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 OAE Middle Grades 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 OAE Middle Grades Science (029) 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 OAE 029 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
4Domains
72Competencies reviewed
99%Test-aligned
71Covered
1Partially covered
0Gaps
- CoveredCompetency is comprehensively supported by the guide.
- Partially coveredCore content is covered, but some depth gaps remain.
- Coverage gap identifiedA content gap has been identified.
This study guide is based on the current official exam framework. We review and update alignment whenever the official framework changes so candidates are always studying current, accurate material.
Nature of Science (Domain I)Partially covered
SMR I.0001 · Understand principles and procedures of scientific inquiry. (7%)244 questions · 22 materials · 107 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.Background Research; S.Prediction, Explanation, Theory, Fact; S.Experimental Investigations; S.Non-Experimental Investigations; S.Repeatability; S.Best Chart for the Data; S.Choose Appropriate Equipment - Advanced | Covered | 98 | 8 | 77 | 3 | Covered by 8 topics (98 questions, 8 materials, 77 cards, 3 videos). |
| b. Recognize methods and criteria for collecting, organizing, analyzing, and presenting scientific data. | S.Change, Constancy, and Measurements; S.Evidence, Models, and Explanation; S.Models; S.Scientific Method; S.Prediction, Explanation, Theory, Fact; S.Experimental Investigations; S.Non-Experimental Investigations; S.Best Chart for the Data; S.Significant Figures; S.Precision vs Accuracy; S.Error In Measurements; S.Proper Data Analysis; S.Trend Analysis of Scatterplots | Covered | 158 | 13 | 47 | 3 | Covered by 13 topics (158 questions, 13 materials, 47 cards, 3 videos). |
| c. Recognize the evidential basis of scientific claims. | S.Evidence, Models, and Explanation; S.Prediction, Explanation, Theory, Fact | Covered | 19 | 2 | 7 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (19 questions, 2 materials, 7 cards, 1 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of safety procedures and hazards associated with scientific investigations. | S.Safety Rules; S.Emergency Procedures; S.Proper Handling - Chemicals; S.Proper Handling - Organisms Legal Codes; S.Proper Tool Use | Covered | 55 | 5 | 13 | 1 | Covered by 5 topics (55 questions, 5 materials, 13 cards, 1 videos). |
| e. Demonstrate knowledge of the materials, equipment, and technology used in the sciences. | S.Proper Tool Use; S.Various Tools; S.Choose Appropriate Equipment - Advanced | Covered | 19 | 3 | 50 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (19 questions, 3 materials, 50 cards, 0 videos). |
| f. Apply basic mathematical procedures in reporting data and solving problems in the sciences. | S.Significant Figures; S.Precision vs Accuracy; S.Error In Measurements; S.Proper Data Analysis; S.Trend Analysis of Scatterplots | Covered | 47 | 5 | 16 | 0 | Covered by 5 topics (47 questions, 5 materials, 16 cards, 0 videos). |
SMR I.0002 · Understand the history and nature of science. (7%)168 questions · 13 materials · 144 cards · 3 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of the historical development of major scientific ideas. | S.Key History of Science; S.Key History of Space Science; S.Diversity in Science History | Covered | 32 | 3 | 109 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (32 questions, 3 materials, 109 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Demonstrate knowledge of current major theories, models, and concepts in physical science, life science, and Earth and space science. | S.Properties of Systems; S.Change In Systems; S.Form and Function; S.Limits of Science; S.Key History of Science; S.Key History of Space Science | Covered | 70 | 6 | 122 | 0 | Covered by 6 topics (70 questions, 6 materials, 122 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Identify unifying themes, principles, and relationships that connect the different branches of the sciences with each other and with other STEM fields. | S.Properties of Systems; S.Change In Systems; S.Form and Function; S.Limits of Science; S.Variety of Methods Across Science; S.Interdisciplinary Connections | Covered | 59 | 6 | 16 | 0 | Covered by 6 topics (59 questions, 6 materials, 16 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of the nature of science as a system of inquiry. | S.Scientific Method; S.Experimental Investigations; S.Non-Experimental Investigations; S.Inquiry | Covered | 77 | 4 | 20 | 3 | Covered by 4 topics (77 questions, 4 materials, 20 cards, 3 videos). |
SMR I.0003 · Understand the relationships between science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and society. (5%)115 questions · 11 materials · 17 cards · 1 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Analyze the interrelationships between science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and society. | S.Limits of Science; S.Interdisciplinary Connections; S.Careers in Science; S.Ethics; S.Decision Making; S.Healthy and Unhealthy Lifestyles; S.Human Populations Impact the Earth; S.Renewable vs Nonrenewable; S.Types of Power Sources; S.Resource Extraction | Covered | 112 | 10 | 16 | 1 | Covered by 10 topics (112 questions, 10 materials, 16 cards, 1 videos). |
| b. Demonstrate scientific literacy in evaluating scientific research and the coverage of science in the media. | S.Read Scientific Publication | Partially covered | 3 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (3 questions, 1 materials, 1 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.Decision Making; S.Healthy and Unhealthy Lifestyles; S.Human Populations Impact the Earth; S.Renewable vs Nonrenewable; S.Types of Power Sources; S.Resource Extraction | Covered | 95 | 8 | 12 | 1 | Covered by 8 topics (95 questions, 8 materials, 12 cards, 1 videos). |
Physical Science (Domain II)Covered
SMR II.0004 · Understand the properties and characteristics of matter. (7%)184 questions · 21 materials · 114 cards · 1 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. 1. Recognize historic and contemporary theories of atomic structure and the kinetic theory of matter. | S.Atomic Models; S.Kinetic Molecular Theory of Matter | Covered | 11 | 2 | 7 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (11 questions, 2 materials, 7 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Demonstrate knowledge of the physical and chemical properties of matter. | S.Periodic Table and Physical Properties; S.Periodic Table and Chemical Properties; S.Physical Properties; S.Molecular Structure of Materials Affecting Physical Properties; S.Physical Properties of Fluids; S.Chemical Properties; S.Applications of Physical and Chemical Properties | Covered | 68 | 7 | 66 | 0 | Covered by 7 topics (68 questions, 7 materials, 66 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Recognize the characteristics of different types of chemical bonds and their effects on the properties of matter. | S.Molecular Structure of Materials Affecting Physical Properties; S.Types of Bonds; S.Hydrogen Bonds | Covered | 31 | 3 | 21 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (31 questions, 3 materials, 21 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of the organization of the periodic table and its relationship to the structure and behavior of elements. | S.Periodic Table; S.Abundance of Elements; S.Periodic Table and Physical Properties; S.Periodic Table and Chemical Properties | Covered | 42 | 4 | 24 | 0 | Covered by 4 topics (42 questions, 4 materials, 24 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Recognize the characteristics of elements, compounds, and mixtures, including solutions. | S.Elements and Compounds; S.Mixtures and Solutions; S.Types of Solutions; S.Molarity; S.Solubility; S.Separating Mixtures | Covered | 51 | 6 | 24 | 1 | Covered by 6 topics (51 questions, 6 materials, 24 cards, 1 videos). |
| f. Demonstrate knowledge of the nature 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 physical and chemical changes in matter. (5%)143 questions · 14 materials · 69 cards · 2 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Apply knowledge of chemical formulas, chemical equations, and the conservation of matter in chemical reactions and in balancing chemical equations. | S.Conservation of Matter and Energy; S.Chemical Formulas; S.Advanced Chemical Formulas; S.Naming Basic Chemicals; S.Types of Reactions; S.Chemical Equations; S.Balancing Chemical Reactions; S.Stoichiometry; S.Chemical Reactions in Real Life | Covered | 86 | 9 | 47 | 0 | Covered by 9 topics (86 questions, 9 materials, 47 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Analyze phase changes and the characteristics of the different states of matter. | S.States of Matter; S.Plasma; S.Phase Changes; S.Phase Diagrams; S.Gas Laws | Covered | 57 | 5 | 22 | 2 | Covered by 5 topics (57 questions, 5 materials, 22 cards, 2 videos). |
SMR II.0006 · Understand the characteristics and transformations of different forms of energy. (7%)229 questions · 19 materials · 95 cards · 4 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of the characteristics of different forms of energy and their transformations. | S.Types of Energy; S.Heat vs Temperature; S.Sound; S.Light; S.Laws of Thermodynamics; S.Endothermic vs Exothermic; S.Conservation of Energy Calculations; S.Applications of Conservation of Energy; S.Types of Energy Transfers By Humans; S.Types of Energy Transfers in Ecology; S.Types of Energy Transfers in Space | Covered | 132 | 11 | 61 | 2 | Covered by 11 topics (132 questions, 11 materials, 61 cards, 2 videos). |
| b. Apply knowledge of the law of conservation of energy to the analysis of physical and chemical changes. | S.Conservation of Energy Calculations; S.Applications of Conservation of Energy; S.Chemical vs Physical Changes | Covered | 34 | 3 | 16 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (34 questions, 3 materials, 16 cards, 1 videos). |
| c. Demonstrate knowledge of thermal energy and the transfer of energy through conduction, convection, and radiation. | S.Heat vs Temperature; S.Conduction, Convection, and Radiation | Covered | 28 | 2 | 6 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (28 questions, 2 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos). |
| d. Analyze characteristics of electric charge, static electricity, and series and parallel circuits. | S.Electricity and Magnetism; S.Electrical Charges; S.Circuits | Covered | 38 | 3 | 22 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (38 questions, 3 materials, 22 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Demonstrate knowledge of the relationship between magnetism and electricity as well as the properties of permanent magnets. | S.Electricity and Magnetism; S.Magnetic Materials; S.Magnetic Forces and Fields; S.Electromagnets | Covered | 44 | 4 | 18 | 0 | Covered by 4 topics (44 questions, 4 materials, 18 cards, 0 videos). |
SMR II.0007 · Understand relationships between force, mass, and motion. (7%)117 questions · 13 materials · 34 cards · 2 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of Newton's three laws of motion in a variety of situations. | S.Motion Terms; S.Force and Newton's Laws; S.Newton's First Law; S.Newton's Second Law; S.Newton's Third Law | Covered | 57 | 5 | 20 | 2 | Covered by 5 topics (57 questions, 5 materials, 20 cards, 2 videos). |
| b. Solve problems involving force, mass, and motion, including the interpretation of force diagrams. | S.Motion Terms; S.Centripetal Force; S.Gravity Advanced; S.Force and Newton's Laws; S.Newton's First Law; S.Newton's Second Law; S.Newton's Third Law; S.Force Vectors and Diagrams | Covered | 84 | 8 | 28 | 2 | Covered by 8 topics (84 questions, 8 materials, 28 cards, 2 videos). |
| c. Apply knowledge of gravity, friction, pressure, and buoyancy in a variety of situations. | S.Gravity; S.Gravity Advanced; S.Electromagnetic Forces; S.Force and Newton's Laws; S.Work, Energy, Power - Calculations; S.Force Vectors and Diagrams; S.Efficiency; S.Geological Processes and Force | Covered | 82 | 8 | 24 | 1 | Covered by 8 topics (82 questions, 8 materials, 24 cards, 1 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of the principles of work and power. | S.Work, Energy, Power - Calculations | Covered | 8 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (8 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
SMR II.0008 · Understand characteristics and properties of mechanical and electromagnetic waves. (5%)87 questions · 10 materials · 48 cards · 0 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Apply knowledge of the characteristics of mechanical waves and their behavior as they pass through different media. | S.Properties of Waves | Covered | 18 | 1 | 13 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (18 questions, 1 materials, 13 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Analyze the properties and propagation of sound in a variety of situations. | S.Doppler Effect; S.Resonance; S.Diffraction and Dispersion; S.Interference, scattering, and polarization | Covered | 31 | 4 | 18 | 0 | Covered by 4 topics (31 questions, 4 materials, 18 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Recognize the characteristics of the electromagnetic spectrum. | S.Electromagnetic Spectrum | Covered | 9 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (9 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Analyze the effects of mirrors, lenses, and prisms on the behavior of light. | S.Reflection and Refraction; S.Mirrors; S.Lenses; S.Prisms | Covered | 29 | 4 | 17 | 0 | Covered by 4 topics (29 questions, 4 materials, 17 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Demonstrate knowledge of refraction and reflection in natural phenomena. | S.Reflection and Refraction | Covered | 14 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (14 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
Life Science (Domain III)Covered
SMR III.0009 · Understand the characteristics, organization, and processes of cells. (6%)98 questions · 8 materials · 69 cards · 3 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Analyze the structure and function of cell organelles in eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. | S.Eukaryotic vs Prokaryotic; S.Parts of the Cell | Covered | 39 | 2 | 18 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (39 questions, 2 materials, 18 cards, 2 videos). |
| b. Analyze the processes of respiration and photosynthesis at the cellular level. | S.Respiration; S.Photosynthesis; S.Photosynthesis Reactions | Covered | 27 | 3 | 15 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (27 questions, 3 materials, 15 cards, 1 videos). |
| c. Recognize how the structure of specialized cells relates to their different functions. | S.Parts of the Cell; S.Types of Cells | Covered | 35 | 2 | 22 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (35 questions, 2 materials, 22 cards, 1 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of mitosis and meiosis. | S.Mitosis; S.Meiosis | Covered | 24 | 2 | 30 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (24 questions, 2 materials, 30 cards, 0 videos). |
SMR III.0010 · Understand characteristics and life processes of living organisms. (6%)246 questions · 25 materials · 101 cards · 9 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Analyze the reproduction, development, and life cycles of representative organisms. | S.Growth and Development; S.Plant Growth; S.Metamorphosis; S.Asexual Reproduction; S.Sexual Reproduction; S.Somatic vs Sex Cells | Covered | 48 | 6 | 21 | 1 | Covered by 6 topics (48 questions, 6 materials, 21 cards, 1 videos). |
| b. Demonstrate knowledge of the structures and functions of plant and animal systems, including the different levels of biological organization. | S.Cells, Tissues, Organs, Organ Systems; S.Human Body Systems; S.Plant Systems Basics; S.Vascular vs Nonvascular Plants; S.Plant Transportation; S.Plant Reproduction | Covered | 91 | 6 | 42 | 4 | Covered by 6 topics (91 questions, 6 materials, 42 cards, 4 videos). |
| c. Analyze how organisms obtain, use, and store matter and energy. | S.Requirements of Life; S.Carbon-Based Life; S.Metabolism Molecules; S.Macromolecules; S.Exchange; S.Internal Transport; S.Digestion and Excretory; S.Nutrition; S.Membrane Transport; S.Homeostasis; S.Structures and Processes of Homeostasis | Covered | 94 | 11 | 40 | 3 | Covered by 11 topics (94 questions, 11 materials, 40 cards, 3 videos). |
| d. Analyze how organisms maintain homeostasis. | S.Requirements of Life; S.Stimuli; S.Homeostasis; S.Structures and Processes of Homeostasis; S.Positive and Negative Feedback | Covered | 59 | 5 | 12 | 2 | Covered by 5 topics (59 questions, 5 materials, 12 cards, 2 videos). |
SMR III.0011 · Understand the concepts and principles related to genetics, the theory of evolution, and the classification of organisms. (6%)232 questions · 23 materials · 92 cards · 4 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Recognize the basic principles of heredity, the nature of the genetic code, and uses of genetic engineering. | S.Structure of DNA and RNA; S.Organization of DNA; S.Universal Genetic Code; S.Dominant vs Recessive; S.Punnett Squares; S.Punnett Squares - Dihybrid Crosses; S.Relationship Between Genes and Traits; S.Genetic Research; S.Genetic Research - Agriculture | Covered | 71 | 9 | 24 | 2 | Covered by 9 topics (71 questions, 9 materials, 24 cards, 2 videos). |
| b. Apply knowledge of the principles and evidence of biological evolution to explain how species change over time. | S.Mutations; S.Common Human Mutations; S.Adaptations; S.Mimicry; S.Populations Change (Not Individuals); S.Natural Selection; S.Artificial Selection; S.Macroevolution Methods; S.Macroevolution Evidence; S.Genetic Isolation and Speciation | Covered | 105 | 10 | 26 | 2 | Covered by 10 topics (105 questions, 10 materials, 26 cards, 2 videos). |
| c. Demonstrate knowledge of the major events in the history of life, including mass extinctions and organisms that characterize specific periods in Earth's history. | S.Earth's History; S.Earth's History - Key Events | Covered | 18 | 2 | 22 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (18 questions, 2 materials, 22 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of the principles of biological classification. | S.Major Groups of Eukaryotic Life; S.Dichotomous Keys | Covered | 38 | 2 | 21 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (38 questions, 2 materials, 21 cards, 0 videos). |
SMR III.0012 · Understand characteristics of different biomes, relationships between organisms, population dynamics, and the flow of matter and energy through ecosystems. (7%)222 questions · 22 materials · 77 cards · 9 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Recognize the characteristics of terrestrial and aquatic biomes, including representative species of plants and animals that inhabit them. | S.Major Biomes | Covered | 6 | 1 | 8 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Analyze the relationships between organisms in a variety of ecosystems. | S.Habitats and Niches; S.Roles In Food Chain; S.Food Webs; S.Types of Relationships; S.Competition; S.Advanced Animal Behavior; S.Role of Microorganisms | Covered | 83 | 7 | 34 | 4 | Covered by 7 topics (83 questions, 7 materials, 34 cards, 4 videos). |
| c. Demonstrate knowledge of biotic and abiotic factors that affect population dynamics in ecosystems, including competition, resource availability, and niche and habitat requirements. | S.Habitats and Niches; S.Growth Factors; S.Competition | Covered | 28 | 3 | 16 | 2 | Covered by 3 topics (28 questions, 3 materials, 16 cards, 2 videos). |
| d. Recognize the ways both human activities and climate change affect ecosystems. | S.Environment as a Pressure; S.Wildlife Impact on Ecosystems; S.Human Impact on Ecosystems; S.Acid Rain | Covered | 21 | 4 | 6 | 0 | Covered by 4 topics (21 questions, 4 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Recognize strategies used by different organisms to obtain the basic needs for life. | S.Requirements of Life; S.Plant Systems Basics; S.Vascular vs Nonvascular Plants; S.Plant Transportation; S.Exchange; S.Digestion and Excretory; S.Membrane Transport; S.Homeostasis; S.Structures and Processes of Homeostasis | Covered | 100 | 9 | 24 | 4 | Covered by 9 topics (100 questions, 9 materials, 24 cards, 4 videos). |
| f. Analyze the cycling of matter and the flow of energy through different types of ecosystems. | S.Roles In Food Chain; S.Food Webs | Covered | 41 | 2 | 15 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (41 questions, 2 materials, 15 cards, 2 videos). |
Earth and Space Science (Domain IV)Covered
SMR IV.0013 · Understand the history of Earth, characteristics of Earth materials and resources, and the geologic processes that shape Earth. (7%)199 questions · 12 materials · 90 cards · 4 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of Earth's formation, history, and structure, as well as the supporting geologic evidence. | S.Structures of Earth; S.Advanced Structures of Earth; S.Uniformitarianism; S.Stratigraphy; S.Earth's History; S.Earth's History - Key Events | Covered | 58 | 6 | 40 | 1 | Covered by 6 topics (58 questions, 6 materials, 40 cards, 1 videos). |
| b. Analyze tectonic processes, the mechanisms driving plate movements, and the landforms and geologic phenomena produced by movement at plate boundaries. | S.Structures of Earth; S.Uniformitarianism; S.Constructive and Destructive Processes; S.Tectonic Plate Theory; S.Rock Cycle | Covered | 103 | 5 | 44 | 3 | Covered by 5 topics (103 questions, 5 materials, 44 cards, 3 videos). |
| c. Demonstrate knowledge of the processes involved in the rock cycle and of the characteristics of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. | S.Properties of Rocks and Minerals; S.Rock Cycle | Covered | 50 | 2 | 22 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (50 questions, 2 materials, 22 cards, 1 videos). |
| d. Analyze the constructive and destructive processes that shape Earth's surface, including weathering, erosion, transportation, and deposition. | S.Constructive and Destructive Processes; S.Rock Cycle | Covered | 53 | 2 | 22 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (53 questions, 2 materials, 22 cards, 2 videos). |
| e. Recognize the characteristics and origins of common rocks, minerals, and fossils, as well as mineral, geothermal, and fossil fuel resources. | S.Properties of Rocks and Minerals; S.Constructive and Destructive Processes; S.Formation of Fossils; S.Carbon Cycle | Covered | 87 | 4 | 37 | 2 | Covered by 4 topics (87 questions, 4 materials, 37 cards, 2 videos). |
SMR IV.0014 · Understand characteristics and properties of the hydrosphere. (6%)98 questions · 10 materials · 68 cards · 1 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Analyze the physical processes of the hydrologic cycle. | S.Water Cycle; S.Properties of Water | Covered | 34 | 2 | 15 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (34 questions, 2 materials, 15 cards, 1 videos). |
| b. Identify the processes and characteristics of marine and freshwater systems, including oceans, rivers, lakes, and glaciers. | S.Surface Water vs Groundwater; S.Bodies of Water; S.Ocean Features; S.Shoreline Features; S.River Features; S.Salt Water; S.Ice | Covered | 54 | 7 | 50 | 0 | Covered by 7 topics (54 questions, 7 materials, 50 cards, 0 videos). |
| c. Demonstrate knowledge of groundwater aquifers as well as their use and recharge. | S.Porosity and Permeability; S.Surface Water vs Groundwater | Covered | 19 | 2 | 7 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (19 questions, 2 materials, 7 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Analyze coastal processes, the formation of barrier islands, and the physical characteristics of deltas and estuaries. | S.Shoreline Features | Covered | 8 | 1 | 9 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (8 questions, 1 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos). |
SMR IV.0015 · Understand Earth's atmosphere, weather, and climate. (6%)161 questions · 15 materials · 97 cards · 3 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of the structure and characteristics of the different layers of the atmosphere. | S.Composition and Layers of the Atmosphere | Covered | 20 | 1 | 12 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 12 cards, 1 videos). |
| b. Analyze atmospheric conditions and geographic factors that produce weather in different parts of the world. | S.Composition and Layers of the Atmosphere; S.Clouds; S.Types of Precipitation; S.Weather vs Climate; S.Uneven Heating of Earth; S.Air Masses and Ocean Currents; S.Weather Tools; S.Weather Points; S.Predicting Severe Weather; S.Weather Charts | Covered | 104 | 10 | 82 | 3 | Covered by 10 topics (104 questions, 10 materials, 82 cards, 3 videos). |
| c. Analyze weather maps and data to predict and explain weather events. | S.Predicting Severe Weather; S.Weather Charts | Covered | 18 | 2 | 23 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (18 questions, 2 materials, 23 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Recognize factors controlling regional climate conditions and the causes for historical changes in climate. | S.Effects of Land on Climate; S.Effects of Natural Phenomena on Climate; S.Human Influences on Climate | Covered | 27 | 3 | 10 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (27 questions, 3 materials, 10 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Recognize how current changes in global climate are affecting ecosystems, the hydrosphere, coastal processes, and agriculture. | S.Human Influences on Climate; S.Global Warming; S.Ozone Depletion | Covered | 39 | 3 | 9 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (39 questions, 3 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos). |
SMR IV.0016 · Understand characteristics of the solar system and the universe. (6%)162 questions · 14 materials · 171 cards · 2 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Demonstrate knowledge of the characteristics of objects in the solar system. | S.Components of the Solar System; S.The Sun; S.Advanced Solar System Components; S.Properties of Celestial Bodies | Covered | 38 | 4 | 67 | 0 | Covered by 4 topics (38 questions, 4 materials, 67 cards, 0 videos). |
| b. Analyze the interactions of the sun, moon, and Earth and the effects of these interactions on Earth. | S.Night/Day and Time Zones; S.Seasons; S.Tides; S.Lunar Cycle; S.Eclipses | Covered | 80 | 5 | 39 | 2 | Covered by 5 topics (80 questions, 5 materials, 39 cards, 2 videos). |
| c. Recognize the characteristics and evolution of stars and galaxies, including theories on the origin and nature of the universe | S.Star Life Cycle; S.Types of Galaxies; S.Origin of the Universe | Covered | 32 | 3 | 42 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (32 questions, 3 materials, 42 cards, 0 videos). |
| d. Demonstrate knowledge of evidence supporting the current understanding of the solar system and universe and of the technology used to gather that evidence. | S.Origin of the Universe; S.Space Science Technology; S.Origin of the Solar System | Covered | 21 | 3 | 58 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (21 questions, 3 materials, 58 cards, 0 videos). |
| e. Demonstrate knowledge of the role of gravity in the solar system and the universe. | S.Tides; S.Components of the Solar System; S.Properties of Celestial Bodies; S.Star Life Cycle; S.Origin of the Universe; S.Space Science Technology | Covered | 70 | 6 | 103 | 0 | Covered by 6 topics (70 questions, 6 materials, 103 cards, 0 videos). |
How 240 Creates The OAE Middle Grades Science (029) 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 OAE Middle Grades 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 OAE 029 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 OAE Middle Grades Science Study Guide
The questions teacher candidates ask us most often about the OAE Middle Grades Science study guide.
Is 240 a good study guide for OAE Middle Grades 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 OAE 029 exam?
This guide is 99% aligned based on a competency-by-competency review of the official framework and the study resources included in the guide.
Does 240 cover every competency?
This page shows coverage transparently across covered, partially covered, and identified gaps so candidates can see exactly how the guide maps to the exam.
What does “partially covered” mean?
Partially covered means the guide addresses the core parts of a competency, but some depth or subtopics may still be limited.