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 MTLE Elementary Education Subtest 3: Science and Social Studies 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 MTLE Elementary Education Subtest 3: Science and Social Studies 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 MTLE 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
2Domains
41Competencies reviewed
99%Test-aligned
40Covered
1Partially 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.
Science (Domain I)Covered
SMR I.0018 · Understand concepts related to scientific knowledge, engineering practices, and inquiry.302 questions · 29 materials · 219 cards · 4 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. recognizing characteristics of scientific knowledge (e.g., reliance on verifiable data, the use of theoretical models) and engineering practices (e.g., building models, refining design), the historical development of important ideas, and how diverse cultures and individuals have influenced and contributed to developments in science and engineering fields | S.Evidence, Models, and Explanation; S.Models; S.Limits of Science; S.Scientific Method; S.Key History of Science; S.Key History of Space Science; S.Diversity in Science History | Covered | 83 | 7 | 122 | 1 | Covered by 7 topics (83 questions, 7 materials, 122 cards, 1 videos). |
| b. recognizing questions and concepts that can be explored through scientific inquiry or engineering practices; comparing multiple types of inquiry for answering questions; and evaluating alternative explanations and models based on evidence, current scientific understanding, and logic | S.Limits of Science; S.Scientific Method; S.Background Research; S.Prediction, Explanation, Theory, Fact; S.Experimental Investigations; S.Non-Experimental Investigations; S.Variety of Methods Across Science | Covered | 72 | 7 | 21 | 3 | Covered by 7 topics (72 questions, 7 materials, 21 cards, 3 videos). |
| c. demonstrating knowledge of the design of scientific investigations (e.g., controlled experimentation) and engineering solutions (e.g., developing prototypes) and the use of appropriate scientific instrumentation, equipment, and mathematics as tools in scientific investigations and communication | S.Change, Constancy, and Measurements; S.Scientific Method; S.Background Research; S.Prediction, Explanation, Theory, Fact; S.Experimental Investigations; S.Non-Experimental Investigations; S.Variety of Methods Across Science; S.Repeatability; S.Best Chart for the Data; S.Read Scientific Publication; S.Significant Figures; S.Precision vs Accuracy; S.Error In Measurements; S.Proper Data Analysis; S.Trend Analysis of Scatterplots; S.Choose Appropriate Equipment - Advanced | Covered | 162 | 16 | 92 | 3 | Covered by 16 topics (162 questions, 16 materials, 92 cards, 3 videos). |
| d. demonstrating knowledge of connections across the domains of science; between science, engineering, and technology; and between science and other school subjects and the use of scientific understandings and abilities when making decisions about personal and societal issues | S.Variety of Methods Across Science; S.Interdisciplinary Connections; S.Ethics; S.Decision Making | Covered | 37 | 4 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 4 topics (37 questions, 4 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. demonstrating knowledge of legal responsibilities and recognized safety guidelines for teaching science and the correct use of required safety equipment for classroom, field, and laboratory settings | S.Safety Rules; S.Proper Handling - Chemicals; S.Proper Tool Use; S.Various Tools | Covered | 46 | 4 | 12 | 1 | Covered by 4 topics (46 questions, 4 materials, 12 cards, 1 videos). |
| f. demonstrating knowledge of the proper use and care of chemicals, supplies, and equipment used to teach science and of the ethics and restrictions on the use and care of organisms and the collecting of scientific specimens and data | S.Safety Rules; S.Proper Handling - Chemicals; S.Proper Tool Use; S.Various Tools | Covered | 46 | 4 | 12 | 1 | Covered by 4 topics (46 questions, 4 materials, 12 cards, 1 videos). |
SMR I.0019 · Understand the fundamental concepts and principles of physical science.510 questions · 46 materials · 234 cards · 12 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. applying knowledge of the structure and properties of matter and of physical and chemical changes in matter | S.Parts of an Atom; S.Atoms and Molecules; S.Elements and Compounds; S.Periodic Table; S.States of Matter; S.Phase Changes; S.Physical Properties; S.Chemical Properties; S.Applications of Physical and Chemical Properties; S.Gas Laws; S.Electrical Conductor vs Insulator; S.Thermal Conductor vs Insulator; S.Mixtures and Solutions; S.Separating Mixtures; S.Conservation of Matter and Energy | Covered | 150 | 15 | 98 | 6 | Covered by 15 topics (150 questions, 15 materials, 98 cards, 6 videos). |
| b. analyzing the forces that act on objects (e.g., using graphs to analyze the motion of objects in terms of speed and direction) | S.Motion Terms; S.Motion Graphs; S.Centripetal Force; S.Gravity; S.Electromagnetic Forces; S.Force and Newton's Laws; S.Newton's First Law; S.Newton's Second Law; S.Newton's Third Law; S.Work, Energy, Power - Calculations; S.Simple Machines - Basic; S.Geological Processes and Force | Covered | 129 | 12 | 44 | 3 | Covered by 12 topics (129 questions, 12 materials, 44 cards, 3 videos). |
| c. demonstrating knowledge of the properties and characteristics of light, heat, electricity, and magnetism | S.Heat vs Temperature; S.Properties of Waves; S.Light; S.Reflection and Refraction; S.Conduction, Convection, and Radiation; S.Endothermic vs Exothermic; S.Electricity and Magnetism; S.Electrical Charges; S.Circuits; S.Types of Voltage Sources; S.Magnetic Materials; S.Magnetic Forces and Fields | Covered | 137 | 12 | 59 | 2 | Covered by 12 topics (137 questions, 12 materials, 59 cards, 2 videos). |
| d. demonstrating knowledge of the properties and characteristics of different forms of energy and of concepts related to the transfer, transformation, and conservation of energy | S.Types of Energy; S.Heat vs Temperature; S.Properties of Waves; S.Sound; S.Light; S.Reflection and Refraction; S.Conduction, Convection, and Radiation; S.Conservation of Energy Calculations; S.Applications of Conservation of Energy; S.Types of Energy Transfers By Humans; S.Types of Energy Transfers in Ecology; S.Types of Energy Transfers in Space; S.Electricity and Magnetism | Covered | 181 | 13 | 79 | 2 | Covered by 13 topics (181 questions, 13 materials, 79 cards, 2 videos). |
SMR I.0020 · Understand the fundamental concepts and principles of life science.509 questions · 43 materials · 214 cards · 18 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. demonstrating knowledge of the characteristics, structures, functions, and life processes of plants, animals, and other living organisms | S.Requirements of Life; S.Carbon-Based Life; S.Metabolism Molecules; S.Photosynthesis; S.Eukaryotic vs Prokaryotic; S.Major Groups of Eukaryotic Life; S.Cells, Tissues, Organs, Organ Systems; S.Human Body Systems; S.Cell Theory; S.Parts of the Cell; S.Types of Cells; S.Plant Systems Basics; S.Plant Reproduction | Covered | 178 | 13 | 99 | 7 | Covered by 13 topics (178 questions, 13 materials, 99 cards, 7 videos). |
| b. demonstrating knowledge of physiological processes that regulate and maintain life processes and behavioral responses to internal or external stimuli | S.Requirements of Life; S.Carbon-Based Life; S.Metabolism Molecules; S.Cells, Tissues, Organs, Organ Systems; S.Human Body Systems; S.Parts of the Cell; S.Types of Cells; S.Stimuli; S.Homeostasis; S.Structures and Processes of Homeostasis; S.Positive and Negative Feedback | Covered | 139 | 11 | 55 | 5 | Covered by 11 topics (139 questions, 11 materials, 55 cards, 5 videos). |
| c. applying knowledge of the life cycles and reproductive processes of common organisms and the principles of heredity in the transmission of traits from one generation to the next | S.Reproduction and Development; S.Asexual Reproduction; S.Sexual Reproduction; S.Mitosis; S.Meiosis; S.Somatic vs Sex Cells; S.Dominant vs Recessive; S.Punnett Squares | Covered | 94 | 8 | 52 | 2 | Covered by 8 topics (94 questions, 8 materials, 52 cards, 2 videos). |
| d. applying knowledge of the interrelationships between organisms and their environment | S.Ecological Organization; S.Habitats and Niches; S.Roles In Food Chain; S.Food Webs; S.Growth Factors; S.Types of Relationships; S.Competition; S.Environment as a Pressure; S.Wildlife Impact on Ecosystems; S.Human Impact on Ecosystems; S.Ecological Succession | Covered | 122 | 11 | 49 | 6 | Covered by 11 topics (122 questions, 11 materials, 49 cards, 6 videos). |
| e. recognizing characteristics of and interactions among populations of organisms in ecosystems, including the impact of humans on various ecosystems | S.Ecological Organization; S.Habitats and Niches; S.Roles In Food Chain; S.Food Webs; S.Growth Factors; S.Types of Relationships; S.Competition; S.Environment as a Pressure; S.Wildlife Impact on Ecosystems; S.Human Impact on Ecosystems | Covered | 114 | 10 | 46 | 6 | Covered by 10 topics (114 questions, 10 materials, 46 cards, 6 videos). |
| f. demonstrating knowledge of the diversity of organisms and the ways in which organisms have adapted to their environments | S.Environment as a Pressure; S.Ecological Succession; S.Environmental vs Genetic; S.Learned vs Inherited; S.Mutations; S.Adaptations; S.Populations Change (Not Individuals); S.Natural Selection; S.Artificial Selection | Covered | 77 | 9 | 22 | 2 | Covered by 9 topics (77 questions, 9 materials, 22 cards, 2 videos). |
SMR I.0021 · Understand the fundamental concepts and principles of Earth and space science.491 questions · 34 materials · 295 cards · 10 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. recognizing characteristics, properties, and uses of Earth materials | S.Renewable vs Nonrenewable; S.Types of Power Sources; S.Resource Extraction; S.Structures of Earth; S.Properties of Rocks and Minerals; S.Soil; S.Surface Water vs Groundwater; S.Bodies of Water | Covered | 93 | 8 | 56 | 2 | Covered by 8 topics (93 questions, 8 materials, 56 cards, 2 videos). |
| b. recognizing properties and characteristics of objects in space (e.g., sun, planets, comets) | S.Components of the Solar System; S.The Sun; S.Properties of Celestial Bodies | Covered | 35 | 3 | 59 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (35 questions, 3 materials, 59 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. applying knowledge of Earth's position and movement in the solar system and interactions between Earth, the moon, and the sun (e.g., seasons, tides) | 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). |
| d. demonstrating knowledge of the properties and processes of Earth's hydrosphere, biosphere, atmosphere, and lithosphere and interactions between them | S.Structures of Earth; S.Properties of Rocks and Minerals; S.Soil; S.Constructive and Destructive Processes; S.Earthquakes; S.Surface Water vs Groundwater; S.Bodies of Water; S.Composition and Layers of the Atmosphere; S.Clouds; S.Rock Cycle; S.Water Cycle; S.Types of Precipitation; S.Properties of Water; S.Carbon Cycle; S.Nitrogen Cycle | Covered | 224 | 15 | 132 | 7 | Covered by 15 topics (224 questions, 15 materials, 132 cards, 7 videos). |
| e. demonstrating knowledge of the history of Earth, including geologic and atmospheric processes that have changed and shaped the surface of Earth and its environment and evidence of these changes (e.g., fossils) | S.Structures of Earth; S.Constructive and Destructive Processes; S.Volcanoes; S.Earthquakes; S.Earth's History; S.Earth's History - Key Events; S.Tectonic Plate Theory; S.Formation of Fossils; S.Composition and Layers of the Atmosphere; S.Rock Cycle | Covered | 179 | 10 | 102 | 4 | Covered by 10 topics (179 questions, 10 materials, 102 cards, 4 videos). |
| f. recognizing the interactions between humans and Earth systems (e.g., atmospheric changes, acid rain, earthquakes, floods) | S.Earthquakes; S.Carbon Cycle; S.Human Influences on Climate; S.Global Warming; S.Ozone Depletion | Covered | 59 | 5 | 24 | 1 | Covered by 5 topics (59 questions, 5 materials, 24 cards, 1 videos). |
Social Studies (Domain II)Partially covered
SMR II.0022 · Understand the processes and tools of inquiry and problem solving in social studies.182 questions · 10 materials · 35 cards · 5 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. demonstrating knowledge of sources of information used in social studies and their ethical use (e.g., primary sources, Internet, copyright, source citations) | Skill - Primary and Secondary Sources; P.Copyright and Acceptable Use; Teaching - Integrating Digital Technology | Covered | 52 | 3 | 13 | 2 | Covered by 3 topics (52 questions, 3 materials, 13 cards, 2 videos). |
| b. recognizing stages in the inquiry process (e.g., developing the essential question; forming a hypothesis; finding, collecting, and organizing historical research) | Teaching - Research Skills | Covered | 25 | 1 | 6 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (25 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. applying knowledge of the use of tools of inquiry and problem solving (e.g., graphs, maps, timelines) | Skill - Analysis of Graphics; Types of Maps; Using Maps | Covered | 64 | 3 | 13 | 2 | Covered by 3 topics (64 questions, 3 materials, 13 cards, 2 videos). |
| d. applying knowledge of a variety of social studies processes (e.g., differentiating facts from opinions, recognizing cause-and-effect relationships, assessing credibility of source information) | ELA.Skill - Fact vs Opinion; Skill - Social Studies Vocabulary; Teaching - Social Studies Skills | Covered | 41 | 3 | 3 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (41 questions, 3 materials, 3 cards, 1 videos). |
SMR II.0023 · Understand characteristics of and interactions between people, places, and environments.299 questions · 21 materials · 150 cards · 7 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. applying knowledge of the major themes of geography (i.e., location, place, region, movement, and human–environment interactions) | Themes of Geography; Political Regions of the World; Regions V1; Causes of Human Migration; U.S. Geography V1 | Covered | 56 | 5 | 26 | 1 | Covered by 5 topics (56 questions, 5 materials, 26 cards, 1 videos). |
| b. demonstrating knowledge of characteristics of ancient and modern cultures and their historical contributions, including the cultures of Minnesota-based American Indian tribes | Trends in Early Civilizations; Native American Groups Pre-Colonization; Key Minnesota History | Covered | 47 | 3 | 17 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (47 questions, 3 materials, 17 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. demonstrating knowledge of historical and modern perspectives of significant eras, themes, individuals, and chronological relationships in U.S. and Minnesota history | European Exploration and Colonization V1; Key Names in Early Republic; Westward Expansion and Manifest Destiny; Great Depression and the New Deal | Covered | 84 | 4 | 46 | 3 | Covered by 4 topics (84 questions, 4 materials, 46 cards, 3 videos). |
| d. demonstrating knowledge of historical and modern perspectives of significant eras, themes, individuals, and chronological relationships in world history | Themes - Major Eras; Decline of Western Roman Empire; Rise of Feudalism; Growth of Islam | Covered | 64 | 4 | 58 | 0 | Covered by 4 topics (64 questions, 4 materials, 58 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. demonstrating knowledge of natural resources and how their management and use affects the environment | Resources - Advanced; Human-Environment Interaction; Impacts of Human Innovations | Covered | 39 | 3 | 13 | 3 | Covered by 3 topics (39 questions, 3 materials, 13 cards, 3 videos). |
| f. demonstrating knowledge of the environment as an integrating concept across academic disciplines | Trade; Ecosystems | Covered | 14 | 2 | 2 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (14 questions, 2 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos). |
SMR II.0024 · Understand characteristics of and interactions between individuals, groups, and institutions.350 questions · 21 materials · 142 cards · 9 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. demonstrating knowledge of the characteristics of different forms of government, including the governments of Minnesota-based American Indian tribes, and the reasons people create and change governments | Purposes of Government; Implications of Different Forms of Government | Covered | 30 | 2 | 20 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (30 questions, 2 materials, 20 cards, 1 videos). |
| b. demonstrating knowledge of the origins, core democratic values, and principles of constitutional democracy in the United States | Origins of Democracy; Principles in Founding Documents | Covered | 51 | 2 | 22 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (51 questions, 2 materials, 22 cards, 2 videos). |
| c. demonstrating knowledge of the structure and functions of government in the United States | Structure and Functions of Federal Government | Covered | 56 | 1 | 25 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (56 questions, 1 materials, 25 cards, 1 videos). |
| d. recognizing the rights and responsibilities of individuals in society and of the ideals, principles, and practices that promote productive community involvement | Fundamental Citizenship Rights; Rights, Responsibilities and Freedoms | Covered | 33 | 2 | 12 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (33 questions, 2 materials, 12 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. demonstrating knowledge of thinking, learning, memory, behavior, and the individual development of personality and identity in humans | P.The Four Domains; P.Personality and Temperament; Expectations and Benefits of Citizenship | Covered | 35 | 3 | 13 | 2 | Covered by 3 topics (35 questions, 3 materials, 13 cards, 2 videos). |
| f. demonstrating knowledge of interactions between individuals, groups, cultures, and institutions in a society | Basic Concepts of Culture; Impact of Race, Gender, Class on Society; Sociological Institutions and Structures V1; Religions of the World | Covered | 44 | 4 | 28 | 1 | Covered by 4 topics (44 questions, 4 materials, 28 cards, 1 videos). |
| g. demonstrating knowledge of the concepts of global connection and independence, including needs and wants and how people organize for the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services | Basic Economic Concepts; Economic Systems; Interdependence of Nations - Advanced | Covered | 67 | 3 | 22 | 2 | Covered by 3 topics (67 questions, 3 materials, 22 cards, 2 videos). |
| h. demonstrating knowledge of the application of economic concepts and principles to personal financial planning, budgeting, spending, investing, borrowing, and insuring decisions | Consumer Decisions | Partially covered | 6 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| i. demonstrating knowledge of the relationships between science, technology, and society | Connections Across Subject Areas; Connections to the Real World; M.Financial Literacy | Covered | 28 | 3 | 9 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (28 questions, 3 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos). |
How 240 Creates The MTLE Elementary Education Subtest 3: Science and Social Studies 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 MTLE Elementary Education Subtest 3: Science and Social Studies.
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 MTLE 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 MTLE Elementary Education Subtest 3: Science and Social Studies Study Guide
The questions teacher candidates ask us most often about the MTLE Elementary Education Subtest 3: Science and Social Studies study guide.
Is 240 a good study guide for MTLE Elementary Education Subtest 3: Science and Social Studies?
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 MTLE exam?
This guide is 99% 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.