240's NES Chemistry Study Guide Is 91% Test-Aligned

240's NES Chemistry study guide is built around the official exam framework so you can study what is actually tested. This page shows exactly how the guide maps to the real exam — SMR by SMR and competency by competency — so you can see where coverage is strongest, where some depth gaps remain, and how each part of the guide supports your prep.

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91%
test-aligned
56
Fully covered
5
Partially covered
3
Coverage gap
Based on a competency-by-competency review of the official framework and the lessons, practice questions, flashcards, videos, and study materials included in this guide.
1017
Practice Questions
433
Flashcards
111
Study Materials
10
Videos

Why Test Alignment Matters for Your NES Chemistry 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 NES Chemistry (306) 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 NES 306 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

5 domains · 64 competencies reviewed · 91% test-aligned
Covered— competency is comprehensively supported by the guide
Partially covered— core content is covered, but some depth gaps remain
Coverage gap identified— a 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.
NATURE OF SCIENCE (DOMAIN I) Partially covered
SMR I.0001 Understand principles and procedures of scientific inquiry.
170 Qs14 Materials50 Cards3 VideosCovered
Official CompetencyMatching 240 TopicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of the principles and procedures for designing and carrying out scientific investigations. S.Scientific Method; S.Experimental Investigations; S.Non-Experimental Investigations Covered 55 3 16 2 Covered by 3 topics (55 questions, 3 materials, 16 cards, 2 videos).
B. Recognize methods and criteria for collecting, organizing, analyzing, and numerically and graphically presenting scientific data. 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).
C. Recognize the evidential basis of scientific claims. S.Repeatability; S.Prediction, Explanation, Theory, Fact Covered 20 2 6 1 Covered by 2 topics (20 questions, 2 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos).
D. Demonstrate knowledge of the safety procedures and hazards associated with chemical investigations and the materials, equipment, and measurement standards used in chemistry. S.Safety Rules; S.Emergency Procedures; S.Safety Icons; S.Safety Rules - Chemistry Covered 48 4 14 0 Covered by 4 topics (48 questions, 4 materials, 14 cards, 0 videos).
E. Apply basic mathematical procedures and concepts of uncertainty in reporting data and solving problems in chemistry. 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).
SMR I.0002 Understand the history and nature of science.
96 Qs8 Materials80 Cards0 VideosPartially covered
Official CompetencyMatching 240 TopicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of the historical development of major scientific ideas. None Coverage gap identified 0 0 0 0 No matching topic found in the study guide.
B. Demonstrate knowledge of major contemporary theories, laws, models, and concepts in physics, biology, and Earth and space science. S.Key History of Science; S.Famous Experiments Covered 23 2 60 0 Covered by 2 topics (23 questions, 2 materials, 60 cards, 0 videos).
C. Demonstrate knowledge of unifying themes, principles, and relationships that connect the different branches of the sciences and the uses and limitations of models. S.Properties of Systems; S.Change In Systems; S.Change, Constancy, and Measurements; S.Evidence, Models, and Explanation; S.Models Covered 63 5 16 0 Covered by 5 topics (63 questions, 5 materials, 16 cards, 0 videos).
D. Demonstrate knowledge of the nature of science and its characteristics as a system of inquiry. S.Nature of Science Covered 10 1 6 0 Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos).
SMR I.0003 Understand the relationships among science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and society.
54 Qs4 Materials7 Cards0 VideosPartially covered
Official CompetencyMatching 240 TopicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Analyze the interrelationships among chemistry, technology, engineering, mathematics, and society. S.Interdisciplinary Connections Covered 14 1 3 0 Covered by 1 topic (14 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos).
B. Evaluate scientific research and the coverage of science in the media. None Coverage gap identified 0 0 0 0 No matching topic found in the study guide.
C. Analyze social, economic, and ethical issues associated with technological and scientific developments. S.Ethics; S.Decision Making; S.Human Populations Impact the Earth Covered 40 3 4 0 Covered by 3 topics (40 questions, 3 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos).
MATTER AND ATOMIC STRUCTURE (DOMAIN II) Covered
SMR II.0004 Understand the properties of matter.
96 Qs9 Materials54 Cards1 VideosCovered
Official CompetencyMatching 240 TopicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Analyze the characteristics of elements, compounds, and mixtures. S.Elements and Compounds Covered 10 1 3 0 Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos).
B. Apply methods used to determine the chemical and physical properties of unknown substances. S.Physical Properties; S.Chemical Properties; S.Applications of Physical and Chemical Properties Covered 27 3 40 0 Covered by 3 topics (27 questions, 3 materials, 40 cards, 0 videos).
C. Analyze physical, chemical, and nuclear changes in matter. S.Radioactivity; S.Chemical vs Physical Changes; S.Conservation of Matter and Energy; S.Half-life Calculations Covered 54 4 13 1 Covered by 4 topics (54 questions, 4 materials, 13 cards, 1 videos).
D. Demonstrate knowledge of the characteristics of radioactive materials. S.Radioactivity; S.Applications of Radioactivity Covered 19 2 8 0 Covered by 2 topics (19 questions, 2 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos).
SMR II.0005 Understand atomic theory and the periodic table.
83 Qs10 Materials56 Cards1 VideosCovered
Official CompetencyMatching 240 TopicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Analyze various historical and contemporary models of atomic structure and the supporting evidence for these models. S.Quantum Applications; S.Atomic Models Covered 8 2 8 0 Covered by 2 topics (8 questions, 2 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos).
B. Demonstrate knowledge of the properties of and interactions between electrons, protons, and neutrons; and the relationships among energy levels, photons, and atomic spectra. S.Dual Nature of Light; S.Parts of an Atom Covered 16 2 15 1 Covered by 2 topics (16 questions, 2 materials, 15 cards, 1 videos).
C. Demonstrate the ability to analyze electron configurations, orbital notations (or diagrams), and Lewis (or electron) dot symbols. S.Electron Arrangements; S.Molecular Orbital Theory - Bond Order; S.Lewis Dot Structure Covered 20 3 11 0 Covered by 3 topics (20 questions, 3 materials, 11 cards, 0 videos).
D. Demonstrate knowledge of the organization of the periodic table and its usefulness in predicting the physical and chemical properties and relative reactivity of given elements. S.Periodic Table; S.Periodic Table and Physical Properties; S.Periodic Table and Chemical Properties Covered 39 3 24 0 Covered by 3 topics (39 questions, 3 materials, 24 cards, 0 videos).
SMR II.0006 Understand the kinetic molecular theory, the nature of phase changes, and the gas laws.
82 Qs9 Materials27 Cards2 VideosCovered
Official CompetencyMatching 240 TopicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of the basic principles of the kinetic molecular theory and the distinguishing characteristics of the four states of matter. S.States of Matter; S.Plasma; S.Phase Changes; S.Kinetic Molecular Theory of Matter Covered 42 4 14 2 Covered by 4 topics (42 questions, 4 materials, 14 cards, 2 videos).
B. Analyze heating and cooling curves and phase diagrams. S.Phase Diagrams Covered 6 1 7 0 Covered by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 7 cards, 0 videos).
C. Demonstrate knowledge of the relationships among volume, temperature, and pressure in gases. S.Gas Laws; S.Kinetic Molecular Theory and Gas Laws; S.Stoichiometry of Gasses Covered 30 3 6 0 Covered by 3 topics (30 questions, 3 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos).
D. Solve problems involving the gas laws. S.Gas Laws; S.Partial Pressures; S.Stoichiometry of Gasses Covered 25 3 7 0 Covered by 3 topics (25 questions, 3 materials, 7 cards, 0 videos).
ENERGY AND CHEMICAL BONDING (DOMAIN III) Partially covered
SMR III.0007 Understand the principles of thermodynamics and calorimetry.
34 Qs5 Materials14 Cards0 VideosPartially covered
Official CompetencyMatching 240 TopicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Analyze the three laws of thermodynamics and their applications to chemical and biochemical systems. S.Laws of Thermodynamics Covered 8 1 9 0 Covered by 1 topic (8 questions, 1 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos).
B. Predict the spontaneity of given chemical reactions. S.Entropy Partially covered 6 1 1 0 Partial coverage by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
C. Differentiate among forms of energy and between heat and temperature. S.Heat vs Temperature Covered 11 1 3 0 Covered by 1 topic (11 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos).
D. Analyze the results of calorimetry experiments. S.Calculations with Specific Heat; S.Calorimetry and System Energy Covered 9 2 3 0 Covered by 2 topics (9 questions, 2 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos).
SMR III.0008 Understand energy relationships in chemical bonding, chemical reactions, and physical processes.
19 Qs4 Materials14 Cards0 VideosPartially covered
Official CompetencyMatching 240 TopicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Analyze energy changes due to the formation or breaking of chemical bonds. S.Enthalpy - Applications to Photosynthesis and Respiration Partially covered 1 0 1 0 Partial coverage by 1 topic (1 questions, 0 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
B. Analyze energy changes during chemical reactions, including the analysis of enthalpy diagrams. S.Enthalpy; S.Enthalpy - Hess's Law Covered 14 2 10 0 Covered by 2 topics (14 questions, 2 materials, 10 cards, 0 videos).
C. Analyze energy changes involved in phase transitions, dissolving solutes in solvents, and diluting solutions S.Energy Changes - Dissolutions; S.Energy Changes - Dilutions Partially covered 4 2 3 0 Partial coverage by 2 topics (4 questions, 2 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
SMR III.0009 Understand the nomenclature and structure of inorganic and organic compounds.
78 Qs8 Materials38 Cards1 VideosCovered
Official CompetencyMatching 240 TopicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Apply the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) rules of nomenclature. S.Naming Basic Chemicals; S.Nomenclature Covered 21 2 2 0 Covered by 2 topics (21 questions, 2 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos).
B. Analyze the characteristics of inorganic structures, including ionic solids, network solids, and metallic solids. S.Molecular Structure of Materials Affecting Physical Properties Covered 6 1 19 0 Covered by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 19 cards, 0 videos).
C. Predict the geometry of molecules and polyatomic ions. S.Molecular orbital theory - Shapes; S.Molecular Geometry Covered 12 2 9 0 Covered by 2 topics (12 questions, 2 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos).
D. Analyze the chemical composition and basic structure of organic compounds. S.Macromolecules; S.Functional Groups Covered 21 2 8 1 Covered by 2 topics (21 questions, 2 materials, 8 cards, 1 videos).
E. Recognize the characteristics of structural, geometric, and optical isomers. S.Types of Bonds Covered 18 1 8 0 Covered by 1 topic (18 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos).
SMR III.0010 Understand chemical bonding and intermolecular forces and their effect on the properties of substances.
49 Qs6 Materials22 Cards0 VideosCovered
Official CompetencyMatching 240 TopicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Compare the characteristics of types of chemical bonds. S.Types of Bonds; S.Hydrogen Bonds; S.Molecular Bonding - Polarity Covered 30 3 11 0 Covered by 3 topics (30 questions, 3 materials, 11 cards, 0 videos).
B. Analyze chemical bonding in terms of electron behavior and the factors that affect bond strength. S.Single, Double, Triple Bonds; S.Bond Energy Covered 12 2 6 0 Covered by 2 topics (12 questions, 2 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos).
C. Analyze the characteristics of various types of intermolecular forces and the forces between molecules of a given structure. S.Intermolecular and Intramolecular Forces Covered 7 1 9 0 Covered by 1 topic (7 questions, 1 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos).
D. Relate the properties of substances to their atomic bonds and intermolecular forces. S.Intermolecular and Intramolecular Forces Covered 7 1 9 0 Covered by 1 topic (7 questions, 1 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos).
CHEMICAL REACTIONS (DOMAIN IV) Partially covered
SMR IV.0011 Understand the nature of chemical reactions.
66 Qs9 Materials54 Cards0 VideosPartially covered
Official CompetencyMatching 240 TopicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Analyze different types of chemical reactions. S.Types of Reactions; S.Chemical Equations; S.Chemical Reactions in Real Life Covered 23 3 36 0 Covered by 3 topics (23 questions, 3 materials, 36 cards, 0 videos).
B. Predict the outcomes of chemical reactions. S.Precipitation Reactions; S.Spontaneity Covered 13 2 10 0 Covered by 2 topics (13 questions, 2 materials, 10 cards, 0 videos).
C. Demonstrate knowledge of collision theory and factors that influence reaction rates. S.Kinetic Molecular Theory of Matter; S.Gas Laws; S.Reaction Rates Covered 24 3 7 0 Covered by 3 topics (24 questions, 3 materials, 7 cards, 0 videos).
D. Analyze rate problems and experimental rate data. S.Reaction Rates - Rate Law Partially covered 6 1 3 0 Partial coverage by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
SMR IV.0012 Understand the principles of chemical equilibrium.
27 Qs4 Materials9 Cards0 VideosCovered
Official CompetencyMatching 240 TopicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of the concept of chemical equilibrium and the factors that influence chemical equilibrium. S.Enzymes; S.Equilibrium Covered 13 2 7 0 Covered by 2 topics (13 questions, 2 materials, 7 cards, 0 videos).
B. Apply Le Châtelier's principle to chemical systems. S.Equilibrium; S.Equilibrium and Gasses Covered 13 2 7 0 Covered by 2 topics (13 questions, 2 materials, 7 cards, 0 videos).
C. Solve problems involving equilibrium constants. S.Calculating Equilibrium Constants Covered 8 1 1 0 Covered by 1 topic (8 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos).
SMR IV.0013 Understand acid-base chemistry.
69 Qs8 Materials24 Cards1 VideosCovered
Official CompetencyMatching 240 TopicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Analyze acids and bases according to how they behave and how they are defined. S.pH; S.Acid/Base Classifications Covered 28 2 10 1 Covered by 2 topics (28 questions, 2 materials, 10 cards, 1 videos).
B. Determine the hydronium ion concentration, hydroxide ion concentration, pH, and pOH for acid, base, and salt solutions. S.pH and Ion Concentrations Covered 8 1 0 0 Covered by 1 topic (8 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos).
C. Demonstrate knowledge of the relationship between molecular structure and acid strength and the relative strengths of acids and bases. S.pH and Ka values Covered 9 1 2 0 Covered by 1 topic (9 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos).
D. Analyze buffer solutions qualitatively and quantitatively. S.Buffers Covered 8 1 2 0 Covered by 1 topic (8 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos).
E. Demonstrate knowledge of the principles and applications of acid-base titrations. S.Acid/Base Titrations; S.pH to Molarity; S.Neutralization Covered 16 3 10 0 Covered by 3 topics (16 questions, 3 materials, 10 cards, 0 videos).
SMR IV.0014 Understand oxidation-reduction reactions and electrochemistry.
36 Qs4 Materials16 Cards0 VideosPartially covered
Official CompetencyMatching 240 TopicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of oxidation, reduction, oxidation numbers, and the balancing of oxidation-reduction equations. S.Oxidation Number Examples; S.Redox Reactions Covered 18 2 2 0 Covered by 2 topics (18 questions, 2 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos).
B. Analyze the components and operating principles of electrochemical cells and electrolytic cells. S.Electrolytes Covered 11 1 10 0 Covered by 1 topic (11 questions, 1 materials, 10 cards, 0 videos).
C. Solve problems involving electrochemical cells. None Coverage gap identified 0 0 0 0 No matching topic found in the study guide.
D. Demonstrate knowledge of the applications of electrochemistry. S.Redox Reactions - Applications Covered 7 1 5 0 Covered by 1 topic (7 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos).
STOICHIOMETRY AND SOLUTIONS (DOMAIN V) Partially covered
SMR V.0015 Understand the mole concept.
26 Qs4 Materials9 Cards0 VideosCovered
Official CompetencyMatching 240 TopicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of the mole concept and its use in chemical calculations. S.Stoichiometry Covered 10 1 2 0 Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos).
B. Solve problems involving molar mass, percent-composition, and empirical and molecular formulas. S.Molarity; S.Percent Composition; S.Molality and Normality Covered 16 3 7 0 Covered by 3 topics (16 questions, 3 materials, 7 cards, 0 videos).
SMR V.0016 Understand stoichiometry.
22 Qs2 Materials3 Cards0 VideosCovered
Official CompetencyMatching 240 TopicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate the ability to interpret chemical notation, balance chemical equations, and recognize net ionic equations. S.Balancing Chemical Reactions Covered 14 1 1 0 Covered by 1 topic (14 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos).
B. Solve stoichiometric problems involving moles, mass, volume, and energy, including limiting reactant and percent yield. S.Stoichiometry - Limiting Reagents and Reaction Yield Covered 8 1 2 0 Covered by 1 topic (8 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos).
SMR V.0017 Understand the properties of solutions and colloidal suspensions.
47 Qs6 Materials31 Cards1 VideosPartially covered
Official CompetencyMatching 240 TopicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of different types of solutions, colloids, and suspensions. S.Mixtures and Solutions; S.Colloids and Suspensions; S.Types of Solutions Covered 25 3 15 1 Covered by 3 topics (25 questions, 3 materials, 15 cards, 1 videos).
B. Solve problems involving concentrations of solutions. S.Percent Solutions Partially covered 5 1 5 0 Partial coverage by 1 topic (5 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
C. Analyze factors that affect solubility and solubility curves. S.Solubility; S.Solubility for Gases Covered 12 1 4 0 Covered by 2 topics (12 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos).
D. Analyze the colligative properties of solutions. S.Colligative Properties of Solutions Covered 5 1 12 0 Covered by 1 topic (5 questions, 1 materials, 12 cards, 0 videos).

How 240 Creates The NES Chemistry (306) Study Guide

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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.

1
Review the official exam framework
We begin with the standards, domains, competencies, objectives, or content categories published by the testing authority.
2
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.
3
Build lessons around tested content
We create study materials to support the official blueprint, not broad filler content.
4
Cross-check practice against exam expectations
We review practice content against the framework and real exam patterns so preparation stays targeted.
5
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.

Built By Teachers for Teachers

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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 NES Chemistry.

Generic
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
Test-aligned
240 Test-Aligned NES 306 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 NES Chemistry Study Guide

The questions teacher candidates ask us most often about the NES Chemistry study guide.

1
Is 240 a good study guide for NES Chemistry?
240 is a strong option because the guide is built around the official exam framework and shows detailed alignment by SMR and competency.
2
How closely does 240 align to the NES 306 exam?
This guide is 91% aligned based on a competency-by-competency review of the official framework and the study resources included in the guide.
3
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.
4
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.

Study What's Actually on the NES 306 Exam

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