Coverage by content domain
Lessons and questions are organized around the exam’s content areas so your preparation reflects the structure of the assessment.
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NES test alignment
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.
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.
Transparent coverage
Our curriculum team begins with the official test framework, identifies the knowledge and skills candidates are expected to demonstrate, and maps instruction and practice to those expectations.
Lessons and questions are organized around the exam’s content areas so your preparation reflects the structure of the assessment.
Every competency is marked covered, partially covered, or a gap, so you can see where the guide is strongest and where to add your own review.
Alignment records provide a maintainable source of truth when exam frameworks, names, or objectives are updated.
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.
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.
5Domains
64Competencies reviewed
91%Test-aligned
56Covered
5Partially covered
3Gaps
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.
SMR I.0001 · Understand principles and procedures of scientific inquiry.170 questions · 14 materials · 50 cards · 4 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 1 | Covered by 4 topics (48 questions, 4 materials, 14 cards, 1 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 questions · 8 materials · 80 cards · 0 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 questions · 4 materials · 7 cards · 0 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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). |
SMR II.0004 · Understand the properties of matter.96 questions · 9 materials · 54 cards · 1 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 questions · 10 materials · 56 cards · 1 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 questions · 9 materials · 27 cards · 2 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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). |
SMR III.0007 · Understand the principles of thermodynamics and calorimetry.34 questions · 5 materials · 14 cards · 0 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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.18 questions · 4 materials · 15 cards · 0 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 13 | 2 | 11 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (13 questions, 2 materials, 11 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 questions · 8 materials · 38 cards · 1 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 questions · 6 materials · 22 cards · 0 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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). |
SMR IV.0011 · Understand the nature of chemical reactions.66 questions · 9 materials · 54 cards · 0 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 questions · 4 materials · 9 cards · 0 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 questions · 8 materials · 24 cards · 1 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 questions · 4 materials · 16 cards · 0 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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). |
SMR V.0015 · Understand the mole concept.26 questions · 4 materials · 9 cards · 0 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 questions · 2 materials · 3 cards · 0 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 questions · 6 materials · 31 cards · 1 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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). |
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.
We begin with the standards, domains, competencies, objectives, or content categories published by the testing authority.
We map every major area the exam is designed to cover so the guide reflects the real structure of the test.
We create study materials to support the official blueprint, not broad filler content.
We review practice content against the framework and real exam patterns so preparation stays targeted.
When official frameworks change, we review guides and update alignment as needed.
Reviewed by subject-matter experts and maintained to reflect current standards.
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.
The questions teacher candidates ask us most often about the NES Chemistry study guide.
240 is a strong option because the guide is built around the official exam framework and shows detailed alignment by SMR and competency.
This guide is 91% aligned based on a competency-by-competency review of the official framework and the study resources included in the guide.
This page shows coverage transparently across covered, partially covered, and identified gaps so candidates can see exactly how the guide maps to the exam.
Partially covered means the guide addresses the core parts of a competency, but some depth or subtopics may still be limited.
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