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 FTCE Elementary Education K-6 Subtest 3: 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 FTCE Elementary Education K-6 Subtest 3: Science (603) 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 FTCE 603 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
5Domains
48Competencies reviewed
95%Test-aligned
43Covered
5Partially covered
0Gaps
- 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.
Knowledge of effective science instruction (Domain 1)Partially covered
231 questions · 20 materials · 94 cards · 5 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Analyze and apply developmentally appropriate researched-based strategies for teaching science practices. | S.Activities For Inquiry; S.Major Science Instructional Theories; S.How Young Children Learn - Science | Covered | 20 | 3 | 18 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (20 questions, 3 materials, 18 cards, 1 videos). |
| 2. Select and apply safe and effective instructional strategies to utilize manipulatives, models, scientific equipment, real-world examples, and print and digital representations to support and enhance science instruction. | S.Proper Handling - Chemicals; S.Safety Rules; S.Proper Tool Use | Covered | 38 | 3 | 12 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (38 questions, 3 materials, 12 cards, 1 videos). |
| 3. Identify and analyze strategies for formal and informal learning experiences to provide science curriculum that promotes students’ innate curiosity and active inquiry (e.g., hands-on experiences, active engagement in the natural world, student interaction). | S.Activities For Inquiry; S.Activities For Critical Thinking | Covered | 21 | 2 | 18 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (21 questions, 2 materials, 18 cards, 1 videos). |
| 4. Select and analyze collaborative strategies to help students explain concepts, to introduce and clarify formal science terms, and to identify misconceptions. | S.Misconceptions; S.Active Learning | Covered | 26 | 2 | 8 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (26 questions, 2 materials, 8 cards, 1 videos). |
| 5. Identify and apply appropriate reading strategies, mathematical practices, and science-content materials to enhance science instruction for learners at all levels. | S.Differentiation | Partially covered | 6 | 1 | 3 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| 6. Apply differentiated strategies in science instruction and assessments based on student needs. | S.Differentiation; S.Engagement; S.Inquiry; S.Assessment and Instruction - Science; S.Rubrics in Assessment; S.Best Practices to Teach Science - Special Education | Covered | 93 | 6 | 34 | 2 | Covered by 6 topics (93 questions, 6 materials, 34 cards, 2 videos). |
| 7. Identify and apply ways to organize and manage a classroom for safe, effective science teaching that reflect state safety procedures and restrictions (e.g., procedures, equipment, disposal of chemicals, classroom layout, use of living organisms). | S.Safety Rules; S.Proper Handling - Chemicals; S.Proper Tool Use; S.Choose Appropriate Equipment | Covered | 49 | 4 | 34 | 1 | Covered by 4 topics (49 questions, 4 materials, 34 cards, 1 videos). |
| 8. Select and apply appropriate technology, science tools and measurement units for students’ use in data collection and the pursuit of science. | S.Best Chart for the Data; S.Proper Data Analysis; S.Various Tools | Covered | 30 | 3 | 9 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (30 questions, 3 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos). |
| 9. Select and analyze developmentally appropriate diagnostic, formative and summative assessments to evaluate prior knowledge, guide instruction, and evaluate student achievement. | S.Assessment and Instruction - Science; S.Rubrics in Assessment | Covered | 49 | 2 | 8 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (49 questions, 2 materials, 8 cards, 1 videos). |
| 10. Choose scientifically and professionally responsible content and activities that are socially and culturally sensitive. | S.Diversity | Partially covered | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (5 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
Knowledge of the nature of science (Domain 2)Partially covered
343 questions · 24 materials · 124 cards · 7 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Analyze the dynamic nature of science models, laws, mechanisms, and theories that explain natural phenomena (e.g., durability, tentativeness, replication, reliance on evidence). | S.Evidence, Models, and Explanation; S.Models; S.Repeatability; S.Prediction, Explanation, Theory, Fact | Covered | 45 | 4 | 11 | 1 | Covered by 4 topics (45 questions, 4 materials, 11 cards, 1 videos). |
| 2. Identify and apply science and engineering practices through integrated process skills (e.g., observing, classifying, predicting, hypothesizing, designing and carrying out investigations, developing and using models, constructing and communicating explanations). | S.Scientific Method | Covered | 23 | 1 | 8 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (23 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 1 videos). |
| 3. Differentiate between the characteristics of experiments (e.g., multiple trials, control groups, variables) and other types of scientific investigations (e.g., observations, surveys). | S.Experimental Investigations; S.Non-Experimental Investigations | Covered | 32 | 2 | 11 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (32 questions, 2 materials, 11 cards, 1 videos). |
| 4. Identify and analyze attitudes and dispositions underlying scientific thinking (e.g., curiosity, openness to new ideas, appropriate skepticism, cooperation). | S.Critical Thinking | Partially covered | 6 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| 5. Identify and select appropriate tools, including digital technologies, and units of measurement for various science tasks. | S.Integrating Digital Technology; S.Choosing Appropriate SI Units | Covered | 20 | 2 | 8 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (20 questions, 2 materials, 8 cards, 1 videos). |
| 6. Evaluate and interpret pictorial representations, charts, tables, and graphs of authentic data from scientific investigations to make predictions, construct explanations, and support conclusions. | S.Best Chart for the Data; S.Proper Data Analysis; S.Trend Analysis in Data; M.Choosing a Graph or Plot; M.Graphs and Plots | Covered | 73 | 4 | 19 | 2 | Covered by 5 topics (73 questions, 4 materials, 19 cards, 2 videos). |
| 7. Identify and analyze ways in which science is an interdisciplinary process and interconnected to STEM disciplines (i.e., science, technology, engineering, mathematics). | S.Interdisciplinary Connections; S.Careers in Science | Covered | 23 | 2 | 3 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (23 questions, 2 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos). |
| 8. Analyze the interactions of science and technology with society including cultural, ethical, economic, political, and global factors. | S.Ethics; S.Decision Making; S.Healthy and Unhealthy Lifestyles; S.Human Populations Impact the Earth; S.Renewable vs Nonrenewable; S.Key History of Science; S.Human Influences on Climate; S.Global Warming | Covered | 121 | 8 | 70 | 1 | Covered by 8 topics (121 questions, 8 materials, 70 cards, 1 videos). |
Knowledge of physical sciences (Domain 3)Covered
345 questions · 26 materials · 151 cards · 8 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Identify and differentiate among the physical properties of matter (e.g., mass, volume, texture, hardness, freezing point). | S.Physical Properties | Covered | 10 | 1 | 20 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 20 cards, 0 videos). |
| 2. Identify and differentiate between physical and chemical changes (e.g., tearing, burning, rusting). | S.Phase Changes; S.Chemical vs Physical Changes | Covered | 38 | 2 | 11 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (38 questions, 2 materials, 11 cards, 2 videos). |
| 3. Compare the properties of matter during phase changes through the addition and/or removal of energy (e.g., boiling, condensation, evaporation). | S.Phase Changes | Covered | 20 | 1 | 7 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 7 cards, 1 videos). |
| 4. Differentiate between the properties of homogeneous mixtures (i.e., solutions) and heterogeneous mixtures. | S.Mixtures and Solutions | Covered | 14 | 1 | 7 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (14 questions, 1 materials, 7 cards, 1 videos). |
| 5. Identify examples of and relationships among atoms, elements, molecules, and compounds. | S.Parts of an Atom; S.Atoms and Molecules; S.Elements and Compounds | Covered | 28 | 3 | 12 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (28 questions, 3 materials, 12 cards, 1 videos). |
| 6. Identify and compare potential and kinetic energy. | S.Types of Energy | Covered | 29 | 1 | 8 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (29 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 1 videos). |
| 7. Differentiate among forms of energy, transformations of energy, and their real-world applications (e.g., chemical, electrical, mechanical, heat, light, sound). | S.Properties of Waves; S.Sound; S.Light; S.Types of Energy Transfers in Ecology; S.Types of Energy Transfers in Space; S.Types of Energy Transfers By Humans; S.Doppler Effect | Covered | 85 | 7 | 44 | 0 | Covered by 7 topics (85 questions, 7 materials, 44 cards, 0 videos). |
| 8. Distinguish among temperature, heat, and forms of heat transfer (e.g., conduction, convection, radiation). | S.Heat vs Temperature | Covered | 11 | 1 | 3 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (11 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos). |
| 9. Analyze the functionality of an electrical circuit based on its conductors, insulators, and components. | S.Electrical Conductor vs Insulator; S.Circuits; S.Electromagnetic Forces; S.Series and Parallel; S.Electricity and Magnetism | Covered | 58 | 5 | 27 | 1 | Covered by 5 topics (58 questions, 5 materials, 27 cards, 1 videos). |
| 10. Identify and apply the characteristics of contact forces (e.g., push, pull, friction), at-a-distance forces (e.g., magnetic, gravitational, electrostatic), and their effects on matter (e.g., motion, speed). | S.Motion Terms; S.Gravity; S.Force and Newton's Laws; S.Magnetic Materials; S.Magnetic Forces and Fields | Covered | 72 | 5 | 27 | 2 | Covered by 5 topics (72 questions, 5 materials, 27 cards, 2 videos). |
Knowledge of Earth and space (Domain 4)Covered
341 questions · 25 materials · 251 cards · 9 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Identify characteristics of geologic formations (e.g., volcanoes, canyons, mountains) and the mechanisms by which they are changed (e.g., physical and chemical weathering, erosion, deposition). | S.Structures of Earth; S.Constructive and Destructive Processes; S.Florida Geology; S.Weathering and Erosion - Volcanic Islands and Glaciers | Covered | 59 | 4 | 34 | 2 | Covered by 4 topics (59 questions, 4 materials, 34 cards, 2 videos). |
| 2. Identify and distinguish among major groups and properties of rocks and minerals and the processes of their formations. | S.Properties of Rocks and Minerals | Covered | 26 | 1 | 17 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (26 questions, 1 materials, 17 cards, 0 videos). |
| 3. Identify and analyze the characteristics of soil, its components and profile, and the process of soil formation. | S.Soil; S.Types of Soil | Covered | 8 | 2 | 12 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (8 questions, 2 materials, 12 cards, 0 videos). |
| 4. Identify and analyze processes by which energy from the Sun is transferred (e.g., radiation, conduction, convection) through Earth’s systems (e.g., biosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, atmosphere, cryosphere). | S.Uneven Heating of Earth; S.Conduction, Convection, and Radiation | Covered | 23 | 2 | 6 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (23 questions, 2 materials, 6 cards, 2 videos). |
| 5. Identify and analyze the causes and effects of atmospheric processes and conditions (e.g., water cycle, weather, climate). | S.Water Cycle; S.Air Masses and Ocean Currents; S.Effects of Atmosphere on Life; S.Composition and Layers of the Atmosphere; S.Surface Water vs Groundwater; S.Clouds; S.Weather Charts | Covered | 90 | 7 | 61 | 2 | Covered by 7 topics (90 questions, 7 materials, 61 cards, 2 videos). |
| 6. Identify and analyze various conservation methods and their effectiveness in relation to renewable and nonrenewable natural resources. | S.Renewable vs Nonrenewable | Covered | 17 | 1 | 4 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (17 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 1 videos). |
| 7. Analyze the Sun-Earth-Moon system in order to explain repeated patterns such as day and night, phases of the Moon, tides, and seasons. | S.Night/Day and Time Zones; S.Seasons; S.Tides; S.Lunar Cycle; S.Eclipses | Covered | 80 | 5 | 39 | 2 | Covered by 5 topics (80 questions, 5 materials, 39 cards, 2 videos). |
| 8. Compare and differentiate the composition and various relationships among the objects of our Solar System (e.g., Sun, planets, moons, asteroids, comets). | S.Components of the Solar System | Covered | 21 | 1 | 30 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (21 questions, 1 materials, 30 cards, 0 videos). |
| 9. Identify major events in the history of space exploration and their effects on society. | S.Key History of Space Science; S.Impact of Space Science Technology | Covered | 17 | 2 | 53 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (17 questions, 2 materials, 53 cards, 0 videos). |
Knowledge of life science (Domain 5)Partially covered
339 questions · 28 materials · 153 cards · 15 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Identify and compare the characteristics of living and nonliving things. | S.Requirements of Life | Covered | 10 | 1 | 5 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 1 videos). |
| 2. Analyze the cell theory as it relates to the functional and structural hierarchy of all living things. | S.Cell Theory | Partially covered | 4 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (4 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| 3. Identify and compare the structures and functions of plant and animal cells. | S.Parts of the Cell; S.Macromolecules | Covered | 40 | 2 | 21 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (40 questions, 2 materials, 21 cards, 2 videos). |
| 4. Classify living things into major groups (i.e., Linnaean system) and compare according to characteristics (e.g., physical features, behaviors, development). | S.Major Groups of Eukaryotic Life; S.Eukaryotic vs Prokaryotic | Covered | 44 | 2 | 25 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (44 questions, 2 materials, 25 cards, 1 videos). |
| 5. Compare and contrast the structures, functions, and interactions of human and other animal organ systems (e.g., respiration, reproduction, digestion). | S.Human Body Systems | Covered | 25 | 1 | 11 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (25 questions, 1 materials, 11 cards, 1 videos). |
| 6. Distinguish among infectious agents (e.g., viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites), their transmission, and their effects on the human body. | S.Infectious Agents | Covered | 12 | 1 | 6 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (12 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos). |
| 7. Identify and analyze the processes of heredity and natural selection and the scientific theory of evolution. | S.Structure of DNA and RNA; S.Dominant vs Recessive; S.Adaptations; S.Populations Change (Not Individuals); S.Natural Selection | Covered | 65 | 5 | 20 | 3 | Covered by 5 topics (65 questions, 5 materials, 20 cards, 3 videos). |
| 8. Analyze the interdependence of living things with each other and with their environment (e.g., food webs, ecosystems, pollution). | S.Ecological Organization; S.Food Webs; S.Roles In Food Chain; S.Competition; S.Environment as a Pressure; S.Human Impact on Ecosystems; S.Wildlife Impact on Ecosystems; S.Human Impact on Ecosystems - Florida | Covered | 79 | 8 | 34 | 4 | Covered by 8 topics (79 questions, 8 materials, 34 cards, 4 videos). |
| 9. Identify and analyze plant structures and the processes of photosynthesis, transpiration, and reproduction (i.e., sexual, asexual). | S.Photosynthesis; S.Plant Systems Basics; S.Plant Reproduction | Covered | 40 | 3 | 27 | 2 | Covered by 3 topics (40 questions, 3 materials, 27 cards, 2 videos). |
| 10. Predict the responses of plants to various stimuli (e.g., heat, light, gravity). | S.Plant Stimuli Responses | Partially covered | 2 | 1 | 3 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (2 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| 11. Identify and compare the life cycles and predictable ways plants and animals change as they grow, develop, and age. | S.Growth and Development; S.Plant Growth; S.Metamorphosis | Covered | 18 | 3 | 7 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (18 questions, 3 materials, 7 cards, 1 videos). |
How 240 Creates The FTCE Elementary Education K-6 Subtest 3: Science (603) 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 FTCE Elementary Education K-6 Subtest 3: 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 FTCE 603 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 FTCE Elementary Education K-6 Subtest 3: Science Study Guide
The questions teacher candidates ask us most often about the FTCE Elementary Education K-6 Subtest 3: Science study guide.
Is 240 a good study guide for FTCE Elementary Education K-6 Subtest 3: 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 FTCE 603 exam?
This guide is 95% 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.