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NES test alignment

240's NES Earth and Space Science Study Guide Is 90% Test-Aligned

240's NES Earth and Space Science 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.

90%test-aligned
52Fully covered
6Partially covered
3Coverage 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.

Transparent coverage

NES 307

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.

01

Coverage by content domain

Lessons and questions are organized around the exam’s content areas so your preparation reflects the structure of the assessment.

02

Honest about depth

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.

03

Reviewed as exams change

Alignment records provide a maintainable source of truth when exam frameworks, names, or objectives are updated.

Why Test Alignment Matters for Your NES Earth and Space Science Study Guide

Certification test standards are broad, but the exam questions are very specific. Our team of curriculum experts uses the 240 Study Guide Creation Process to ensure the most aligned, specific content for your NES Earth and Space Science (307) 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 307 study guide

  • Built around the official exam framework
  • Organized by the competencies actually used on the exam
  • Shows exactly what is covered and where depth is partial
  • Includes aligned questions, flashcards, study materials, and videos
  • Helps candidates study what is actually tested instead of broad generic content

Transparent coverage is a strength. We show where the guide is strong, where depth is partial, and where a gap has been identified so you can make an informed study decision.

How to Read This Alignment Review

5Domains

61Competencies reviewed

90%Test-aligned

52Covered

6Partially covered

3Gaps

  • 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.

Nature of Science (Domain I)Partially covered

SMR I.0001 · Understand principles and processes of scientific inquiry.300 questions · 31 materials · 127 cards · 8 videosCovered

Official competencyMatching 240 topicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of the principles and processes for designing and carrying out scientific investigations.S.Repeatability; S.Scientific Method; S.Background Research; S.Experimental Investigations; S.Scientific Lab TechniquesCovered695222Covered by 5 topics (69 questions, 5 materials, 22 cards, 2 videos).
B. Apply methods and criteria for collecting, organizing, interpreting, analyzing, synthesizing, and presenting scientific data.S.Best Chart for the Data; S.Proper Data Analysis; S.Trend Analysis of Scatterplots; S.Trend Analysis in Data - Natural Systems; S.Precision vs Accuracy; S.Error In MeasurementsCovered436250Covered by 6 topics (43 questions, 6 materials, 25 cards, 0 videos).
C. Recognize the evidential basis of scientific claims.S.Evidence, Models, and Explanation; S.Limits of Science; S.Observation vs Inference; S.Non-Experimental InvestigationsCovered254120Covered by 4 topics (25 questions, 4 materials, 12 cards, 0 videos).
D. Demonstrate knowledge of safety procedures and hazards associated with Earth and space science investigations and the materials, equipment, and technology used in Earth and space science.S.Safety Rules; S.Emergency Procedures; S.Safety Icons; S.Maintaining Equipment; S.Proper Tool Use; S.Various Tools; S.Choose Appropriate Equipment - AdvancedCovered567521Covered by 7 topics (56 questions, 7 materials, 52 cards, 1 videos).
E. Apply appropriate mathematical procedures, units, and scientific notation in reporting data and solving problems in Earth and space science.S.Measures of Center and Range; M.Exponential and Scientific Notation; M.Measurement Principles; M.Choosing Appropriate Units; M.Converting Units - Proportional Reasoning; S.Significant Figures; S.Celestial Distance; S.Metric System; S.Converting Units - Dimensional AnalysisCovered1079225Covered by 9 topics (107 questions, 9 materials, 22 cards, 5 videos).

SMR I.0002 · Understand the history and nature of science.132 questions · 13 materials · 135 cards · 1 videosCovered

Official competencyMatching 240 topicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of the historical development of major scientific ideas.S.Famous Experiments; S.Key History of Space ScienceCovered152500Covered by 2 topics (15 questions, 2 materials, 50 cards, 0 videos).
B. Demonstrate knowledge of major contemporary theories, models, and concepts in the other sciences, including physics, chemistry, and biology.S.Interdisciplinary Connections; S.Key History of ScienceCovered322630Covered by 2 topics (32 questions, 2 materials, 63 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.Evidence, Models, and Explanation; S.Change, Constancy, and Measurements; S.Properties of Systems; S.Change In Systems; S.Form and Function; S.Variety of Methods Across ScienceCovered656150Covered by 6 topics (65 questions, 6 materials, 15 cards, 0 videos).
D. Demonstrate knowledge of the major principles of the nature of science and its characteristics as a system of inquiry.S.Evidence, Models, and Explanation; S.Limits of Science; S.Nature of Science; S.Prediction, Explanation, Theory, FactCovered324101Covered by 4 topics (32 questions, 4 materials, 10 cards, 1 videos).

SMR I.0003 · Understand the relationships between science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.123 questions · 13 materials · 28 cards · 1 videosPartially covered

Official competencyMatching 240 topicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Analyze the interrelationships of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in the Earth and space sciences.NoneCoverage gap identified0000No matching topic found in the study guide.
B. Evaluate scientific research and the validity of coverage of science in the media.S.Read Scientific Publication; S.Ethics and PublishingPartially covered3220Partial coverage by 2 topics (3 questions, 2 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
C. Analyze social, economic, and ethical issues associated with technological and scientific developments.S.Careers in Science; S.Ethics; S.Ethics and Regulation; S.Decision Making; S.Healthy and Unhealthy Lifestyles; S.Human Populations Impact the Earth; S.Renewable vs Nonrenewable; S.Types of Power SourcesCovered898111Covered by 8 topics (89 questions, 8 materials, 11 cards, 1 videos).
D. Demonstrate knowledge of maps, models, and other geospatial technologies used to present scientific information.S.Models; S.Topographic Maps; S.Weather ToolsCovered313150Covered by 3 topics (31 questions, 3 materials, 15 cards, 0 videos).

Geology (Domain II)Partially covered

SMR II.0004 · Understand historical geology.122 questions · 12 materials · 54 cards · 0 videosPartially covered

Official competencyMatching 240 topicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of relative dating and the use of technology in absolute dating to develop the geologic time scale.S.Stratigraphy; S.Earth's History; S.Radioactivity; S.Half-life Calculations; S.Applications of RadioactivityCovered545260Covered by 5 topics (54 questions, 5 materials, 26 cards, 0 videos).
B. Recognize causes and consequences of major events in Earth's geologic history.S.Earth's History - Key Events; S.Earth's History - Physical ChangesCovered122150Covered by 2 topics (12 questions, 2 materials, 15 cards, 0 videos).
C. Demonstrate knowledge of Earth's origin and the development of the atmosphere and hydrosphere.S.Earth's History - Physical ChangesPartially covered4160Partial coverage by 1 topic (4 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
D. Demonstrate knowledge of the origin and history of life, the fossil record, the process of fossil formation, and the theory of evolution.S.Earth's History; S.Earth's History - Key Events; S.Formation of Fossils; S.Evolutionary History - Origin Theories; S.Earth's History - Evolutionary History; S.Macroevolution Evidence; Human EvolutionCovered747360Covered by 7 topics (74 questions, 7 materials, 36 cards, 0 videos).

SMR II.0005 · Understand plate tectonics and the rock cycle.86 questions · 6 materials · 55 cards · 1 videosCovered

Official competencyMatching 240 topicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Analyze the landforms and geologic features that result from tectonic processes, and the evidence and methods used to establish the theory of plate tectonics.S.Volcanoes; S.Earthquakes; S.Tectonic Plate Theory; S.Tectonics and Earthquake PatternsCovered584450Covered by 4 topics (58 questions, 4 materials, 45 cards, 0 videos).
B. Demonstrate knowledge of the causes, characteristics, and impacts of different types of volcanic activity and the nature of erupted materials.S.VolcanoesCovered151190Covered by 1 topic (15 questions, 1 materials, 19 cards, 0 videos).
C. Demonstrate knowledge of the causes, characteristics, and impacts of the geologic faulting and folding associated with earthquakes and mountain building.S.Earthquakes; S.Tectonic Plate Theory; S.Advanced EarthquakesCovered423290Covered by 3 topics (42 questions, 3 materials, 29 cards, 0 videos).
D. Analyze the physical and chemical processes involved in the formation of metamorphic, igneous, and sedimentary rocks within the rock cycle.S.Rock CycleCovered24181Covered by 1 topic (24 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 1 videos).

SMR II.0006 · Understand Earth materials, geologic resources, and Earth's internal structure.64 questions · 7 materials · 47 cards · 1 videosCovered

Official competencyMatching 240 topicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of the origin, characteristics, and classification of minerals, soil types, and rocks.S.Properties of Rocks and Minerals; S.Soil; S.Types of SoilCovered343290Covered by 3 topics (34 questions, 3 materials, 29 cards, 0 videos).
B. Analyze the formation, extraction, and use of geologic resources.S.Resource ExtractionCovered7150Covered by 1 topic (7 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos).
C. Demonstrate knowledge of Earth's interior and the evidence and methods used to study Earth's internal structure.S.Structures of Earth; S.Advanced Structures of Earth; S.Structures of Earth - EvidenceCovered233131Covered by 3 topics (23 questions, 3 materials, 13 cards, 1 videos).

SMR II.0007 · Understand the processes of weathering, erosion, and deposition.61 questions · 5 materials · 47 cards · 1 videosCovered

Official competencyMatching 240 topicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Analyze the processes and effects of physical and chemical weathering.S.Constructive and Destructive Processes; S.Weathering and Erosion - Volcanic Islands and GlaciersCovered412261Covered by 2 topics (41 questions, 2 materials, 26 cards, 1 videos).
B. Analyze erosional processes and the impacts of erosion.S.Constructive and Destructive Processes; S.Weathering and Erosion - Volcanic Islands and GlaciersCovered412261Covered by 2 topics (41 questions, 2 materials, 26 cards, 1 videos).
C. Demonstrate knowledge of the physical properties of alpine and continental glaciers and the ways in which they alter the landscape.S.Weathering and Erosion - Volcanic Islands and Glaciers; S.IceCovered182150Covered by 2 topics (18 questions, 2 materials, 15 cards, 0 videos).
D. Demonstrate knowledge of the processes of sediment transport and deposition in aquatic and terrestrial environments.S.Constructive and Destructive Processes; S.River FeaturesCovered362281Covered by 2 topics (36 questions, 2 materials, 28 cards, 1 videos).
E. Demonstrate knowledge of how climatic and geographic conditions affect the landscape.S.Watershed EcologyCovered7150Covered by 1 topic (7 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos).

Oceanography and Freshwater Systems (Domain III)Partially covered

SMR III.0008 · Understand the hydrologic cycle and its interaction with other Earth systems.80 questions · 9 materials · 77 cards · 1 videosCovered

Official competencyMatching 240 topicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Analyze the physical properties of water, including energy changes that occur in the hydrologic cycle.S.Water Cycle; S.Water Cycle - Physical Processes Driving; S.Properties of Water; S.Hydrologic AnalysisCovered414301Covered by 4 topics (41 questions, 4 materials, 30 cards, 1 videos).
B. Demonstrate knowledge of the chemical properties of water and how water chemistry changes during the hydrologic cycle.S.Water Cycle; S.Properties of Water; S.Measuring Water Quality; S.Acid RainCovered434291Covered by 4 topics (43 questions, 4 materials, 29 cards, 1 videos).
C. Analyze the interrelationship of the hydrosphere and other Earth systems.S.Clouds; S.Weather vs Climate - El Nino and Jet Stream; S.Air Masses and Ocean CurrentsCovered303330Covered by 3 topics (30 questions, 3 materials, 33 cards, 0 videos).

SMR III.0009 · Understand the composition, structure, and properties of oceans.55 questions · 8 materials · 57 cards · 0 videosPartially covered

Official competencyMatching 240 topicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of the origins and physical structures of ocean basins and different types of coastlines.S.Bodies of Water; S.Ocean Features; S.Ocean Zones; S.Shoreline Features; S.Island FeaturesCovered345470Covered by 5 topics (34 questions, 5 materials, 47 cards, 0 videos).
B. Analyze the physical and chemical characteristics of ocean water.S.Salt WaterPartially covered7110Partial coverage by 1 topic (7 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
C. Demonstrate knowledge of the causes and characteristics of ocean currents, waves, and tides.S.Tides; S.Ocean WavesCovered14290Covered by 2 topics (14 questions, 2 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos).
D. Analyze the characteristics, formation, management, and use of geologic and biological marine resources.NoneCoverage gap identified0000No matching topic found in the study guide.

SMR III.0010 · Understand the characteristics and properties of freshwater systems.25 questions · 3 materials · 12 cards · 0 videosCovered

Official competencyMatching 240 topicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of the properties of surface water, factors affecting stream flow, the dynamics of drainage systems, and the functions of watersheds.S.Surface Water vs GroundwaterCovered9140Covered by 1 topic (9 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos).
B. Demonstrate knowledge of the properties of groundwater, including factors affecting the movement, infiltration, extraction, and quality of groundwater resources.S.Runoff and Infiltration; S.Surface Water vs Groundwater; S.Porosity and PermeabilityCovered253120Covered by 3 topics (25 questions, 3 materials, 12 cards, 0 videos).
C. Analyze geologic factors affecting the availability, use, and management of freshwater resources.S.Porosity and PermeabilityCovered10140Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos).

The Atmosphere, Weather, and Climate (Domain IV)Partially covered

SMR IV.0011 · Understand the structure and properties of the atmosphere.99 questions · 10 materials · 38 cards · 2 videosCovered

Official competencyMatching 240 topicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Recognize the characteristics of the different layers and components of the atmosphere, and the role of gases and particulates in regulating conditions on Earth.S.Composition and Layers of the Atmosphere; S.Effects of Atmosphere on Life; S.Global Warming; S.Ozone DepletionCovered514191Covered by 4 topics (51 questions, 4 materials, 19 cards, 1 videos).
B. Analyze global wind patterns in relation to the Coriolis effect and the differential heating of Earth's surface by the sun.S.Weather vs Climate - El Nino and Jet Stream; S.Air Masses and Ocean Currents; S.Uneven Heating of Earth; S.Global WindsCovered284171Covered by 4 topics (28 questions, 4 materials, 17 cards, 1 videos).
C. Demonstrate knowledge of the causes and effects of changes to the atmosphere due to human or natural activities.S.Global Warming; S.Ozone Depletion; S.Effects of Natural Phenomena on Climate; S.Human Influences on ClimateCovered504100Covered by 4 topics (50 questions, 4 materials, 10 cards, 0 videos).

SMR IV.0012 · Understand the characteristics of weather systems and the circumstances under which various weather conditions develop.81 questions · 8 materials · 64 cards · 1 videosCovered

Official competencyMatching 240 topicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of the characteristics of high- and low-pressure systems, air masses, and fronts and the conditions under which these weather phenomena typically form.S.Air Masses and Ocean Currents; S.Weather ChartsCovered282170Covered by 2 topics (28 questions, 2 materials, 17 cards, 0 videos).
B. Analyze the conditions that produce different types of clouds, precipitation, and weather, including the effects of the subtropical and polar front jet streams.S.Clouds; S.Weather vs Climate - El Nino and Jet Stream; S.Composition and Layers of the Atmosphere; S.Types of PrecipitationCovered424401Covered by 4 topics (42 questions, 4 materials, 40 cards, 1 videos).
C. Analyze the effects of geography and/or bodies of water on weather formation, including severe weather.S.Air Masses and Ocean Currents; S.Effects of Land on ClimateCovered222150Covered by 2 topics (22 questions, 2 materials, 15 cards, 0 videos).
D. Apply knowledge of weather maps and symbols and the instruments used to measure and predict weather conditions.S.Weather Charts; S.Weather PointsCovered17290Covered by 2 topics (17 questions, 2 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos).

SMR IV.0013 · Understand Earth's climate systems and the factors that influence climate.49 questions · 6 materials · 19 cards · 0 videosPartially covered

Official competencyMatching 240 topicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of the biotic and abiotic characteristics of Earth's major climate regions.S.Major Biomes; S.Major Biomes - Animal Adaptations; S.Major Biomes - Plant AdaptationsCovered16380Covered by 3 topics (16 questions, 3 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos).
B. Analyze the geographic factors and conditions responsible for unique climate phenomena, such as monsoons and the El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO).S.Weather vs Climate - El Nino and Jet StreamPartially covered3150Partial coverage by 1 topic (3 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
C. Demonstrate knowledge of the causes and effects of current and past changes in global climate, including the interrelationships of ecosystems, the hydrologic cycle, and human society.S.Global Warming; S.Human Influences on ClimateCovered30260Covered by 2 topics (30 questions, 2 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos).

Astronomy (Domain V)Partially covered

SMR V.0014 · Understand the characteristics of stars, galaxies, and the universe.76 questions · 10 materials · 118 cards · 0 videosCovered

Official competencyMatching 240 topicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of the sun's structure, life cycle, and energy production.S.The Sun; S.The Sun - Advanced; S.FusionCovered213320Covered by 3 topics (21 questions, 3 materials, 32 cards, 0 videos).
B. Demonstrate knowledge of the characteristics and evolution of different types of stars, including the process of nucleosynthesis.S.Fusion; S.Star Characteristics; S.Star Life CycleCovered323290Covered by 3 topics (32 questions, 3 materials, 29 cards, 0 videos).
C. Recognize the characteristics of the Milky Way Galaxy and other types of galaxies.S.Advanced Solar System Components; S.Types of GalaxiesCovered82260Covered by 2 topics (8 questions, 2 materials, 26 cards, 0 videos).
D. Analyze theories of the origin and nature of the universe and the characteristics of black holes, dark matter, supernovas, and quasars.S.Origin of the Universe; S.Advanced Origin of UniverseCovered132280Covered by 2 topics (13 questions, 2 materials, 28 cards, 0 videos).
E. Demonstrate knowledge of the technology used to explore, and the evidence used to understand, the solar system, stars, extrasolar planets, galaxies, and the universe.S.Advanced Origin of Universe; S.Space Science TechnologyCovered102300Covered by 2 topics (10 questions, 2 materials, 30 cards, 0 videos).

SMR V.0015 · Understand characteristics and components of the solar system.43 questions · 6 materials · 62 cards · 0 videosPartially covered

Official competencyMatching 240 topicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of the origin and structure of the solar system.S.Advanced Solar System Components; S.Orbits of the Solar System; S.Origin of the Solar SystemCovered143250Covered by 3 topics (14 questions, 3 materials, 25 cards, 0 videos).
B. Recognize the position and characteristics of the planets and their satellites.S.Components of the Solar SystemCovered211300Covered by 1 topic (21 questions, 1 materials, 30 cards, 0 videos).
C. Recognize the origin and characteristics of comets, asteroids, and meteors.S.Properties of Celestial BodiesCovered61210Covered by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 21 cards, 0 videos).
D. Recognize the physical and mathematical models and laws that describe the motions of objects in the solar system.S.Kepler's Laws of OrbitPartially covered2100Partial coverage by 1 topic (2 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.

SMR V.0016 · Understand the sun-moon-Earth system and the apparent motions of stars and planets.72 questions · 5 materials · 34 cards · 2 videosPartially covered

Official competencyMatching 240 topicsAlignmentQsMatsCardsVidsNotes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of the physical characteristics of the moon and Earth, including theories on their origin and the evidence used to support those theories.NoneCoverage gap identified0000No matching topic found in the study guide.
B. Analyze the interactions of the sun, moon, and Earth, including the effects of these interactions on Earth systems and the evolution of the sun-moon-Earth system.S.Night/Day and Time Zones; S.Seasons; S.Lunar Cycle; S.EclipsesCovered704332Covered by 4 topics (70 questions, 4 materials, 33 cards, 2 videos).
C. Analyze the apparent motions of stars and planets relative to Earth, and the characteristics of the celestial sphere.S.Constellations and NavigationPartially covered2110Partial coverage by 1 topic (2 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.

How 240 Creates The NES Earth and Space Science (307) 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.

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.

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 Earth and Space Science.

Generic prep

  • Covers broad subject areas without structure
  • No clear connection to the official exam framework
  • Practice questions may not reflect the real test format
  • May not update when official standards change
  • Can be helpful for quick, broad review

240 test-aligned NES 307 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 Earth and Space Science Study Guide

The questions teacher candidates ask us most often about the NES Earth and Space Science study guide.

Is 240 a good study guide for NES Earth and Space Science?

240 is a strong option because the guide is built around the official exam framework and shows detailed alignment by SMR and competency.

How closely does 240 align to the NES 307 exam?

This guide is 90% 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.

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