will be
automatically sent to TEA and your EPP, if applicable. You must earn a scaled score
of at least 240 to pass this exam.
If you pass, you can
apply for certification at least 7-10 business days after your scores were
released. This can be done through your ECOS/TEA account.
Retakes are available after a 45-day waiting period. You are limited to only five certification exam attempts.
How Can I Prepare for the TExES Science 4-8 Test?
That’s a great question. We’ve broken down the answer into three parts.
- Do yourself a favor and study. Do not walk in unprepared. We have recommended prep materials below, but that only helps if you actually try. Plus, studying is actually proven to be the best antidote to test anxiety.
- Take care of yourself. Make sure you’re eating well, exercising, and sleeping. All of these things are scientifically linked to brain performance. If you take care of your body, you’ll be helping your grades.
- Get a study guide or set of flashcards. Some people study better a certain way. Find your study strengths and make the most of them. We’ve tried to make it easy for you by tracking down the best study guide and flashcard set for your exam. Below you’ll see links to both!