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 NES Elementary Education: Subtest II 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 Elementary Education: Subtest II (103) 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 103 study guide
- Built around the official exam framework
- Organized by the competencies actually used on the exam
- Shows exactly what is covered and where depth is partial
- Includes aligned questions, flashcards, study materials, and videos
- Helps candidates study what is actually tested instead of broad generic content
Transparent coverage is a strength. We show where the guide is strong, where depth is partial, and where a gap has been identified so you can make an informed study decision.
How to Read This Alignment Review
3Domains
44Competencies reviewed
100%Test-aligned
44Covered
0Partially 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.
Mathematics (Domain I)Covered
SMR I.0001 · Understand concepts of numeration, number sense, and mathematical operations.594 questions · 35 materials · 68 cards · 21 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Demonstrate knowledge of properties of numbers and number systems, operations, place value, rounding, comparing and ordering numbers, and equivalent representations of numbers. | M.Structure of Number Systems; M.Place Value; M.Composition and Decomposition of Multi-Digit Numbers; M.Rounding; M.Order Real Numbers by Magnitude; M.Comparing Fractions | Covered | 131 | 6 | 15 | 5 | Covered by 6 topics (131 questions, 6 materials, 15 cards, 5 videos). |
| B. Use a variety of models to represent numbers and operations. | M.Alternate Representations of Problems; M.Whole Number Operations on a Number Line; M.Models for Multiplication and Division | Covered | 18 | 3 | 4 | 2 | Covered by 3 topics (18 questions, 3 materials, 4 cards, 2 videos). |
| C. Demonstrate knowledge of prime and composite numbers, divisibility rules, least common multiple, and greatest common factor. | M.Prime and Composite Numbers; M.Factors; M.Prime Factorization; M.Divisibility Rules | Covered | 78 | 4 | 10 | 3 | Covered by 4 topics (78 questions, 4 materials, 10 cards, 3 videos). |
| D. Solve problems involving integers, rational numbers, fractions, decimals, ratios, proportions, percent, exponents, and scientific notation. | M.Prioritizing Relevant and Missing Information; M.Exponential and Scientific Notation; M.Order of Operations; M.Fraction, Decimal, Percentage Conversions; M.Ratios; M.Unit Rates; M.Fraction Operations - Multiply and Divide; M.Fraction Operations - Mixed Numbers; M.Fraction Operations - Add and Subtract; M.Ratios, Proportions, Percents; M.Proportional Reasoning - Word Problems | Covered | 213 | 11 | 26 | 6 | Covered by 11 topics (213 questions, 11 materials, 26 cards, 6 videos). |
| E. Apply knowledge of basic concepts of probability, including the use of simulations and counting procedures to estimate probabilities. | M.Probability; M.Probability Models; M.Probability Simulations; M.Expressing Probabilities; M.Sample Spaces to Determine Probabilities; M.Simple and Compound Events; M.Fundamental Counting Principle | Covered | 93 | 7 | 13 | 4 | Covered by 7 topics (93 questions, 7 materials, 13 cards, 4 videos). |
| F. Demonstrate knowledge of computation, including the use of mental math and estimation. | M.Reasonableness of Results; M.Mental Math and Estimation; M.Operation and Algorithm Connections; M.Order of Operations; M.Order of Operations - Grouping | Covered | 86 | 5 | 8 | 2 | Covered by 5 topics (86 questions, 5 materials, 8 cards, 2 videos). |
SMR I.0002 · Understand mathematical reasoning and problem solving, communication and representation, and data analysis.376 questions · 26 materials · 59 cards · 9 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Demonstrate knowledge of mathematical reasoning and proofs. | M.Formal vs Informal Reasoning; M.Conclusions from Premises; M.Inductive vs Deductive Reasoning; M.Using Structure to Analyze Complex Problems; M.Abstract and Quantitative Reasoning; M.Evaluating Truth of Statements; M.Proofs | Covered | 43 | 7 | 11 | 1 | Covered by 7 topics (43 questions, 7 materials, 11 cards, 1 videos). |
| B. Apply knowledge of various strategies and procedures used in problem-solving situations. | M.Selecting Appropriate Solution Strategies; M.Use Variety in Problem Structure; M.Counting Techniques; M.Connecting Situations with Operations | Covered | 41 | 4 | 1 | 0 | Covered by 4 topics (41 questions, 4 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos). |
| C. Translate between verbal descriptions and mathematical language and symbols to express quantitative relationships and to solve problems. | M.Teaching Mathematical Vocabulary; M.Variety of Representations; M.Representations of Fractions in Word Problems; M.Symbolic to Verbal; M.Verbal to Symbolic Expression - Basic | Covered | 85 | 5 | 18 | 3 | Covered by 5 topics (85 questions, 5 materials, 18 cards, 3 videos). |
| D. Apply knowledge of a variety of diagrams, models, charts, manipulatives, and other tools used to represent mathematical concepts and real-world situations. | M.Manipulatives for Young Children; M.Graphs and Plots | Covered | 48 | 2 | 13 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (48 questions, 2 materials, 13 cards, 1 videos). |
| E. Apply knowledge of statistical measures (e.g., mean, median, mode, range, frequency distribution) to describe and analyze data. | M.Statistical Questions; M.Statistical Experiments; M.Normal Distribution; M.Measures of Center and Range; M.Describing Data Patterns and Outliers | Covered | 99 | 5 | 13 | 1 | Covered by 5 topics (99 questions, 5 materials, 13 cards, 1 videos). |
| F. Apply knowledge of data interpretation and of methods for displaying data in a variety of formats. | M.Graphs and Plots; M.Data Analysis and Interpretation; M.Bivariate Data Analysis; M.Choosing a Graph or Plot | Covered | 92 | 4 | 17 | 4 | Covered by 4 topics (92 questions, 4 materials, 17 cards, 4 videos). |
SMR I.0003 · Understand basic concepts of patterns, algebra, and functions.277 questions · 17 materials · 40 cards · 11 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Recognize patterns in numbers, shapes, and data and ways to use variables, expressions, equations, and inequalities to communicate quantitative relationships. | M.Selecting Appropriate Solution Strategies - Look for a Pattern; M.Dependent and Independent Variables; M.Patterns - Developing an Expression; M.Types of Sequences; M.Creating Formulas for Patterns - Arithmetic and Geometric | Covered | 75 | 5 | 9 | 3 | Covered by 5 topics (75 questions, 5 materials, 9 cards, 3 videos). |
| B. Apply knowledge of patterns to model real-world situations and make predictions. | M.Patterns - Developing a Linear Formula; M.Creating Formulas for Patterns - Arithmetic and Geometric | Covered | 46 | 2 | 4 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (46 questions, 2 materials, 4 cards, 2 videos). |
| C. Recognize types and properties of functions. | M.Forms of Equations; M.Relation and Function Representations; M.Understanding Linear Functions and Their Properties | Covered | 61 | 3 | 16 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (61 questions, 3 materials, 16 cards, 1 videos). |
| D. Use algebraic concepts to solve equations and real-world problems. | M.Verbal to Symbolic Linear Equations; M.Equivalence of Expressions - To Simplify; M.Linear Expression Evaluation; M.Parallel and Perpendicular Lines and Formulas; M.Line of Best Fit; M.Linear Equation Word Problems; M.Solve for x - Linear; M.Interpreting Inequalities | Covered | 124 | 8 | 18 | 6 | Covered by 8 topics (124 questions, 8 materials, 18 cards, 6 videos). |
SMR I.0004 · Understand basic concepts of geometry and measurement.447 questions · 29 materials · 95 cards · 18 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Recognize types and properties of lines, angles, and two- and three-dimensional shapes, including symmetry, congruence, and similarity. | M.Proportional Reasoning - 2D Shapes; M.Angles in Triangles; M.Measurements in Circles; M.Attributes of Three Dimensional Figures; M.Pyramids and Prisms; M.Types of Prisms; M.Geometric Constructions; M.Combine and Dissect 2D Figures; M.Points, Lines, Planes, Angles; M.Attributes of Polygons - Advanced | Covered | 104 | 10 | 50 | 7 | Covered by 10 topics (104 questions, 10 materials, 50 cards, 7 videos). |
| B. Solve problems involving perimeter, area, volume, geometric transformations, measurement, scale, and coordinate systems. | M.Area and Perimeter of Polygons; M.Surface Area in 3D; M.Volume in 3D; M.Dimensional Changes Affecting Area and Volume; M.Pythagorean Theorem; M.Proportional Reasoning - Scale Drawings; M.The Coordinate Plane; M.Area and Perimeter of Rectangles and Triangles; M.Area and Perimeter of Polygons - Irregular Shapes; M.Rigid Transformations; M.Non-Rigid Transformations | Covered | 211 | 11 | 23 | 6 | Covered by 11 topics (211 questions, 11 materials, 23 cards, 6 videos). |
| C. Use geometric concepts to solve real-world problems. | M.Nets | Covered | 17 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (17 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos). |
| D. Identify and use appropriate measurement units, tools, and measurement techniques in various situations. | M.United States Money; M.Calculating Elapsed Time; M.Measurement Principles; M.Measurement Tools; M.Choosing Appropriate Units | Covered | 76 | 5 | 19 | 3 | Covered by 5 topics (76 questions, 5 materials, 19 cards, 3 videos). |
| E. Convert measurements within the metric and customary systems. | M.Metric System; M.Converting Units - Proportional Reasoning | Covered | 39 | 2 | 5 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (39 questions, 2 materials, 5 cards, 2 videos). |
Science (Domain II)Covered
SMR II.0005 · Understand fundamental concepts of the life sciences.434 questions · 38 materials · 169 cards · 17 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Apply knowledge of the characteristics and life processes of plants, animals, and other living organisms. | S.Requirements of Life; S.Carbon-Based Life; S.Photosynthesis; S.Cells, Tissues, Organs, Organ Systems; S.Cell Theory; S.Parts of the Cell; S.Plant Systems Basics; S.Homeostasis | Covered | 97 | 8 | 37 | 5 | Covered by 8 topics (97 questions, 8 materials, 37 cards, 5 videos). |
| B. Demonstrate knowledge of the multiple ways in which organisms are ordered and classified and how species change over time. | S.Eukaryotic vs Prokaryotic; S.Major Groups of Eukaryotic Life; S.Environmental vs Genetic; S.Learned vs Inherited; S.Mutations; S.Adaptations; S.Populations Change (Not Individuals); S.Natural Selection; S.Artificial Selection | Covered | 110 | 9 | 43 | 3 | Covered by 9 topics (110 questions, 9 materials, 43 cards, 3 videos). |
| C. Recognize the life cycles and reproductive patterns of common organisms and the application of basic principles of heredity to the transmission of traits from one generation to the next. | S.Growth and Development; S.Plant Growth; S.Metamorphosis; S.Asexual Reproduction; S.Sexual Reproduction; S.Mitosis; S.Somatic vs Sex Cells; S.Structure of DNA and RNA; S.Dominant vs Recessive; S.Punnett Squares | Covered | 105 | 10 | 48 | 3 | Covered by 10 topics (105 questions, 10 materials, 48 cards, 3 videos). |
| D. Analyze the interactions between organisms and their environment and the characteristics of and interactions between populations of organisms in an ecological community. | S.Ecological Organization; S.Habitats and Niches; S.Roles In Food Chain; S.Food Webs; S.Stimuli; S.Types of Relationships; S.Competition; S.Infectious Agents; S.Environment as a Pressure; S.Wildlife Impact on Ecosystems; S.Human Impact on Ecosystems | Covered | 122 | 11 | 50 | 6 | Covered by 11 topics (122 questions, 11 materials, 50 cards, 6 videos). |
SMR II.0006 · Understand fundamental concepts of the physical, Earth, and space sciences.820 questions · 56 materials · 418 cards · 23 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Demonstrate knowledge of the composition, structure, and properties of matter and the difference between 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.Electrical Conductor vs Insulator; S.Mixtures and Solutions; S.Chemical vs Physical Changes; S.Conservation of Matter and Energy | Covered | 136 | 12 | 85 | 6 | Covered by 12 topics (136 questions, 12 materials, 85 cards, 6 videos). |
| B. Recognize the effects of various types of forces on objects in given situations and the properties and uses of simple machines and tools. | S.Motion Terms; S.Motion Graphs; S.Gravity; S.Electromagnetic Forces; S.Force and Newton's Laws; S.Simple Machines - Basic | Covered | 97 | 6 | 38 | 3 | Covered by 6 topics (97 questions, 6 materials, 38 cards, 3 videos). |
| C. Apply knowledge of the properties of light, sound, electricity, and magnetism. | S.Properties of Waves; S.Sound; S.Light; S.Reflection and Refraction; S.Electricity and Magnetism; S.Circuits | Covered | 105 | 6 | 52 | 0 | Covered by 6 topics (105 questions, 6 materials, 52 cards, 0 videos). |
| D. Recognize forms of energy, energy sources, and processes of energy transfer and transformations. | S.Types of Energy; S.Heat vs Temperature; S.Conduction, Convection, and Radiation; S.Conservation of Energy Calculations | Covered | 65 | 4 | 15 | 2 | Covered by 4 topics (65 questions, 4 materials, 15 cards, 2 videos). |
| E. Recognize types and characteristics of objects in the solar system and universe and the effects of the relative positions and motions of the sun, Earth, and moon. | S.Night/Day and Time Zones; S.Seasons; S.Tides; S.Lunar Cycle; S.Eclipses; S.Components of the Solar System; S.The Sun; S.Properties of Celestial Bodies | Covered | 115 | 8 | 98 | 2 | Covered by 8 topics (115 questions, 8 materials, 98 cards, 2 videos). |
| F. Apply knowledge of the composition, structure, landforms, and processes of Earth's geologic system and how it interacts with other Earth systems. | S.Structures of Earth; S.Properties of Rocks and Minerals; S.Soil; S.Constructive and Destructive Processes; S.Earthquakes; S.Rock Cycle; S.Carbon Cycle | Covered | 117 | 7 | 60 | 4 | Covered by 7 topics (117 questions, 7 materials, 60 cards, 4 videos). |
| G. Apply knowledge of the composition, structure, and processes of Earth's hydrologic and atmospheric systems, including weather and climate, and how these systems interact with each other and with Earth's geologic system. | S.Surface Water vs Groundwater; S.Bodies of Water; S.Composition and Layers of the Atmosphere; S.Clouds; S.Water Cycle; S.Nitrogen Cycle; S.Weather vs Climate; S.Uneven Heating of Earth; S.Air Masses and Ocean Currents; S.Human Influences on Climate; S.Global Warming | Covered | 148 | 11 | 84 | 5 | Covered by 11 topics (148 questions, 11 materials, 84 cards, 5 videos). |
| H. Identify types and characteristics of renewable and nonrenewable natural resources, their uses, and their management. | S.Human Populations Impact the Earth; S.Renewable vs Nonrenewable | Covered | 37 | 2 | 6 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (37 questions, 2 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos). |
SMR II.0007 · Understand the nature of science and the processes of scientific inquiry.387 questions · 30 materials · 208 cards · 6 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Recognize the basic tenets, goals, and values of science and how scientific knowledge develops and changes over time. | S.Ethics; S.Decision Making; S.Key History of Science; S.Key History of Space Science; S.Safety Rules; S.Activities For Inquiry; S.Critical Thinking; S.Assessment and Instruction - Science | Covered | 136 | 8 | 137 | 3 | Covered by 8 topics (136 questions, 8 materials, 137 cards, 3 videos). |
| B. Recognize connections between and unifying themes among the life sciences, physical sciences, and Earth and space sciences, including the relationship between form and function, the nature of cycles and systems, the conservation of energy and matter, the use of models, and ways to organize and classify information. | S.Properties of Systems; S.Change In Systems; S.Form and Function; S.Change, Constancy, and Measurements; S.Evidence, Models, and Explanation; S.Models | Covered | 75 | 6 | 18 | 0 | Covered by 6 topics (75 questions, 6 materials, 18 cards, 0 videos). |
| C. Apply knowledge of the scientific method, including the design of scientific investigations, systematic observation, and controlled experimentation. | S.Scientific Method; S.Background Research; S.Prediction, Explanation, Theory, Fact; S.Experimental Investigations; S.Repeatability | Covered | 72 | 5 | 16 | 3 | Covered by 5 topics (72 questions, 5 materials, 16 cards, 3 videos). |
| D. Apply knowledge of strategies for collecting, measuring, recording, summarizing, analyzing, and representing scientific data. | S.Change, Constancy, and Measurements; S.Best Chart for the Data; S.Read Scientific Publication; S.Choose Appropriate Equipment; S.Precision vs Accuracy; S.Error In Measurements; S.Proper Data Analysis; S.Proper Handling - Chemicals; S.Proper Tool Use | Covered | 76 | 9 | 48 | 0 | Covered by 9 topics (76 questions, 9 materials, 48 cards, 0 videos). |
| E. Analyze the relationships between science, mathematics, technology, and society. | S.Interdisciplinary Connections; S.Careers in Science; S.Healthy and Unhealthy Lifestyles | Covered | 39 | 3 | 3 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (39 questions, 3 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos). |
The Arts, Health, and Fitness (Domain III)Covered
SMR III.0008 · Understand basic elements of the arts and fundamental concepts of health and fitness.422 questions · 37 materials · 202 cards · 1 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Identify basic terms and elements associated with music, drama, dance, and the visual arts. | FA.Elements of Dance; FA.Music Vocabulary; FA.Elements of Art; FA.Principles of Art | Covered | 64 | 4 | 62 | 0 | Covered by 4 topics (64 questions, 4 materials, 62 cards, 0 videos). |
| B. Recognize basic techniques, tools, and processes for creating and performing works in the various arts. | FA.Technical Elements - Environment; FA.Technical Elements - Characterization; FA.Art Techniques | Covered | 21 | 3 | 2 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (21 questions, 3 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos). |
| C. Demonstrate knowledge of the ways the arts can be used as a form of communication, self-expression, and social expression and the connections between the art disciplines, other disciplines, and everyday life. | FA.Dance Analysis; FA.Purpose of Music; FA.Diverse Styles of Music and Dance; FA.US Culture in Music; FA.Music Analysis; FA.Music Cross-Curricular; FA.Perception - Theatre; FA.Theatre Analysis; FA.Theatre Cross-Curricular; FA.Relating Theatre to History; FA.Art in Various Cultures; FA.Perception of Visual Arts; FA.Critical Thinking - Analysis; FA.Interdisciplinary Connections | Covered | 97 | 14 | 19 | 0 | Covered by 14 topics (97 questions, 14 materials, 19 cards, 0 videos). |
| D. Identify the basic structures and functions of the human body, common diseases and illnesses and how to prevent or treat them, and nutritional principles that influence health and development. | S.Human Body Systems; PE.Common Health Conditions; PE.Common Diseases; PE.Healthy Lifestyles; PE.Healthy Diet; PE.Negative Impacts on Health | Covered | 114 | 6 | 53 | 1 | Covered by 6 topics (114 questions, 6 materials, 53 cards, 1 videos). |
| E. Apply knowledge of principles, practices, and skills for maintaining physical, mental, and emotional health and safety and for reducing health risks. | PE.Eating Disorders; PE.Drug Abuses; PE.Types of Abuse; PE.Stress and Relaxation | Covered | 40 | 4 | 23 | 0 | Covered by 4 topics (40 questions, 4 materials, 23 cards, 0 videos). |
| F. Identify the components of health-related fitness and appropriate activities to promote the development of locomotor, nonlocomotor, manipulative, and perceptual awareness skills in children. | PE.Movement Concepts; PE.Movement Skills; PE.Development of Motor Skills; PE.Exercise Principles; PE.Monitoring Fitness Levels; PE.Components of Physical Fitness (Elementary) | Covered | 86 | 6 | 44 | 0 | Covered by 6 topics (86 questions, 6 materials, 44 cards, 0 videos). |
How 240 Creates The NES Elementary Education: Subtest II (103) 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 NES Elementary Education: Subtest II.
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 103 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 Elementary Education: Subtest II Study Guide
The questions teacher candidates ask us most often about the NES Elementary Education: Subtest II study guide.
Is 240 a good study guide for NES Elementary Education: Subtest II?
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 103 exam?
This guide is 100% 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.