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 TExES CORE Subjects EC-6 (391): 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 TExES CORE Subjects EC-6 (391): Science (391) 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 TExES 391 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
18Domains
100Competencies reviewed
94%Test-aligned
91Covered
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.
Lab Processes, Equipment and Safety (Domain 001)Partially covered
183 questions · 13 materials · 64 cards · 6 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Understands safety regulations and guidelines for science facilities and science instruction. | S.Safety Rules | Covered | 27 | 1 | 2 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (27 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 1 videos). |
| B. Knows procedures for and sources of information regarding the appropriate handling, use, disposal, care and maintenance of chemicals, materials, specimens and equipment. | S.Proper Handling - Chemicals | Covered | 6 | 1 | 9 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos). |
| C. Knows procedures for the safe handling and ethical care and treatment of organisms and specimens. | None | Coverage gap identified | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | No matching topic found in the study guide. |
| D. Selects and safely uses appropriate tools, technologies, materials and equipment needed for instructional activities. | S.Proper Tool Use; S.Choose Appropriate Equipment | Covered | 16 | 2 | 24 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (16 questions, 2 materials, 24 cards, 0 videos). |
| E. Understands concepts of precision, accuracy and error with regard to reading and recording numerical data from a scientific instrument. | S.Precision vs Accuracy; S.Error In Measurements | Covered | 18 | 2 | 6 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (18 questions, 2 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos). |
| F. Understands how to gather, organize, display and communicate data in a variety of ways (e.g., charts, tables, graphs, diagrams, written reports, oral presentations). | M.Graphs and Plots; M.Choosing a Graph or Plot | Covered | 47 | 2 | 9 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (47 questions, 2 materials, 9 cards, 2 videos). |
| G. Understands the international system of measurement (i.e., metric system) and performs unit conversions within measurement systems, including the use of nonstandard units. | M.Measurement Principles; M.Choosing Appropriate Units; M.Converting Units - Proportional Reasoning; S.Metric System; S.Converting Units - Dimensional Analysis | Covered | 69 | 5 | 17 | 3 | Covered by 5 topics (69 questions, 5 materials, 17 cards, 3 videos). |
History and Nature of Science (Domain 002)Covered
209 questions · 14 materials · 100 cards · 8 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Understands, plans, designs and implements instruction that provides opportunities for all students to engage in nonexperimental- and experimental-inquiry investigations. | S.Experimental Investigations; S.Engagement - 5E Model TX; S.Inquiry; S.Fostering Scientific Skills | Covered | 80 | 4 | 24 | 4 | Covered by 4 topics (80 questions, 4 materials, 24 cards, 4 videos). |
| B. Focuses inquiry-based instruction on questions and issues relevant to students and uses strategies to assist students with generating, refining and focusing scientific questions and hypotheses. | S.Activities For Inquiry | Covered | 13 | 1 | 18 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (13 questions, 1 materials, 18 cards, 1 videos). |
| C. Understands and instructs students in the safe and proper use of a variety of grade-appropriate tools, equipment, resources, technology and techniques to access, gather, store, retrieve, organize and analyze data. | S.Safety Rules | Covered | 27 | 1 | 2 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (27 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 1 videos). |
| D. Knows how to guide students in making systematic observations and measurements and posing questions to guide investigations. | S.Activities For Inquiry | Covered | 13 | 1 | 18 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (13 questions, 1 materials, 18 cards, 1 videos). |
| E. Knows how to promote the use of critical-thinking skills, logical reasoning and scientific problem solving to reach conclusions based on evidence. | S.Critical Thinking; S.Activities For Critical Thinking | Covered | 14 | 2 | 1 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (14 questions, 2 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos). |
| F. Knows how to teach students to develop, analyze and evaluate different explanations for a given scientific result, including that repeated investigations may increase reliability. | S.Scientific Method; S.Activities For Inquiry | Covered | 36 | 2 | 19 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (36 questions, 2 materials, 19 cards, 2 videos). |
| G. Knows how to teach students to demonstrate an understanding of potential sources of error in inquiry-based investigation. | S.Activities For Inquiry | Covered | 13 | 1 | 18 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (13 questions, 1 materials, 18 cards, 1 videos). |
| I. Understands principles of scientific ethics. | S.Ethics | Covered | 10 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos). |
| J. Understands the roles that logical reasoning, verifiable evidence, prediction and peer review play in the process of generating and evaluating scientific knowledge. | S.Repeatability; S.Prediction, Explanation, Theory, Fact | Covered | 20 | 2 | 6 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (20 questions, 2 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos). |
| K. Understands the historical development of science (e.g., cell theory, plate tectonics, laws of motion, universal gravity) and technology and the contributions that diverse cultures and individuals of both genders have made to scientific and technological knowledge. | S.Key History of Science; S.Diversity in Science History | Covered | 22 | 2 | 60 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (22 questions, 2 materials, 60 cards, 0 videos). |
| H. Knows how to teach students to demonstrate an understanding of how to communicate and defend the results of an inquiry-based investigation. | S.Activities For Inquiry | Covered | 13 | 1 | 18 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (13 questions, 1 materials, 18 cards, 1 videos). |
Impact of Science (Domain 003)Partially covered
63 questions · 4 materials · 7 cards · 1 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Understands that decisions about the use of science are based on factors such as ethical standards, economics and personal and societal needs. | S.Decision Making | Covered | 10 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos). |
| B. Applies scientific principles to analyze the advantages of, disadvantages of or alternatives to a given decision or course of action. | S.Decision Making | Covered | 10 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos). |
| C. Applies scientific principles and processes to analyze factors that influence personal choices concerning fitness and health, including physiological and psychological effects and risks associated with the use of substances and substance abuse. | S.Healthy and Unhealthy Lifestyles | Covered | 16 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (16 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos). |
| D. Understands concepts, characteristics and issues related to changes in populations and human population growth. | S.Human Populations Impact the Earth | Covered | 20 | 1 | 3 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos). |
| E. Identifies and understands the types and uses of natural resources and the effects of human consumption on the renewal and depletion of resources. | S.Renewable vs Nonrenewable | Covered | 17 | 1 | 4 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (17 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 1 videos). |
| F. Understands the role science and scientists can play in helping resolve personal, societal and global challenges. | None | Coverage gap identified | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | No matching topic found in the study guide. |
Concepts and Processes (Domain 004)Covered
87 questions · 7 materials · 21 cards · 1 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Understands how a unifying, explanatory framework across the science disciplines is provided by the concepts and processes of systems, order and organization; evidence, models and explanation; change, constancy and measurements; and form and function. | S.Properties of Systems; S.Form and Function; S.Change, Constancy, and Measurements; S.Evidence, Models, and Explanation | Covered | 47 | 4 | 10 | 0 | Covered by 4 topics (47 questions, 4 materials, 10 cards, 0 videos). |
| B. Demonstrates an understanding of how patterns in observations and data can be used to make explanations and predictions. | S.Change, Constancy, and Measurements | Covered | 11 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (11 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos). |
| C. Analyzes interactions and interrelationships between systems and subsystems. | S.Systems Model | Covered | 12 | 1 | 7 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (12 questions, 1 materials, 7 cards, 1 videos). |
| D. Applies unifying concepts to explore similarities in a variety of natural phenomena. | S.Systems Model | Covered | 12 | 1 | 7 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (12 questions, 1 materials, 7 cards, 1 videos). |
| E. Understands how properties and patterns of systems can be described in terms of space, time, energy and matter. | S.Systems Model | Covered | 12 | 1 | 7 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (12 questions, 1 materials, 7 cards, 1 videos). |
| F. Understands how change and constancy occur in systems. | S.Change In Systems | Covered | 15 | 1 | 5 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (15 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos). |
| G. Understands the complementary nature of form and function in a given system. | S.Form and Function | Covered | 12 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (12 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos). |
| H. Understands how models are used to represent the natural world and how to evaluate the strengths and limitations of a variety of scientific models (e.g., physical, conceptual, mathematical). | S.Models | Covered | 13 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (13 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
Students as Learners and Science Instruction (Domain 005)Partially covered
67 questions · 9 materials · 26 cards · 2 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Understands how developmental characteristics, prior knowledge and experience and students’ attitudes influence science learning. | None | Coverage gap identified | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | No matching topic found in the study guide. |
| B. Selects and adapts science curricula, content, instructional materials, collaborations, vocabulary and activities to meet the levels of interest, knowledge and understanding as well as the abilities, experiences and needs of all students, including English-language learners. | S.Diversity; S.Differentiation | Covered | 11 | 2 | 3 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (11 questions, 2 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos). |
| C. Understands how to use situations from students’ daily lives to develop instructional materials that investigate how science can be used to make informed decisions. | S.ELL; S.Engagement | Covered | 15 | 2 | 6 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (15 questions, 2 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos). |
| D. Understands common misconceptions in science and has effective ways to address those misconceptions. | S.Misconceptions | Covered | 14 | 1 | 2 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (14 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 1 videos). |
| E. Understands developmentally appropriate design and implementation of hands-on learning experiences in science and selects effective, appropriate instructional practices, activities, technologies and materials to promote students’ scientific knowledge, skills and inquiry processes. | S.Best Practices to Teach Science TX EC-3; S.Integrating Digital Technology; S.Technology for Real-World Applications-TX | Covered | 21 | 3 | 15 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (21 questions, 3 materials, 15 cards, 1 videos). |
| F. Understands questioning strategies designed to elicit higher-level thinking and how to use them to move students from concrete to more abstract understanding. | S.Critical Thinking | Partially covered | 6 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| G. Understands the importance of planning activities that are inclusive and that accommodate the needs of all students. | S.Diversity | Partially covered | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (5 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| H. Understands how to sequence learning activities in a way that enables students to build on their prior knowledge and that challenges them to expand their understanding of science. | S.Best Practices to Teach Science TX EC-3 | Covered | 7 | 1 | 7 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (7 questions, 1 materials, 7 cards, 0 videos). |
Science Assessment (Domain 006)Covered
54 questions · 4 materials · 15 cards · 2 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Understands the relationships between a science curriculum, assessment and instruction and bases instruction on information gathered through assessment of students’ strengths and needs. | S.Assessment and Instruction - Science; S.E Guidelines and TEKS | Covered | 42 | 2 | 7 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (42 questions, 2 materials, 7 cards, 1 videos). |
| B. Understands the importance of monitoring and assessing students’ understanding of science concepts and skills on an ongoing basis, including how to use formal and informal assessments of student performance and how to use products (e.g., projects, lab journals, rubrics, portfolios, student profiles, checklists) to evaluate students’ understanding of and participation in the inquiry process. | S.Assessment and Instruction - Science; S.Fair Assessment; S.Rubrics in Assessment | Covered | 54 | 3 | 14 | 2 | Covered by 3 topics (54 questions, 3 materials, 14 cards, 2 videos). |
| C. Selects — or designs — and administers a variety of appropriate assessments (e.g., performance assessment, self-assessment, formal/informal assessment, formative/summative assessment) to monitor students’ understanding and progress and to plan for instruction. | S.Assessment and Instruction - Science | Covered | 42 | 1 | 6 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (42 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos). |
| D. Understands the importance of communicating evaluation criteria and assessment results to students. | S.Assessment and Instruction - Science | Covered | 42 | 1 | 6 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (42 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos). |
Forces and Motion (Domain 007)Covered
107 questions · 8 materials · 40 cards · 4 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Demonstrates an understanding of the properties of universal forces (e.g., gravitational, electrical, magnetic). | S.Force and Newton's Laws; S.Gravity; S.Mass vs Weight; S.Electromagnetic Forces | Covered | 54 | 4 | 15 | 2 | Covered by 4 topics (54 questions, 4 materials, 15 cards, 2 videos). |
| B. Understands how to measure, graph and describe changes in motion by using concepts of position, direction of motion and speed. | S.Motion Terms; S.Motion Graphs | Covered | 38 | 2 | 11 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (38 questions, 2 materials, 11 cards, 2 videos). |
| C. Analyzes the ways unbalanced forces acting on an object cause changes in the position or motion of the object. | S.Force and Newton's Laws | Covered | 29 | 1 | 12 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (29 questions, 1 materials, 12 cards, 1 videos). |
| D. Analyzes the relationship between force and motion in a variety of situations (e.g., simple machines, geologic processes). | S.Simple Machines - Basic; S.Geological Processes and Force | Covered | 15 | 2 | 15 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (15 questions, 2 materials, 15 cards, 0 videos). |
Physical and Chemical Properties (Domain 008)Partially covered
141 questions · 15 materials · 81 cards · 7 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Describes and measures the physical and chemical properties of substances (e.g., size, shape, temperature, magnetism, hardness, mass, conduction, density). | S.Physical Properties; S.Electrical Conductor vs Insulator; S.Thermal Conductor vs Insulator; S.Chemical Properties; S.Applications of Physical and Chemical Properties; S.Magnetic Materials | Covered | 45 | 6 | 47 | 2 | Covered by 6 topics (45 questions, 6 materials, 47 cards, 2 videos). |
| B. Describes the physical properties of solids, liquids and gases. | S.States of Matter | Covered | 11 | 1 | 3 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (11 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 1 videos). |
| C. Distinguishes between physical and chemical changes in matter. | S.Chemical vs Physical Changes | Covered | 18 | 1 | 4 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (18 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 1 videos). |
| D. Applies knowledge of physical and chemical properties (including atomic structure) of and changes in matter to processes and situations that occur in life and in earth and space science. | S.Parts of an Atom; S.Atoms and Molecules; S.Phase Changes | Covered | 38 | 3 | 17 | 2 | Covered by 3 topics (38 questions, 3 materials, 17 cards, 2 videos). |
| E. Distinguishes between elements, compounds, mixtures and solutions and describes their properties. | S.Elements and Compounds; S.Mixtures and Solutions; S.Separating Mixtures-EC | Covered | 26 | 3 | 13 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (26 questions, 3 materials, 13 cards, 1 videos). |
| F. Describes and explains the occurrence and importance of a variety of chemical reactions that occur in daily life (e.g., rusting, burning of fossil fuels, photosynthesis, cell respiration, chemical batteries, digestion of food). | S.Applications of Conservation of Matter - Conceptual | Partially covered | 3 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (3 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
Energy and Interactions (Domain 009)Covered
166 questions · 10 materials · 70 cards · 2 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Understands conservation of energy and energy transformations and analyzes how energy is transformed from one form to another (e.g., potential, kinetic, mechanical, sound, heat, light, chemical, electrical) in a variety of everyday situations and how increasing or decreasing amounts affect objects. | S.Types of Energy; S.Heat vs Temperature | Covered | 40 | 2 | 11 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (40 questions, 2 materials, 11 cards, 1 videos). |
| B. Understands the basic concepts of heat energy and related processes (e.g., melting, evaporation, boiling, condensation, conduction, convection, and radiation). | S.Conduction, Convection, and Radiation | Covered | 17 | 1 | 4 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (17 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 1 videos). |
| C. Understands the principles of electricity and magnetism and their applications (e.g., electric circuits, electromagnetic fields, motors, audio speakers, lightning). | S.Electricity and Magnetism; S.Circuits | Covered | 34 | 2 | 22 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (34 questions, 2 materials, 22 cards, 0 videos). |
| D. Applies knowledge of properties of light (e.g., reflection, refraction) to describe the functioning of optical systems and phenomena (e.g., camera, microscope, rainbow, eye). | S.Light; S.Reflection and Refraction; S.Applications of Waves - Optical Technologies | Covered | 25 | 3 | 15 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (25 questions, 3 materials, 15 cards, 0 videos). |
| E. Demonstrates an understanding of the properties, production, and transmission of sound. | S.Properties of Waves; S.Sound | Covered | 50 | 2 | 20 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (50 questions, 2 materials, 20 cards, 0 videos). |
Energy Transformations and Conservation (Domain 010)Partially covered
17 questions · 3 materials · 17 cards · 0 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Describes sources of electrical energy and processes of energy transformation for human uses (e.g., fossil fuels, solar panels, hydroelectric plants). | S.Types of Energy Transfers By Humans | Covered | 7 | 1 | 14 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (7 questions, 1 materials, 14 cards, 0 videos). |
| B. Applies knowledge of transfer of energy in a variety of situations (e.g., the production of heat, light, sound and magnetic effects by electrical energy; the process of photosynthesis; weather processes; food webs; food and energy pyramids). | S.Types of Energy Transfers in Ecology | Partially covered | 6 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
| C. Understands applications of energy transformations and the conservation of matter and energy in life and in earth and space science. | S.Types of Energy Transfers in Ecology; S.Types of Energy Transfers in Space | Covered | 10 | 2 | 3 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (10 questions, 2 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos). |
Structure and Function of Living Things (Domain 011)Covered
179 questions · 13 materials · 97 cards · 7 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Understands that living systems have different structures that perform different functions. | S.Cells, Tissues, Organs, Organ Systems | Covered | 11 | 1 | 6 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (11 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos). |
| B. Understands and describes stages in the life cycles of common plants and animals (including animals that experience complete and incomplete metamorphosis). | S.Growth and Development; S.Plant Growth; S.Plant Reproduction; S.Metamorphosis | Covered | 33 | 4 | 23 | 1 | Covered by 4 topics (33 questions, 4 materials, 23 cards, 1 videos). |
| C. Understands that organisms have basic needs. | S.Requirements of Life; S.Metabolism Molecules | Covered | 14 | 2 | 8 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (14 questions, 2 materials, 8 cards, 1 videos). |
| D. Analyzes how structure complements function in cells, tissues, organs, organ systems and organisms. | S.Parts of the Cell; S.Types of Cells; S.Plant Systems Basics | Covered | 52 | 3 | 26 | 2 | Covered by 3 topics (52 questions, 3 materials, 26 cards, 2 videos). |
| E. Identifies human body systems and describes their functions. | S.Human Body Systems | Covered | 25 | 1 | 11 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (25 questions, 1 materials, 11 cards, 1 videos). |
| F. Understands the relationship between characteristics, structures, and functions and corresponding taxonomic classifications. | S.Eukaryotic vs Prokaryotic; S.Major Groups of Eukaryotic Life | Covered | 44 | 2 | 25 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (44 questions, 2 materials, 25 cards, 1 videos). |
Reproduction and the Mechanisms of Heredity (Domain 012)Partially covered
87 questions · 9 materials · 33 cards · 2 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Describes the processes by which plants and animals reproduce and explains how hereditary information is passed from one generation to the next. | S.Asexual Reproduction; S.Sexual Reproduction; S.Somatic vs Sex Cells | Covered | 30 | 3 | 14 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (30 questions, 3 materials, 14 cards, 0 videos). |
| B. Compares and contrasts inherited traits and learned characteristics. | S.Learned vs Inherited | Covered | 9 | 1 | 5 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (9 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos). |
| C. Understands the organization of hereditary material and how an inherited trait can be determined by one or many genes and how more than one trait can be influenced by a single gene. | S.Structure of DNA and RNA; S.Environmental vs Genetic; S.Relationship Between Genes and Traits | Covered | 16 | 3 | 5 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (16 questions, 3 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos). |
| D. Distinguishes between dominant and recessive traits and predicts the probable outcomes of genetic combinations. | S.Dominant vs Recessive; S.Punnett Squares | Covered | 32 | 2 | 9 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (32 questions, 2 materials, 9 cards, 2 videos). |
| E. Evaluates the influence of environmental and genetic factors on the traits of an organism. | S.Environmental vs Genetic | Partially covered | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (2 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content. |
Adaptations and Evolution (Domain 013)Covered
56 questions · 6 materials · 13 cards · 2 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Demonstrates knowledge of adaptive characteristics and explains how adaptations influence the survival of populations or species. | S.Natural Selection; S.Adaptations | Covered | 32 | 2 | 5 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (32 questions, 2 materials, 5 cards, 2 videos). |
| B. Describes how populations and species change through time. | S.Populations Change (Not Individuals); S.Species | Covered | 11 | 2 | 5 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (11 questions, 2 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos). |
| C. Describes processes that enable traits to change through time, including selective breeding, mutation and other natural occurrences. | S.Mutations; S.Artificial Selection | Covered | 13 | 2 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (13 questions, 2 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
Organisms and the Environment (Domain 014)Covered
151 questions · 14 materials · 65 cards · 8 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Understands that organisms respond to internal or external stimuli and analyzes the role of internal and external stimuli in the behavior of organisms. | S.Stimuli | Covered | 8 | 1 | 4 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (8 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 1 videos). |
| B. Understands relationships between organisms and the environment and describes ways that living organisms depend on each other and on the environment to meet their basic needs. | S.Homeostasis; S.Types of Relationships | Covered | 34 | 2 | 6 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (34 questions, 2 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos). |
| C. Identifies organisms, populations or species with similar needs and analyzes how they compete with one another for resources. | S.Competition | Covered | 9 | 1 | 8 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (9 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 1 videos). |
| D. Analyzes the interrelationships and interdependence among producers, consumers and decomposers in an ecosystem (e.g., food webs, food chains, competition, predation). | S.Photosynthesis; S.Roles In Food Chain; S.Food Webs | Covered | 49 | 3 | 22 | 3 | Covered by 3 topics (49 questions, 3 materials, 22 cards, 3 videos). |
| E. Identifies factors that influence the size and growth of populations in an ecosystem. | S.Growth Factors; S.Environment as a Pressure | Covered | 15 | 2 | 7 | 1 | Covered by 2 topics (15 questions, 2 materials, 7 cards, 1 videos). |
| F. Analyzes adaptive characteristics that result in a population’s or species’ unique niche in an ecosystem. | S.Ecological Organization; S.Major Biomes; S.Habitats and Niches | Covered | 23 | 3 | 17 | 1 | Covered by 3 topics (23 questions, 3 materials, 17 cards, 1 videos). |
| G. Knows how populations and species modify and affect ecosystems. | S.Wildlife Impact on Ecosystems; S.Human Impact on Ecosystems | Covered | 13 | 2 | 3 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (13 questions, 2 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos). |
Structure and Function of Earth Systems (Domain 015)Covered
87 questions · 6 materials · 43 cards · 3 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Understands the structure of Earth and analyzes constructive and destructive processes (including plate tectonics, weathering and erosion) that produce geologic change, including how these processes have affected Earth history. | S.Structures of Earth; S.Constructive and Destructive Processes; S.Advanced Structures of Earth | Covered | 49 | 3 | 24 | 2 | Covered by 3 topics (49 questions, 3 materials, 24 cards, 2 videos). |
| B. Understands the form and function of surface water and groundwater. | S.Surface Water vs Groundwater | Covered | 9 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (9 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
| C. Applies knowledge of the composition and structure of the atmosphere and its properties. | S.Composition and Layers of the Atmosphere | Covered | 20 | 1 | 12 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 12 cards, 1 videos). |
| D. Applies knowledge of how human activity and natural processes, both gradual and catastrophic, can alter Earth systems. | S.Human Influences on Climate | Covered | 9 | 1 | 4 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (9 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos). |
Cycles in Earth Systems (Domain 016)Covered
136 questions · 8 materials · 58 cards · 4 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Understands the rock cycle and how rocks, minerals and soils are formed, and their respective properties. | S.Rock Cycle | Covered | 24 | 1 | 8 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (24 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 1 videos). |
| B. Understands the water cycle and its relationship to weather processes. | S.Water Cycle | Covered | 20 | 1 | 9 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (20 questions, 1 materials, 9 cards, 1 videos). |
| C. Understands the nutrient (e.g., carbon, nitrogen) cycle and its relationship to Earth systems. | S.Carbon Cycle; S.Nitrogen Cycle | Covered | 27 | 2 | 9 | 2 | Covered by 2 topics (27 questions, 2 materials, 9 cards, 2 videos). |
| D. Applies knowledge of how human and natural processes affect Earth systems. | S.Air Masses and Ocean Currents; S.Global Warming | Covered | 36 | 2 | 14 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (36 questions, 2 materials, 14 cards, 0 videos). |
| E. Understands and describes the properties and uses of Earth materials (e.g., rocks, soils, water, atmospheric gases). | S.Properties of Rocks and Minerals; S.Soil | Covered | 29 | 2 | 22 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (29 questions, 2 materials, 22 cards, 0 videos). |
Energy in Weather and Climate (Domain 017)Partially covered
64 questions · 7 materials · 46 cards · 2 videosPartially covered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Understands the elements of weather (e.g., humidity, wind speed and direction, air pressure, temperature) and the tools used for measurement. | S.Weather Tools | Covered | 11 | 1 | 9 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (11 questions, 1 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos). |
| B. Compares and contrasts weather and climate. | S.Weather vs Climate | Covered | 11 | 1 | 7 | 1 | Covered by 1 topic (11 questions, 1 materials, 7 cards, 1 videos). |
| C. Analyzes weather charts and data to make weather predictions. | S.Weather Charts; S.Predicting Severe Weather | Covered | 18 | 2 | 23 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (18 questions, 2 materials, 23 cards, 0 videos). |
| D. Applies knowledge of how transfers of energy between Earth systems affect weather and climate. | S.Uneven Heating of Earth | Partially covered | 6 | 1 | 2 | 1 | Partial coverage by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 1 videos); limited supporting content. |
| E. Analyzes how Earth’s position, orientation, and surface features affect weather and climate. | S.Effects of Land on Climate; S.Effects of Natural Phenomena on Climate | Covered | 18 | 2 | 6 | 0 | Covered by 2 topics (18 questions, 2 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos). |
Solar System and the Universe (Domain 018)Covered
125 questions · 8 materials · 91 cards · 2 videosCovered
| Official competency | Matching 240 topics | Alignment | Qs | Mats | Cards | Vids | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Understands the properties and characteristics of objects in the sky. | S.Components of the Solar System; S.Properties of Celestial Bodies; S.Star Life Cycle | Covered | 45 | 3 | 52 | 0 | Covered by 3 topics (45 questions, 3 materials, 52 cards, 0 videos). |
| B. Applies knowledge of the Earth–Moon–Sun system and the interactions among them (e.g., day and night, seasons, lunar phases, eclipses). | 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. Identifies properties of the components of the solar system. | S.Components of the Solar System | Covered | 21 | 1 | 30 | 0 | Covered by 1 topic (21 questions, 1 materials, 30 cards, 0 videos). |
How 240 Creates The TExES CORE Subjects EC-6 (391): Science (391) 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 TExES CORE Subjects EC-6 (391): 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 TExES 391 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 TExES CORE Subjects EC-6 (391): Science Study Guide
The questions teacher candidates ask us most often about the TExES CORE Subjects EC-6 (391): Science study guide.
Is 240 a good study guide for TExES CORE Subjects EC-6 (391): 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 TExES 391 exam?
This guide is 94% 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.