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 GACE Middle Grades Science 4-8 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 GACE Middle Grades Science 4-8 (705) 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 GACE 705 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
3Domains
58Competencies reviewed
97%Test-aligned
55Covered
3Partially 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.
Physical Science (Domain 105)Partially covered
SMR 105.0001 · Demonstrate knowledge of the properties and characteristics of matter.85 questions · 7 materials · 53 cards · 2 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of the physical and chemical properties of matter (e.g., reactivity, density, melting point, combustibility). | S.Physical Properties; S.Chemical Properties | Covered | 19 | 2 | 35 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (19 questions, 2 materials, 35 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Demonstrate knowledge of the organization of the periodic table and its relationship to the structure and behavior of elements. | S.Periodic Table Arrangement; S.Periodic Table and Physical Properties; S.Periodic Table and Chemical Properties | Covered | 42 | 3 | 14 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (42 questions, 3 materials, 14 cards, 1 videos). |
| c. Apply knowledge of the characteristics of elements, compounds, and mixtures, including solutions, suspensions, and colloids. | S.Elements and Compounds; S.Mixtures and Solutions | Covered | 24 | 2 | 10 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (24 questions, 2 materials, 10 cards, 1 videos). |
SMR 105.0002 · Apply knowledge of physical and chemical changes in matter.118 questions · 11 materials · 40 cards · 3 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of the conservation of matter in chemical reactions and in balancing chemical equations. | S.Conservation of Matter and Energy | Covered | 12 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (12 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Analyze physical and chemical changes. | S.Chemical vs Physical Changes | Covered | 18 | 1 | 4 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (18 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 1 videos). |
| c. Apply knowledge of chemical formulas and chemical equations (e.g., products, reactants, balanced equations). | S.Chemical Formulas; S.Chemical Equations; S.Balancing Chemical Reactions | Covered | 30 | 3 | 8 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (30 questions, 3 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Recognize the characteristics of different types of chemical reactions and factors that affect rates of reaction and chemical equilibrium. | S.Types of Reactions; S.Reaction Rates; S.Equilibrium | Covered | 22 | 3 | 16 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (22 questions, 3 materials, 16 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Analyze phase changes and the characteristics of the different states of matter. | S.States of Matter; S.Phase Changes | Covered | 31 | 2 | 10 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (31 questions, 2 materials, 10 cards, 2 videos). |
| f. Apply knowledge of the kinetic molecular theory as it applies to solid, liquid, and gaseous states of matter. | S.Kinetic Molecular Theory of Matter | Partially covered | 5 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (5 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
SMR 105.0003 · Demonstrate knowledge of the characteristics of different forms of energy and of mechanical and electromagnetic waves.153 questions · 14 materials · 66 cards · 2 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of the law of conservation of energy. | S.Conservation of Energy Calculations | Covered | 8 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (8 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Demonstrate knowledge of the characteristics of different forms of energy (e.g., potential energy, kinetic energy) and their transformations. | S.Types of Energy | Covered | 29 | 1 | 8 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (29 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 1 videos). |
| c. Demonstrate knowledge of the transfer of energy through conduction, convection, and radiation, including using models. | S.Conduction, Convection, and Radiation | Covered | 17 | 1 | 4 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (17 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 1 videos). |
| d. Analyze characteristics of electrical charge and static electricity, problems involving Ohm's law, and series and parallel circuits. | S.Static Electricity; S.Electrical Charges; S.Series and Parallel; S.Ohms law | Covered | 29 | 4 | 13 | 0 | Covered by 4 topics (29 questions, 4 materials, 13 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Demonstrate knowledge of the relationship between magnetism and electricity as well as the properties of permanent magnets and electromagnets. | S.Electricity and Magnetism; S.Electromagnets | Covered | 28 | 2 | 16 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (28 questions, 2 materials, 16 cards, 0 videos). |
| f. Recognize the characteristics of the electromagnetic spectrum. | S.Electromagnetic Spectrum | Covered | 9 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (9 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos). |
| g. Analyze the effects of mirrors, lenses, and prisms on the behavior of light. | S.Mirrors; S.Lenses; S.Prisms | Covered | 15 | 3 | 14 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (15 questions, 3 materials, 14 cards, 0 videos). |
| h. Apply knowledge of the characteristics of waves (e.g., sound, mechanical, electromagnetic) and their behavior as they pass through different media, including the relationship between wave characteristics and their properties. | S.Properties of Waves | Covered | 18 | 1 | 13 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (18 questions, 1 materials, 13 cards, 0 videos). |
SMR 105.0004 · Apply knowledge of the relationships between force, mass, and motion.72 questions · 8 materials · 32 cards · 1 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Apply knowledge of Newton's three laws of motion in a variety of situations, including situations that involve balanced and unbalanced forces. | S.Newton's First Law; S.Newton's Second Law; S.Newton's Third Law | Covered | 14 | 3 | 1 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (14 questions, 3 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Apply knowledge of force, mass, and motion and solve problems related to distance, speed, velocity, and acceleration. | S.Force and Motion | Covered | 5 | 1 | 11 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (5 questions, 1 materials, 11 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Apply knowledge of separate forces that act on a system (e.g., gravity, friction, pressure, buoyancy) in a variety of situations, including determining the stability or net force (i.e., balanced and unbalanced forces) on a system. | S.Force and Motion; S.Gravity | Covered | 18 | 2 | 11 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (18 questions, 2 materials, 11 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Analyze the motion of an object, including through graphs and diagrams. | S.Motion Graphs | Covered | 24 | 1 | 3 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (24 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 1 videos). |
| e. Demonstrate knowledge of the principles of work and power, including as applied to simple machines. | S.Work, Energy, Power; S.Simple Machines - Basic | Covered | 16 | 2 | 18 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (16 questions, 2 materials, 18 cards, 0 videos). |
Life Science (Domain 106)Partially covered
SMR 106.0001 · Apply knowledge of the characteristics and processes of cells and living organisms.158 questions · 13 materials · 77 cards · 6 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Recognize how the structure of specialized cells relates to their various functions. | S.Types of Cells | Covered | 8 | 1 | 9 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (8 questions, 1 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Demonstrate knowledge of the structure and function of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, including cell organelles. | S.Eukaryotic vs Prokaryotic | Covered | 12 | 1 | 5 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (12 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 1 videos). |
| c. Analyze the reproduction, development, and life cycles of representative organisms. | S.Metamorphosis; S.Asexual Reproduction; S.Sexual Reproduction | Covered | 31 | 3 | 13 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (31 questions, 3 materials, 13 cards, 1 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of the structures and functions of plant and animal cells and systems, including the different levels of biological organization. | S.Parts of the Cell; S.Ecological Organization | Covered | 37 | 2 | 20 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (37 questions, 2 materials, 20 cards, 2 videos). |
| e. Analyze how body systems interact to carry out body processes. | S.Human Body Systems | Covered | 25 | 1 | 11 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (25 questions, 1 materials, 11 cards, 1 videos). |
| f. Analyze how organisms obtain, use, and store matter and energy. | S.Requirements of Life; S.Digestion and Excretory; S.Nutrition | Covered | 22 | 3 | 19 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (22 questions, 3 materials, 19 cards, 1 videos). |
| g. Analyze how organisms maintain homeostasis, fight diseases, and repair injuries. | S.Immune Systems; S.Homeostasis | Covered | 23 | 2 | 5 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (23 questions, 2 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos). |
SMR 106.0002 · Apply knowledge of the concepts and principles related to heredity, evolution, and ecosystems.170 questions · 17 materials · 74 cards · 6 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Recognize the basic principles of heredity, the nature of genetic variation and the methods and uses of genetic information. | S.Meiosis | Covered | 11 | 1 | 15 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (11 questions, 1 materials, 15 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Apply knowledge of the source and importance of variation of traits in a given species. | S.Relationship Between Genes and Traits; S.Environmental vs Genetic; S.Mutations | Covered | 13 | 3 | 5 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (13 questions, 3 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Apply knowledge of the principles of and evidence for biological evolution (e.g., utilizing a population graph to explain principles of natural selection). | S.Natural Selection; S.Types of Selection | Covered | 23 | 2 | 6 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (23 questions, 2 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of the major events in the history of life on Earth, including mass extinctions and the evolution of organisms, by analyzing patterns in the fossil record. | S.Earth's History - Evolutionary History; S.Macroevolution Evidence | Covered | 20 | 2 | 5 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (20 questions, 2 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Demonstrate knowledge of the characteristics of terrestrial and aquatic biomes, including representative species of plants and animals that inhabit them. | S.Major Biomes | Covered | 6 | 1 | 8 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos). |
| f. Analyze patterns across biomes (e.g., the climate, the availability of food and water, location). | S.Major Biomes | Covered | 6 | 1 | 8 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos). |
| g. Analyze the relationships between organisms in a variety of ecosystems and strategies used by different organisms to obtain the basic needs for life, including group behavior. | S.Types of Relationships | Covered | 19 | 1 | 5 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (19 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 1 videos). |
| h. Demonstrate knowledge of biotic and abiotic factors that affect population dynamics in ecosystems, including competition, resource availability, and niche and habitat requirements. | S.Habitats and Niches; S.Competition; S.Growth Factors | Covered | 28 | 3 | 16 | 2 | Covered by 3 topics (28 questions, 3 materials, 16 cards, 2 videos). |
| i. Apply knowledge of how human activity affects individual organisms, populations, communities, and ecosystems. | S.Human Impact on Ecosystems | Partially covered | 7 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (7 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| j. Evaluate historical models of biological classification. | S.Evolution and Taxonomic Systems | Partially covered | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (2 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| k. Analyze the cycling of matter and the flow of energy through different types of ecosystems (e.g., food webs, food chains, energy pyramids). | S.Roles In Food Chain; S.Food Webs | Covered | 41 | 2 | 15 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (41 questions, 2 materials, 15 cards, 2 videos). |
Earth and Space Science (Domain 107)Covered
SMR 107.0001 · Apply knowledge of the characteristics of the formation and processes of Earth and its surface, the solar system, and the universe.334 questions · 22 materials · 194 cards · 5 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Recognize the characteristics of stars and the evolution of galaxies, including theories about the origin and nature of the universe and supporting evidence. | S.Properties of Celestial Bodies | Covered | 6 | 1 | 21 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 21 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Analyze the interactions of the sun, the moon, and Earth and the effects of these interactions on Earth. | 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). |
| c. Demonstrate knowledge of the role of gravity and inertia in the solar system and the universe. | S.Gravity | Covered | 13 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (13 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of the characteristics of objects in the solar system (e.g., formation, history, structure, distance, size, the ability to support life). | S.Components of the Solar System; S.Conditions for Life | Covered | 23 | 2 | 30 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (23 questions, 2 materials, 30 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Apply knowledge of geologic evidence (e.g., rock strata, fossils, plate tectonics) to support the timeline of Earth's geologic history. | S.Advanced Structures of Earth; S.Structures of Earth - Evidence; S.Stratigraphy; S.Earth's History - Key Events; S.Formation of Fossils | Covered | 51 | 5 | 24 | 0 | Covered by 5 topics (51 questions, 5 materials, 24 cards, 0 videos). |
| f. Analyze tectonic processes, the mechanisms driving plate movements, and the landforms and geologic phenomena produced by movement at plate boundaries. | S.Volcanoes; S.Earthquakes; S.Tectonic Plate Theory | Covered | 53 | 3 | 45 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (53 questions, 3 materials, 45 cards, 0 videos). |
| g. Demonstrate knowledge of the processes involved in the rock cycle and of the characteristics of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, including the characteristics and origins of common rocks, minerals, and fossils. | S.Properties of Rocks and Minerals; S.Rock Cycle | Covered | 50 | 2 | 22 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (50 questions, 2 materials, 22 cards, 1 videos). |
| h. Analyze the constructive and destructive processes that shape Earth's surface, including weathering, erosion, transportation, and deposition. | 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). |
| i. Compare and contrast the characteristics and origins of renewable and nonrenewable resources. | S.Renewable vs Nonrenewable | Covered | 17 | 1 | 4 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (17 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 1 videos). |
SMR 107.0002 · Demonstrate knowledge of Earth's systems and human interrelationships with them.141 questions · 11 materials · 79 cards · 2 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Analyze the physical processes and interactions of the hydrologic cycle with Earth's atmosphere, geosphere, and biosphere. | S.Water Cycle | Covered | 20 | 1 | 9 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 9 cards, 1 videos). |
| b. Identify the processes and characteristics of marine and freshwater systems, including oceans, rivers, lakes, groundwater systems, and glaciers. | S.Bodies of Water | Covered | 10 | 1 | 13 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 13 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Demonstrate knowledge of the structure, functions, and characteristics of the different layers of Earth's atmosphere. | S.Composition and Layers of the Atmosphere | Covered | 20 | 1 | 12 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 12 cards, 1 videos). |
| d. Analyze atmospheric conditions and geographic factors that produce weather and natural hazards in different parts of the world and use weather maps and data to predict and explain weather events. | S.Weather Charts; S.Predicting Severe Weather | Covered | 18 | 2 | 23 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (18 questions, 2 materials, 23 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Identify factors controlling regional and global climate conditions and the role of humans in causing changes in climate, including the greenhouse effect and the roles of Earth systems in regulating change. | S.Human Influences on Climate | Covered | 9 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (9 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
| f. Analyze how current changes in global climate impact Earth systems (e.g., ecosystems, the hydrosphere, coastal processes, agriculture). | S.Human Populations Impact the Earth | Covered | 20 | 1 | 3 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos). |
| g. Evaluate solutions for sustaining the quality and supply of natural resources (e.g., water, soil, air). | S.Environmental Stewardship | Covered | 13 | 1 | 8 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (13 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos). |
| h. Analyze factors that contribute to global warming and its impact on Earth. | S.Global Warming | Covered | 21 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (21 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
| i. Demonstrate knowledge of the ways in which science, engineering practices, and technology can be used to reduce humans' impact on the environment. | S.Types of Power Sources; S.Green Energy Technology | Covered | 10 | 2 | 9 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (10 questions, 2 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos). |
How 240 Creates The GACE Middle Grades Science 4-8 (705) 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 GACE Middle Grades Science 4-8.
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 GACE 705 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 GACE Middle Grades Science 4-8 Study Guide
The questions teacher candidates ask us most often about the GACE Middle Grades Science 4-8 study guide.
Is 240 a good study guide for GACE Middle Grades Science 4-8?
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 GACE 705 exam?
This guide is 97% 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.