Coverage by content domain
Lessons and questions are organized around the exam’s content areas so your preparation reflects the structure of the assessment.
Why Test Alignment Matters for Your CSET Foundational Level General Science Study Guide
Certification test standards are broad, but the exam questions are very specific. Our team of curriculum experts uses the 240 Study Guide Creation Process to ensure the most aligned, specific content for your CSET Foundational Level General Science (215) test — so you are not wasting time on broad subject review that may not show up on exam day.
Why 240 is the best choice for the CSET 215 study guide
- Built around the official exam framework
- Organized by the competencies actually used on the exam
- Shows exactly what is covered and where depth is partial
- Includes aligned questions, flashcards, study materials, and videos
- Helps candidates study what is actually tested instead of broad generic content
Transparent coverage is a strength. We show where the guide is strong, where depth is partial, and where a gap has been identified so you can make an informed study decision.
How to Read This Alignment Review
4Domains
121Competencies reviewed
92%Test-aligned
102Covered
18Partially covered
1Gaps
- CoveredCompetency is comprehensively supported by the guide.
- Partially coveredCore content is covered, but some depth gaps remain.
- Coverage gap identifiedA content gap has been identified.
This study guide is based on the current official exam framework. We review and update alignment whenever the official framework changes so candidates are always studying current, accurate material.
Scientific Practices, Engineering Design and Applications, and Crosscutting Concepts (Domain I)Partially covered
SMR I.1 · Understand scientific practices.285 questions · 27 materials · 165 cards · 7 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of how to ask questions that can be addressed by scientific investigation, help further understanding of observed phenomena, and help clarify scientific explanations and relationships. | S.Repeatability; S.Limits of Science | Covered | 16 | 2 | 2 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (16 questions, 2 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Apply knowledge of the development of important scientific ideas and models over time and of how history shows that evaluating a model's merits and limitations leads to its improvement. | S.Nature of Science; S.Key History of Science; S.Famous Experiments | Covered | 33 | 3 | 66 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (33 questions, 3 materials, 66 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Apply knowledge of planning and conducting scientific investigations, including safety considerations and the use of appropriate tools and technology. | S.Scientific Method; S.Experimental Investigations; S.Non-Experimental Investigations; S.Safety Rules; S.Emergency Procedures; S.Safety Icons; S.Choose Appropriate Equipment - Advanced | Covered | 98 | 7 | 66 | 3 | Covered by 7 topics (98 questions, 7 materials, 66 cards, 3 videos). |
| d. Apply modeling and the mathematical concepts of statistics and probability to the analysis and interpretation of data, including analysis of errors and their origins. | S.Precision vs Accuracy; S.Error In Measurements; S.Significant Figures | Covered | 35 | 3 | 8 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (35 questions, 3 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Demonstrate the ability to analyze scientific data and information and draw appropriate and logical conclusions. | S.Proper Data Analysis; S.Trend Analysis of Scatterplots | Covered | 12 | 2 | 8 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (12 questions, 2 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos). |
| f. Use mathematics (e.g., dimensional analysis, statistics, proportional thinking) and computational thinking to represent and solve scientific problems and to assess scientific simulations. | M.Exponential and Scientific Notation; M.Converting Units - Proportional Reasoning; S.Prepping for Lab - Mixing Concentrations; S.Molarity; S.Metric System; S.Converting Units - Dimensional Analysis | Covered | 64 | 6 | 10 | 3 | Covered by 6 topics (64 questions, 6 materials, 10 cards, 3 videos). |
| g. Demonstrate the ability to construct and analyze scientific explanations. | S.Prediction, Explanation, Theory, Fact | Covered | 7 | 1 | 5 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (7 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 1 videos). |
| h. Demonstrate the ability to evaluate scientific arguments in terms of their supporting evidence and reasoning. | S.Repeatability; S.Prediction, Explanation, Theory, Fact | Covered | 20 | 2 | 6 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (20 questions, 2 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos). |
| i. Demonstrate knowledge of the ability to obtain, evaluate, interpret, and communicate scientific information (e.g., determining central ideas, integrating information from multiple sources, evaluating the validity of claims, using multiple formats to communicate scientific results). | S.Background Research; S.Best Chart for the Data; S.Read Scientific Publication | Covered | 20 | 3 | 11 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (20 questions, 3 materials, 11 cards, 0 videos). |
SMR I.2 · Understand engineering practices, design, and applications.62 questions · 4 materials · 7 cards · 0 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Apply knowledge of engineering practices to define problems, determine specifications of designed systems, and identify constraints. | S.Engineering Design Process | Covered | 29 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (29 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Evaluate design solutions in terms of their scientific and engineering constraints and the environmental, social, and cultural impacts of these solutions. | S.Engineering Design Process | Covered | 29 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (29 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Apply knowledge of the roles of models (e.g., mathematical, physical, computer simulations) in the engineering design process. | S.Engineering Design Process | Covered | 29 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (29 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of the process used to optimize a design solution (e.g., prioritizing criteria, refining a design due to test results). | S.Engineering Design Process | Covered | 29 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (29 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Apply knowledge of the interdependence of science, engineering, and technology (e.g., in agriculture, health care, and communications). | S.Interdisciplinary Connections | Covered | 14 | 1 | 3 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (14 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos). |
| f. Demonstrate knowledge of the influence of engineering, technology, and science on society and the natural world (e.g., in land use, transportation, and energy production). | S.Careers in Science; S.Ethics | Covered | 19 | 2 | 0 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (19 questions, 2 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos). |
SMR I.3 · Understand crosscutting concepts among the sciences and engineering.29 questions · 8 materials · 18 cards · 0 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Apply knowledge of patterns characteristic of natural phenomena and engineered systems. | S.Engineering - Patterns; S.Trend Analysis in Data - Natural Systems | Covered | 6 | 2 | 6 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (6 questions, 2 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Analyze cause-and-effect relationships and their mechanisms in natural phenomena and engineered systems. | S.Engineering - Cause and Effect | Partially covered | 0 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (0 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| c. Apply knowledge of the concepts of scale, proportion, and quantity to describe and compare natural and engineered systems. | S.Engineering - Measurement | Partially covered | 6 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| d. Apply knowledge of how systems are defined and studied and of how system models are used to make predictions. | S.Engineering - Systems | Partially covered | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (0 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| e. Apply knowledge of the flow, cycling, and conservation of energy and matter to analyze natural and engineered systems. | S.Engineering - Energy and Matter | Partially covered | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (0 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| f. Analyze the relationship between structure and function in natural and engineered systems. | S.Engineering - Structure and Function | Covered | 11 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (11 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos). |
| g. Analyze the factors contributing to stability and change in systems (e.g., static and dynamic equilibrium, feedback) and the rates at which systems change. | S.Engineering - Stability and Change | Partially covered | 6 | 1 | 3 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
Physical Sciences (Domain II)Partially covered
SMR II.1 · Understand structure and properties of matter.201 questions · 21 materials · 116 cards · 4 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Analyze the basic substructure of an atom (i.e., protons, neutrons, and electrons). | S.Parts of an Atom | Covered | 11 | 1 | 7 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (11 questions, 1 materials, 7 cards, 1 videos). |
| b. Differentiate between atoms and their isotopes, ions, molecules, elements, and compounds. | S.Atoms and Molecules; S.Elements and Compounds; S.Ions | Covered | 23 | 3 | 10 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (23 questions, 3 materials, 10 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Apply knowledge of the development and organization of the periodic table and predict the properties of elements on the basis of their positions in the periodic table. | S.Periodic Table; S.Periodic Table - History of Development; S.Electron Arrangements; S.Periodic Table and Physical Properties; S.Periodic Table and Chemical Properties | Covered | 53 | 5 | 30 | 0 | Covered by 5 topics (53 questions, 5 materials, 30 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of nuclear forces that hold nuclei together and are responsible for nuclear processes (e.g., fission, fusion) and radioactivity (e.g., alpha, beta, and gamma decay). | S.Fission; S.Fusion | Partially covered | 6 | 2 | 2 | 0 | Partial coverage by 2 topics (6 questions, 2 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| e. Demonstrate knowledge of the characteristics of the different states of matter. | S.States of Matter; S.Plasma | Covered | 17 | 2 | 5 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (17 questions, 2 materials, 5 cards, 1 videos). |
| f. Apply knowledge of physical changes of matter and physical properties of matter. | S.Phase Changes; S.Phase Diagrams; S.Physical Properties | Covered | 36 | 3 | 33 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (36 questions, 3 materials, 33 cards, 1 videos). |
| g. Demonstrate knowledge of the physical and chemical characteristics, including pH, of acids, bases, and neutral solutions. | S.Molecular Structure of Materials Affecting Physical Properties; S.Chemical Properties; S.Applications of Physical and Chemical Properties; S.pH | Covered | 41 | 4 | 41 | 1 | Covered by 4 topics (41 questions, 4 materials, 41 cards, 1 videos). |
| h. Apply knowledge of the physical and chemical properties of water. | S.Properties of Water | Covered | 14 | 1 | 6 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (14 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos). |
SMR II.2 · Understand chemical reactions and biochemistry.72 questions · 7 materials · 26 cards · 0 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Recognize that chemical reactions can be understood in terms of the collisions between ions, atoms, or molecules and the rearrangement of particles. | S.Types of Reactions | Covered | 10 | 1 | 9 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Apply knowledge of the principles of conservation of matter to chemical reactions, including balancing chemical equations. | S.Balancing Chemical Reactions; S.Stoichiometry | Covered | 24 | 2 | 3 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (24 questions, 2 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Describe the effect of temperature, pressure, and concentration on chemical equilibrium (Le Chatelier's principle) and reaction rate. | S.Reaction Rates; S.Equilibrium | Covered | 12 | 2 | 7 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (12 questions, 2 materials, 7 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Analyze chemical bonding with respect to an element's position in the periodic table. | S.Periodic Table and Chemical Properties | Covered | 21 | 1 | 3 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (21 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Demonstrate knowledge of the central role of carbon in the chemistry of living systems. | S.Carbon-Based Life | Partially covered | 5 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (5 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
SMR II.3 · Understand motion and stability: forces and interactions.133 questions · 12 materials · 35 cards · 3 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Apply knowledge of Newton's laws of motion and law of universal gravitation and recognize the relationship between these laws and the laws of conservation of energy and momentum. | S.Momentum; S.Newton's First Law; S.Newton's Second Law; S.Newton's Third Law | Covered | 28 | 4 | 6 | 0 | Covered by 4 topics (28 questions, 4 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Demonstrate knowledge of the definition of pressure and how pressure relates to fluid flow and buoyancy, including describing everyday phenomena (e.g., the functioning of heart valves, atmospheric pressure). | S.Physical Properties of Fluids; S.Fluids - Pressure, Density, and Buoyancy | Covered | 9 | 2 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (9 questions, 2 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Identify the separate forces that act on a system (e.g., gravity, tension/compression, normal force, friction), describe the net force on the system, and describe the effect on the stability of the system. | S.Gravity; S.Force and Newton's Laws | Covered | 42 | 2 | 13 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (42 questions, 2 materials, 13 cards, 1 videos). |
| d. Analyze displacement, motion, and forces using models (e.g., vector, graphic representation, equations). | S.Motion Terms; S.Motion Graphs; S.Linear Motion Calculations; S.Force Vectors and Diagrams; S.Fluids - Pressure, Density, and Buoyancy | Covered | 60 | 5 | 14 | 2 | Covered by 5 topics (60 questions, 5 materials, 14 cards, 2 videos). |
| e. Identify fundamental forces, including gravity, nuclear forces, and electromagnetic forces (magnetic and electric), and recognize their roles in nature, such as the role of gravity in maintaining the structure of the universe. | S.Force and Newton's Laws | Covered | 29 | 1 | 12 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (29 questions, 1 materials, 12 cards, 1 videos). |
SMR II.4 · Understand waves and their applications in technologies for information transfer.88 questions · 12 materials · 58 cards · 0 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Compare the characteristics of mechanical and electromagnetic waves (e.g., transverse/longitudinal, travel through various media, relative speed). | S.Properties of Waves | Covered | 18 | 1 | 13 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (18 questions, 1 materials, 13 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Demonstrate knowledge of the relationship between wave frequency, wavelength, and amplitude and energy. | S.Properties of Waves | Covered | 18 | 1 | 13 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (18 questions, 1 materials, 13 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Demonstrate knowledge of resonance and of the reflection, refraction, and transmission of waves. | S.Reflection and Refraction; S.Refraction Indexes | Covered | 18 | 2 | 5 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (18 questions, 2 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Apply knowledge of electromagnetic radiation, including analyzing evidence that supports the wave and particle models that explain the properties of electromagnetic radiation. | S.Electromagnetic Spectrum; S.Dual Nature of Light; S.Light Spectra | Covered | 20 | 3 | 14 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (20 questions, 3 materials, 14 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Evaluate evidence that indicates that certain wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation may affect living cells. | S.Electromagnetic Spectrum | Covered | 9 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (9 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos). |
| f. Demonstrate knowledge of how lenses are used in simple optical systems, including the camera, telescope, microscope, and eye. | S.Lenses; S.Applications of Waves - Optical Technologies; S.Applications of Waves - Medical Technologies | Covered | 13 | 3 | 13 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (13 questions, 3 materials, 13 cards, 0 videos). |
| g. Compare and contrast the transmission, reflection, and absorption of light in matter. | S.Absorption and Transmission; S.Interference, scattering, and polarization | Covered | 14 | 2 | 15 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (14 questions, 2 materials, 15 cards, 0 videos). |
| h. Demonstrate knowledge of how energy and information are transferred by waves without mass transfer, including recognizing technology that employ this phenomenon. | S.Fiber Optics; S.Interference, scattering, and polarization | Covered | 12 | 2 | 13 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (12 questions, 2 materials, 13 cards, 0 videos). |
SMR II.5 · Understand energy.112 questions · 10 materials · 46 cards · 3 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of kinetic and potential energy. | S.Types of Energy | Covered | 29 | 1 | 8 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (29 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 1 videos). |
| b. Demonstrate knowledge of the ways in which energy manifests itself at the macroscopic level (e.g., motion, sound, light, thermal energy). | S.Heat vs Temperature | Covered | 11 | 1 | 3 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (11 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Demonstrate knowledge of the principle of conservation of energy, including analyzing energy transfers. | S.Conservation of Energy Calculations; S.Applications of Conservation of Energy | Covered | 16 | 2 | 12 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (16 questions, 2 materials, 12 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of how the transfer of energy as heat is related to changes in temperature and interpret the direction of heat flow in a system. | S.Laws of Thermodynamics; S.Entropy | Covered | 14 | 2 | 9 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (14 questions, 2 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Apply knowledge of heat transfer by conduction, convection, and radiation, including analyzing examples of each mode of heat transfer. | S.Conduction, Convection, and Radiation | Covered | 17 | 1 | 4 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (17 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 1 videos). |
| f. Analyze how chemical energy in fuel is transformed to heat. | S.Types of Energy Transfers By Humans; S.Types of Energy Transfers in Ecology | Covered | 13 | 2 | 15 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (13 questions, 2 materials, 15 cards, 0 videos). |
| g. Demonstrate knowledge of the energy changes that accompany changes in states of matter. | S.Endothermic vs Exothermic | Covered | 12 | 1 | 3 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (12 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 1 videos). |
SMR II.6 · Understand electricity and magnetism.95 questions · 13 materials · 47 cards · 0 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of electrostatic and magnetostatic phenomena, including evaluating examples of each type of phenomenon. | S.Electricity and Magnetism; S.Electrostatic Examples; S.Magnetic Materials | Covered | 28 | 3 | 16 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (28 questions, 3 materials, 16 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Predict charges or poles on the basis of attraction/repulsion observations. | S.Electricity and Magnetism | Covered | 20 | 1 | 12 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 12 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Relate electric currents to magnetic fields and describe the application of these relationships, such as in electromagnets, electric current generators, motors, and transformers. | S.Currents - DC vs AC; S.Electromagnets; S.Types of Voltage Sources; S.Transformers | Covered | 23 | 4 | 17 | 0 | Covered by 4 topics (23 questions, 4 materials, 17 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of how energy is stored and can change in electric and magnetic fields. | S.Capacitance | Partially covered | 2 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (2 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| e. Interpret simple series and parallel circuits. | S.Circuits; S.Series and Parallel | Covered | 26 | 2 | 11 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (26 questions, 2 materials, 11 cards, 0 videos). |
| f. Demonstrate knowledge of the definitions of power, voltage differences, current, and resistance and calculate their values in simple circuits. | S.Ohms law; S.Current and Coulombs; S.Power | Covered | 16 | 3 | 7 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (16 questions, 3 materials, 7 cards, 0 videos). |
Life Sciences (Domain III)Partially covered
SMR III.1 · Understand the structure and function of cells.97 questions · 10 materials · 50 cards · 3 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate understanding that a small subset of elements (C, H, O, N, P, S) makes up most of the chemical compounds in living organisms by combining in many ways. | S.Elements Used in Life | Partially covered | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (5 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| b. Recognize and differentiate the structure and function of molecules in living organisms, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. | S.Macromolecules - Form and Function | Covered | 8 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (8 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Demonstrate knowledge of evidence that living things are made of cells. | S.Requirements of Life; S.Cell Theory | Covered | 14 | 2 | 7 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (14 questions, 2 materials, 7 cards, 1 videos). |
| d. Analyze the similarities and differences among prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and viruses. | S.Eukaryotic vs Prokaryotic; S.Viruses | Covered | 19 | 2 | 12 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (19 questions, 2 materials, 12 cards, 1 videos). |
| e. Demonstrate knowledge of organelles and their structures and functions in the cell and how differences in the structure of cells are related to cell function. | S.Parts of the Cell; S.Types of Cells | Covered | 35 | 2 | 22 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (35 questions, 2 materials, 22 cards, 1 videos). |
| f. Demonstrate knowledge of the process and significance of protein synthesis. | S.Transcription; S.Translation | Covered | 16 | 2 | 10 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (16 questions, 2 materials, 10 cards, 0 videos). |
SMR III.2 · Understand growth, development, and energy flow in organisms.167 questions · 15 materials · 83 cards · 4 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of the importance of mitosis and meiosis as processes of cellular and organismal reproduction. | S.Mitosis | Covered | 13 | 1 | 16 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (13 questions, 1 materials, 16 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Compare single-celled and multicellular organisms, including the role of cell differentiation in the development of multicellular organisms. | S.Stem Cells and Differentiation | Covered | 10 | 1 | 8 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Recognize the hierarchical levels of organization (e.g., cells, tissues, organs, systems, organisms) in plants and animals. | S.Cells, Tissues, Organs, Organ Systems | Covered | 11 | 1 | 6 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (11 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of the major anatomical structures and life processes (e.g., reproduction, photosynthesis, cellular respiration, transpiration) of various plant groups. | S.Photosynthesis; S.Photosynthesis Reactions; S.Plant Systems Basics; S.Plant Systems - Cross Sections; S.Vascular vs Nonvascular Plants; S.Types of Plants; S.Plant Transportation; S.Plant Reproduction | Covered | 84 | 8 | 44 | 3 | Covered by 8 topics (84 questions, 8 materials, 44 cards, 3 videos). |
| e. Demonstrate knowledge of feedback mechanisms responsible for maintaining homeostasis in animals, including humans, and plants, including the anatomical structures and systems involved in regulating internal conditions. | S.Structures and Processes of Homeostasis; S.Structures and Processes of Homeostasis - Advanced | Covered | 28 | 2 | 2 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (28 questions, 2 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos). |
| f. Analyze the processes of cellular respiration (anaerobic and aerobic). | S.Respiration; S.Respiration - Aerobic vs Anaerobic | Covered | 21 | 2 | 10 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (21 questions, 2 materials, 10 cards, 0 videos). |
| g. Demonstrate knowledge of the conversion, flow, and storage of energy in the cell. | S.Respiration | Covered | 11 | 1 | 8 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (11 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos). |
SMR III.3 · Understand ecosystems: interactions, energy, and dynamics.126 questions · 10 materials · 42 cards · 6 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of the abiotic and biotic factors in an ecosystem and their relationship to the growth of individual organisms. | S.Growth Factors | Covered | 12 | 1 | 6 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (12 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos). |
| b. Demonstrate knowledge of the interrelationships within and among ecosystems and recognize factors that affect population types, size, and carrying capacity in ecosystems (e.g., availability of biotic and abiotic resources, predation, competition, disease). | S.Habitats and Niches; S.Types of Relationships; S.Growth Factors; S.Growth Factors - Advanced | Covered | 45 | 4 | 17 | 2 | Covered by 4 topics (45 questions, 4 materials, 17 cards, 2 videos). |
| c. Apply knowledge of energy flow, nutrient cycling, and matter transfer in ecosystems (e.g., food webs, biogeochemical cycles), including recognizing the roles played by photosynthesis and aerobic and anaerobic respiration. | S.Carbon Cycle; S.Nitrogen Cycle; S.Roles In Food Chain; S.Food Webs | Covered | 68 | 4 | 23 | 4 | Covered by 4 topics (68 questions, 4 materials, 23 cards, 4 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of possible solutions for minimizing human impact on ecosystem resources and biodiversity. | S.Effect of Biodiversity Changes; S.Human Impact on Ecosystems | Covered | 13 | 2 | 2 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (13 questions, 2 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos). |
SMR III.4 · Understand heredity: inheritance and variation of traits.137 questions · 15 materials · 70 cards · 2 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of the roles of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) molecules in cells (e.g., storing genetic information, coding for proteins, regulatory functions, structural functions). | S.Roles of DNA | Partially covered | 2 | 1 | 3 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (2 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| b. Apply knowledge of the structure of DNA and the process of DNA replication. | S.Structure of DNA and RNA; S.DNA Replication | Covered | 21 | 2 | 11 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (21 questions, 2 materials, 11 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Apply knowledge of how genetic variation may be the result of errors that occur during DNA replication or mutations caused by environmental factors and explain their causes and effects. | S.Mutations; S.Types of Mutations - Sequence; S.Types of Mutations - Environmental | Covered | 24 | 3 | 21 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (24 questions, 3 materials, 21 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of how the coding of DNA controls the expression of traits by genes and influences essential life functions (e.g., how DNA determines protein structure and other heritable genetic variations). | S.Relationship Between Genes and Traits | Partially covered | 2 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (2 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| e. Demonstrate knowledge of the relationship between genes and their interaction with the environment in terms of organisms' development and functions. | S.Epigenetics | Partially covered | 3 | 1 | 5 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (3 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| f. Compare and contrast sexual and asexual reproduction. | S.Asexual Reproduction; S.Sexual Reproduction | Covered | 23 | 2 | 10 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (23 questions, 2 materials, 10 cards, 0 videos). |
| g. Apply knowledge of genotypes and phenotypes and the inheritance of traits that are determined by one or more genes (e.g., dominant, recessive, and sex-linked alleles; incomplete dominance). | S.Dominant vs Recessive; S.Non-Mendelian Inheritance; S.Pedigrees | Covered | 33 | 3 | 17 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (33 questions, 3 materials, 17 cards, 1 videos). |
| h. Solve problems from representations of monohybrid and dihybrid crosses. | S.Punnett Squares; S.Punnett Squares - Dihybrid Crosses | Covered | 29 | 2 | 8 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (29 questions, 2 materials, 8 cards, 1 videos). |
SMR III.5 · Understand biological evolution: unity and diversity.61 questions · 9 materials · 27 cards · 1 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Apply knowledge of anatomical, embryological, and genetic evidence of biological evolution and common ancestry and interpret branching diagrams (cladograms). | S.Macroevolution Evidence; S.Macroevolution Evidence - Advanced; S.Cladograms | Covered | 19 | 3 | 16 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (19 questions, 3 materials, 16 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Demonstrate knowledge of the theory of natural selection, including how genetic variation and its expression leads to differences in characteristics among individuals in a population, adaptation, speciation, and extinction. | S.Natural Selection; S.Genetic Isolation and Speciation | Covered | 25 | 2 | 4 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (25 questions, 2 materials, 4 cards, 1 videos). |
| c. Demonstrate knowledge of major events that affected the evolution of life on Earth (e.g., climate changes, asteroid impacts). | S.Earth's History - Evolutionary History | Partially covered | 4 | 1 | 3 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (4 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of technologies that allow humans to influence the genetic traits of organisms. | S.Artificial Selection; S.Genetic Research; S.Genetic Research - Agriculture | Covered | 13 | 3 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (13 questions, 3 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
Earth and Space Sciences (Domain IV)Partially covered
SMR IV.1 · Understand Earth's place in the universe.223 questions · 24 materials · 215 cards · 2 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of the evidence for the Big Bang model (e.g., light spectra, motion of distant galaxies, spectra of primordial radiation). | S.Advanced Origin of Universe | Partially covered | 4 | 1 | 6 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (4 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| b. Demonstrate knowledge of how astronomical instruments are used to collect data and how astronomical units are used to describe distances. | S.Celestial Distance; S.Astronomy Models; S.Space Science Technology | Covered | 19 | 3 | 28 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (19 questions, 3 materials, 28 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Demonstrate knowledge of the factors that contribute to a star's color, size, and luminosity and how a star's light spectrum and brightness can be used to identify compositional elements, movements, and distance from Earth. | S.Star Characteristics; S.Star Life Cycle | Covered | 28 | 2 | 29 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (28 questions, 2 materials, 29 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of nuclear fusion in stars, including the relationship between a star's mass and stage of its lifetime and the elements produced. | S.The Sun; S.The Sun - Advanced; S.Star Life Cycle; S.Types of Energy Transfers in Space | Covered | 39 | 4 | 39 | 0 | Covered by 4 topics (39 questions, 4 materials, 39 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Demonstrate knowledge of the formation and structure of the solar system, its place in the Milky Way galaxy, and the characteristics of various objects in the solar system. | S.Components of the Solar System; S.Advanced Solar System Components; S.Properties of Celestial Bodies; S.Types of Galaxies | Covered | 35 | 4 | 63 | 0 | Covered by 4 topics (35 questions, 4 materials, 63 cards, 0 videos). |
| f. Recognize how evidence from the study of lunar rocks, asteroids, and meteorites provides information about Earth's formation and history. | S.Earth's History; S.Earth's History - Key Events; S.Origin of the Solar System | Covered | 24 | 3 | 32 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (24 questions, 3 materials, 32 cards, 0 videos). |
| g. Compare and contrast uniformitarianism and catastrophism. | S.Uniformitarianism | Partially covered | 5 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (5 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| h. Demonstrate knowledge of the regular and predictable patterns of movements of stars, planets, and the moon and their effects on Earth's systems (e.g., seasons, eclipses, tides). | S.Night/Day and Time Zones; S.Seasons; S.Tides; S.Lunar Cycle; S.Eclipses; S.Orbits of the Solar System | Covered | 85 | 6 | 41 | 2 | Covered by 6 topics (85 questions, 6 materials, 41 cards, 2 videos). |
| i. Apply knowledge of how Kepler's laws are used to predict the motion of orbiting objects. | S.Kepler's Laws of Orbit | Partially covered | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (2 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
SMR IV.2 · Understand Earth's materials and systems and surface processes.132 questions · 12 materials · 96 cards · 2 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Recognize various forms of evidence (e.g., seismic waves, iron meteorites, magnetic field data) that led to the current model of Earth's structure (i.e., hot but solid inner core, a liquid outer core, a solid mantle and crust). | S.Structures of Earth; S.Advanced Structures of Earth; S.Structures of Earth - Evidence | Covered | 23 | 3 | 13 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (23 questions, 3 materials, 13 cards, 1 videos). |
| b. Demonstrate knowledge of the dynamic processes of erosion, deposition, and transport, including evidence for connections between these processes and the formation of Earth's materials. | S.Constructive and Destructive Processes; S.Weathering and Erosion - Volcanic Islands and Glaciers | Covered | 41 | 2 | 26 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (41 questions, 2 materials, 26 cards, 1 videos). |
| c. Demonstrate knowledge of relative and absolute dating techniques, including how half- lives are used in radiometric dating and of how evidence from rock strata is used to establish the geologic timescale. | S.Stratigraphy; S.Earth's History - Physical Changes; S.Applications of Radioactivity | Covered | 24 | 3 | 13 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (24 questions, 3 materials, 13 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Recognize the factors that can alter the flow of energy into and out of Earth's systems (e.g., tectonic events, ocean circulation, volcanic activity, vegetation). | S.Volcanoes | Covered | 15 | 1 | 19 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (15 questions, 1 materials, 19 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Relate the abundance of liquid water on Earth's surface and water's physical and chemical properties to the dynamic processes shaping the planet's materials and surface. | S.Surface Water vs Groundwater; S.Water Cycle - Physical Processes Driving; S.Properties of Water | Covered | 29 | 3 | 27 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (29 questions, 3 materials, 27 cards, 0 videos). |
| f. Demonstrate knowledge of surficial processes that form geographic features of Earth's surface (e.g., mechanical, chemical, and biological weathering). | S.Constructive and Destructive Processes | Covered | 29 | 1 | 14 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (29 questions, 1 materials, 14 cards, 1 videos). |
SMR IV.3 · Understand plate tectonics and large-scale system interactions.59 questions · 4 materials · 23 cards · 0 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of the evidence for plate tectonics (e.g., the ages of crustal rocks, distribution of fossils and rocks, continental shapes) and relate plate movements to continental and ocean-floor features. | S.Tectonic Plate Theory; S.Formation of Fossils | Covered | 50 | 2 | 20 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (50 questions, 2 materials, 20 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Demonstrate knowledge of the thermal processes driving plate movement and relate density and buoyancy to plate tectonics. | S.Tectonic Plate Theory | Covered | 30 | 1 | 17 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (30 questions, 1 materials, 17 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Demonstrate knowledge of the differences between types of plate boundaries, causes of volcanoes, earthquakes, and how Earth's resources relate to tectonic processes. | S.Tectonics and Earthquake Patterns | Partially covered | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (5 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of the factors contributing to the extent of damage caused by an earthquake (e.g., epicenter, focal mechanism, distance, geologic substrate). | S.Advanced Earthquakes | Partially covered | 4 | 1 | 3 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (4 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
SMR IV.4 · Understand weather and climate.145 questions · 13 materials · 76 cards · 4 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of the water cycle and the interrelationships of surface and subsurface reservoirs. | S.Water Cycle | Covered | 20 | 1 | 9 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 9 cards, 1 videos). |
| b. Demonstrate knowledge of the causes of daily, seasonal, and climatic changes and analyze the uneven heating of Earth by the sun. | S.Weather vs Climate; S.Weather vs Climate - El Nino and Jet Stream; S.Uneven Heating of Earth; S.Effects of Land on Climate; S.Effects of Natural Phenomena on Climate | Covered | 38 | 5 | 19 | 2 | Covered by 5 topics (38 questions, 5 materials, 19 cards, 2 videos). |
| c. Analyze the effects of air movements on weather and interpret weather maps to predict weather patterns. | S.Predicting Severe Weather; S.Weather Charts | Covered | 18 | 2 | 23 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (18 questions, 2 materials, 23 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of the energy transfer processes of convection, conduction, and radiation in relation to the atmosphere/ocean and Earth's interior structure. | S.Composition and Layers of the Atmosphere; S.Air Masses and Ocean Currents; S.Global Winds | Covered | 39 | 3 | 22 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (39 questions, 3 materials, 22 cards, 1 videos). |
| e. Demonstrate knowledge of the mechanisms and the significance of the greenhouse effect on Earth, including the roles of the oceans and biosphere in absorbing greenhouse gases. | S.Global Warming | Covered | 21 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (21 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
| f. Demonstrate knowledge of human activities and their impact on global climate change. | S.Human Influences on Climate | Covered | 9 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (9 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
SMR IV.5 · Understand natural resources and natural hazards.52 questions · 6 materials · 29 cards · 1 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of renewable and nonrenewable energy resources (e.g., fossil fuels, nuclear fuels, solar, biomass). | S.Renewable vs Nonrenewable | Covered | 17 | 1 | 4 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (17 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 1 videos). |
| b. Demonstrate knowledge of Earth's materials as resources (e.g., rocks, minerals, soils, water) that have a global distribution affected by past and current geological processes. | S.Resource Extraction | Covered | 7 | 1 | 5 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (7 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Analyze extraction and recycling processes in relation to energy, cost, and demand. | S.Resource Extraction | Covered | 7 | 1 | 5 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (7 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of sustainable uses of resources with respect to utility, cost, and demand. | S.Decision Making; S.Green Energy Technology; S.Types of Power Sources | Covered | 20 | 3 | 10 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (20 questions, 3 materials, 10 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Demonstrate knowledge of the effects of natural hazards (e.g., earthquakes, landslides, floods) on natural and human-made habitats. | S.Earthquakes | Covered | 8 | 1 | 13 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (8 questions, 1 materials, 13 cards, 0 videos). |
| f. Demonstrate knowledge of how the availability of natural resources and the existence of natural hazards and other geologic events have influenced the development of human society. | None | Coverage gap identified | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | No matching topic found in the study guide. |
How 240 Creates The CSET Foundational Level General Science (215) Study Guide
Every 240 study guide starts with the official exam framework. From there, we organize lessons, practice, and study tools around the categories the exam uses to measure candidate knowledge.
Review the official exam framework
We begin with the standards, domains, competencies, objectives, or content categories published by the testing authority.
Map the tested categories
We map every major area the exam is designed to cover so the guide reflects the real structure of the test.
Build lessons around tested content
We create study materials to support the official blueprint, not broad filler content.
Cross-check practice against exam expectations
We review practice content against the framework and real exam patterns so preparation stays targeted.
Review and update as standards change
When official frameworks change, we review guides and update alignment as needed.
Reviewed by subject-matter experts and maintained to reflect current standards.
Why 240 Is Better Than Other Generic Study Guides
Not all study guides are built the same way. Here is what separates a test-aligned guide from a generic one — and why it matters when you are preparing for the CSET Foundational Level General Science.
Generic prep
- Covers broad subject areas without structure
- No clear connection to the official exam framework
- Practice questions may not reflect the real test format
- May not update when official standards change
- Can be helpful for quick, broad review
240 test-aligned CSET 215 prep
- Every lesson maps to an official domain or competency
- Built directly from the official exam framework
- Practice questions aligned to what the exam actually measures
- A clear study path by tested category
- Study smarter and enter test day more prepared
FAQs About the CSET Foundational Level General Science Study Guide
The questions teacher candidates ask us most often about the CSET Foundational Level General Science study guide.
Is 240 a good study guide for CSET Foundational Level General Science?
240 is a strong option because the guide is built around the official exam framework and shows detailed alignment by SMR and competency.
How closely does 240 align to the CSET 215 exam?
This guide is 92% aligned based on a competency-by-competency review of the official framework and the study resources included in the guide.
Does 240 cover every competency?
This page shows coverage transparently across covered, partially covered, and identified gaps so candidates can see exactly how the guide maps to the exam.
What does “partially covered” mean?
Partially covered means the guide addresses the core parts of a competency, but some depth or subtopics may still be limited.