Is 240 a good study guide for the TExES Life Science 7-12 (238)?

Yes. The 240 study guide is built around the official exam framework and this page shows detailed alignment domain by domain and competency by competency.

TExES Life Science 7-12 (238) Study Guide Test Alignment

Q: How closely does 240 align to the TExES Life Science 7-12 (238) exam?

This guide is 87% test-aligned based on a competency-by-competency review of the official framework and the study resources included in the guide.

Q: Does 240 cover every competency?

Coverage is shown transparently across covered, partially covered, and identified gaps: 93 covered, 27 partially covered, and 3 gaps across 123 competencies.

Q: 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.

Why Test Alignment Matters for Your TExES Life Science 7-12 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 Life Science 7-12 (238) 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 238 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

6 domains · 123 competencies reviewed · 87% test-aligned

Covered— competency is comprehensively supported by the guide

Partially covered— core content is covered, but some depth gaps remain

Coverage gap identified— a 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.

SCIENTIFIC INQUIRY AND PROCESSES (DOMAIN I) Partially covered

SMR I.001 The teacher understands how to select and manage learning activities to ensure the safety of all students and the correct use and care of organisms, natural resources, materials, equipment and technologies.

181 Qs20 Materials93 Cards3 VideosCovered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Vids	Notes
A. Uses current sources of information about laboratory safety, including safety regulations and guidelines for the use of science facilities.	S.Safety Rules	Covered	27	1	2	0	Covered by 1 topic (27 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos).
B. Recognizes potential safety hazards in the laboratory and in the field and knows how to apply procedures, including basic first aid, for responding to accidents.	S.Emergency Procedures; S.Safety Icons	Covered	10	2	1	0	Covered by 2 topics (10 questions, 2 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos).
C. Employs safe practices in planning, implementing and managing all instructional activities and designs, and implements rules and procedures to maintain a safe learning environment.	S.Safety Rules	Covered	27	1	2	0	Covered by 1 topic (27 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos).
D. Understands procedures for selecting, maintaining and safely using chemicals, tools, technologies, materials, specimens and equipment, including procedures for the recycling, reuse and conservation of laboratory resources and for the safe handling and ethical treatment of organisms.	S.Proper Handling - Chemicals; S.Microscopes; S.Safety Rules - Biology	Covered	12	3	9	0	Covered by 3 topics (12 questions, 3 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos).
E. Knows how to use appropriate equipment and technology (e.g., Internet, spread-sheet, calculator) for gathering, organizing, displaying and communicating data in a variety of ways (e.g., charts, tables, graphs, diagrams, maps, satellite images, written reports, oral presentations).	S.Best Chart for the Data; S.Read Scientific Publication	Covered	16	2	10	0	Covered by 2 topics (16 questions, 2 materials, 10 cards, 0 videos).
F. Understands how to use a variety of tools, techniques and technology to gather, organize and analyze data, how to perform calculations, and how to apply appropriate methods of statistical measures and analyses.	S.Best Chart for the Data; S.Read Scientific Publication; M.Boxplots; S.Measures of Center and Range; S.Proper Tool Use; S.Various Tools	Covered	42	6	20	1	Covered by 6 topics (42 questions, 6 materials, 20 cards, 1 videos).
G. Knows how to apply techniques to calibrate measuring devices and understands concepts of precision, accuracy and error with regard to reading and recording numerical data from scientific instruments (e.g., significant figures).	S.Precision vs Accuracy; S.Error In Measurements; S.Significant Figures; S.Choose Appropriate Equipment - Advanced	Covered	41	4	56	0	Covered by 4 topics (41 questions, 4 materials, 56 cards, 0 videos).
H. Uses the International System of Units (i.e., metric system) and performs unit conversions within and across measurement systems.	M.Converting Units - Proportional Reasoning; S.Celestial Distance; S.Metric System; S.Converting Units - Dimensional Analysis	Covered	49	4	9	2	Covered by 4 topics (49 questions, 4 materials, 9 cards, 2 videos).

SMR I.002 The teacher understands the nature of science, the process of scientific inquiry and the unifying concepts that are common to all sciences.

202 Qs18 Materials49 Cards3 VideosCovered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Vids	Notes
A. Understands the nature of science, the relationship between science and technology, the predictive power of science and limitations to the scope of science (i.e., the types of questions that science can and cannot answer).	S.Nature of Science; S.Limits of Science; S.Scientific Method	Covered	36	3	14	1	Covered by 3 topics (36 questions, 3 materials, 14 cards, 1 videos).
B. Knows the characteristics of various types of scientific investigations (e.g., descriptive studies, controlled experiments, comparative data analysis) and how and why scientists use different types of scientific investigations.	S.Experimental Investigations; S.Non-Experimental Investigations; S.Non-Experimental Investigations - Advanced; S.Variety of Methods Across Science	Covered	37	3	11	1	Covered by 4 topics (37 questions, 3 materials, 11 cards, 1 videos).
C. Understands principles and procedures for designing and conducting a variety of scientific investigations — with emphasis on inquiry-based investigations — and how to communicate and defend scientific results.	S.Experimental Investigations	Covered	25	1	7	1	Covered by 1 topic (25 questions, 1 materials, 7 cards, 1 videos).
D. Understands how logical reasoning, verifiable observational and experimental evidence and peer review are used in the process of generating and evaluating scientific knowledge.	S.Repeatability	Covered	13	1	1	0	Covered by 1 topic (13 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos).
E. Understands how to identify potential sources of error in an investigation, evaluate the validity of scientific data and develop and analyze different explanations for a given scientific result.	S.Error In Measurements; S.Proper Data Analysis	Covered	20	2	4	0	Covered by 2 topics (20 questions, 2 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos).
F. Knows the characteristics and general features of systems; how properties and patterns of systems can be described in terms of space, time, energy and matter; and how system components and different systems interact.	S.Properties of Systems; S.Change In Systems; S.Interdisciplinary Connections	Covered	41	3	13	0	Covered by 3 topics (41 questions, 3 materials, 13 cards, 0 videos).
G. Knows how to apply and analyze the systems model (e.g., interacting parts, boundaries, input, output, feedback, subsystems) across the science disciplines.	S.Systems Model	Covered	10	1	7	0	Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 7 cards, 0 videos).
H. Understands how shared themes and concepts (e.g., systems, order and organization; evidence, models and explanation; change, constancy and measurements; evolution and equilibrium; form and function) provide a unifying framework in science.	S.Form and Function; S.Change, Constancy, and Measurements; S.Evidence, Models, and Explanation	Covered	35	3	5	0	Covered by 3 topics (35 questions, 3 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos).
I. Understands the difference between a theory and a hypothesis, 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.Prediction, Explanation, Theory, Fact; S.Observation vs Inference	Covered	10	2	8	1	Covered by 2 topics (10 questions, 2 materials, 8 cards, 1 videos).

SMR I.003 The teacher understands the history of science, how science impacts the daily lives of students and how science interacts with and influences personal and societal decisions.

131 Qs14 Materials82 Cards1 VideosPartially covered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Vids	Notes
A. Understands the historical development of science, key events in the history of science and the contributions that diverse cultures and individuals of both genders have made to scientific 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).
B. Knows how to use examples from the history of science to demonstrate the changing nature of scientific theories and knowledge (i.e., that scientific theories and knowledge are always subject to revision in light of new evidence).	S.Famous Experiments	Partially covered	5	1	0	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (5 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
C. Knows that science is a human endeavor influenced by societal, cultural and personal views of the world, and knows that decisions about the use and direction of science are based on factors such as ethical standards, economics and personal and societal biases and needs.	S.Ethics	Covered	10	1	0	0	Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos).
D. Understands the application of scientific ethics to the conducting, analyzing and publishing of scientific investigations.	S.Ethics and Publishing	Partially covered	0	1	1	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (0 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
E. Applies scientific principles to analyze factors (e.g., diet, exercise, personal behavior) that influence personal and societal choices concerning fitness and health (e.g., physiological and psycho-logical 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).
F. Applies scientific principles, the theory of probability and risk/benefit analysis 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).
G. Understands the role science can play in helping resolve personal, societal and global issues (e.g., recycling, population growth, disease prevention, resource use, evaluating product claims).	S.Ethics and Regulation; S.Renewable vs Nonrenewable; S.Green Energy Technology; S.Human Influences on Climate; S.Global Warming; S.Ozone Depletion; S.Human Impact on Ecosystems	Covered	68	7	20	1	Covered by 7 topics (68 questions, 7 materials, 20 cards, 1 videos).

CELL STRUCTURE AND PROCESSES (DOMAIN II) Partially covered

SMR II.004 The teacher understands the structure and function of biomolecules.

56 Qs6 Materials24 Cards1 VideosPartially covered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Vids	Notes
A. Identifies the chemical elements necessary for life and understands how these elements combine to form biologically important compounds.	S.Carbon-Based Life	Partially covered	5	1	4	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (5 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
B. Relates the physical and chemical properties of water and carbon to the significance of these properties in basic life processes.	S.Carbon-Based Life; S.Properties of Water	Covered	19	2	9	0	Covered by 2 topics (19 questions, 2 materials, 9 cards, 0 videos).
C. Analyzes how a molecule’s biological function is related to its shape (e.g., enzymes, tRNA, DNA, receptors, neurotransmitters, lipids).	S.Macromolecules - Form and Function; S.Cellular Features - Form and Function	Covered	18	2	10	0	Covered by 2 topics (18 questions, 2 materials, 10 cards, 0 videos).
D. Understands the importance of chemical reactions in the synthesis and degradation of biomolecules.	S.Enzymes	Partially covered	6	1	1	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
E. Identifies and compares the structures and functions of different types of biomolecules, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids.	S.Macromolecules	Covered	13	1	7	1	Covered by 1 topic (13 questions, 1 materials, 7 cards, 1 videos).
F. Explains how enzymes function in synthesis and degradation of biomolecules (e.g., DNA, food).	S.Enzymes	Partially covered	6	1	1	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.

SMR II.005 The teacher understands that cells are the basic structures of living things and have specialized parts that perform specific functions.

58 Qs5 Materials36 Cards2 VideosCovered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Vids	Notes
A. Differentiates among viruses, prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells (e.g., structure and function).	S.Eukaryotic vs Prokaryotic; S.Viruses	Covered	19	2	12	1	Covered by 2 topics (19 questions, 2 materials, 12 cards, 1 videos).
B. Describes the basic components of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells (e.g., cell membrane, cell wall, ribosomes, nucleus, mitochondrion, chloroplast) and the functions and relationships of the components.	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).
C. Identifies differences in cell structure and function in different types of organisms (e.g., differences in plant and animal cells).	S.Eukaryotic vs Prokaryotic; S.Types of Cells	Covered	20	2	14	1	Covered by 2 topics (20 questions, 2 materials, 14 cards, 1 videos).
D. Analyzes specialization of structure and function in different types of cells in living organisms (e.g., skin, nerve and muscle cells in animals; root, stem and leaf cells in plants).	S.Types of Cells; S.Types of Cells - Muscle and Epithelial	Covered	12	2	12	0	Covered by 2 topics (12 questions, 2 materials, 12 cards, 0 videos).

SMR II.006 The teacher understands how cells carry out life processes.

41 Qs4 Materials30 Cards2 VideosCovered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Vids	Notes
A. Analyzes how cells maintain homeostasis (e.g., the effects of concentration gradients, rate of movement and ratio of surface area to volume).	S.Membrane Transport - Advanced	Covered	12	1	13	1	Covered by 1 topic (12 questions, 1 materials, 13 cards, 1 videos).
B. Understands processes by which cells transport water, nutrients and wastes across cell membranes (e.g., osmosis, diffusion, transport systems).	S.Membrane Transport - Advanced	Covered	12	1	13	1	Covered by 1 topic (12 questions, 1 materials, 13 cards, 1 videos).
C. Analyzes energy flow in the processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration.	S.Respiration; S.Photosynthesis	Covered	19	2	15	1	Covered by 2 topics (19 questions, 2 materials, 15 cards, 1 videos).
D. Compares and contrasts anaerobic and aerobic respiration and their products.	S.Respiration - Aerobic vs Anaerobic	Covered	10	1	5	0	Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos).

SMR II.007 The teacher understands how specialized cells, tissues, organs, organ systems and organisms grow and develop.

39 Qs7 Materials24 Cards1 VideosPartially covered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Vids	Notes
A. Understands factors (e.g., hormones, cell size) that regulate the cell cycle and the effects of unregulated cell growth (e.g., cancer).	S.Cell Growth Issues; S.The Cell Cycle; S.The Cell Cycle - Regulations and Cancer	Covered	14	3	7	0	Covered by 3 topics (14 questions, 3 materials, 7 cards, 0 videos).
B. Analyzes the role of cell differentiation in the development of tissues, organs, organ systems and living organisms.	S.Stem Cells and Differentiation	Covered	10	1	8	0	Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos).
C. Analyzes factors (e.g., genetics, disease, nutrition, exposure to toxic chemicals) affecting cell differentiation and the growth and development of organisms.	S.Cancer Causes; S.Stem Cells and Differentiation - Factors	Partially covered	4	2	5	0	Partial coverage by 2 topics (4 questions, 2 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
D. Identifies the different levels of organization in multicellular organisms and relates the parts to each other and to the whole.	S.Cells, Tissues, Organs, Organ Systems	Covered	11	1	6	1	Covered by 1 topic (11 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos).

HEREDITY AND EVOLUTION OF LIFE (DOMAIN III) Partially covered

SMR III.008 The teacher understands the structures and functions of nucleic acids in the mechanisms of genetics.

70 Qs11 Materials61 Cards0 VideosPartially covered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Notes
A. Relates the structure of DNA (e.g., bases, sugars, phosphates) to the nature, function and relationships of genes, chromatin and chromosomes.	S.Structure of DNA and RNA; S.Organization of DNA; S.DNA Replication	Covered	26	3	14	Covered by 3 topics (26 questions, 3 materials, 14 cards, 0 videos).
B. Relates the structures of DNA and RNA to the processes of replication, transcription, translation and genetic regulation.	S.Structure of DNA and RNA; S.Transcription; S.Translation	Covered	28	3	13	Covered by 3 topics (28 questions, 3 materials, 13 cards, 0 videos).
C. Compares and contrasts the organization and control of the genome in viruses, prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells.	S.Organization of DNA - Comparisons	Partially covered	0	1	5	Partial coverage by 1 topic (0 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
D. Understands the types, biological significance and causes of mutations.	S.Mutations; S.Types of Mutations - Sequence	Covered	18	2	15	Covered by 2 topics (18 questions, 2 materials, 15 cards, 0 videos).
E. Identifies methods and applications of genetic identification and manipulation (e.g., production of recombinant DNA, cloning, PCR).	S.Genetic Research; S.Genetic Research - Techniques	Covered	8	2	15	Covered by 2 topics (8 questions, 2 materials, 15 cards, 0 videos).
F. Analyzes human karyotypes to identify chromosomal disorders and sex.	S.Analyzing Karyotypes	Partially covered	2	1	3	Partial coverage by 1 topic (2 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.

SMR III.009 The teacher understands the continuity and variations of traits from one generation to the next.

102 Qs12 Materials65 Cards2 VideosPartially covered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Vids	Notes
A. Applies the laws of probability to determine genotypic and phenotypic frequencies in Mendelian inheritance (e.g., using Punnett squares, pedigree charts).	S.Punnett Squares; S.Punnett Squares - Dihybrid Crosses; S.Pedigrees	Covered	37	3	9	1	Covered by 3 topics (37 questions, 3 materials, 9 cards, 1 videos).
B. Compares the processes of meiosis and mitosis (in plants and animals) and describes their roles in sexual and asexual reproduction.	S.Mitosis; S.Meiosis; S.Somatic vs Sex Cells	Covered	31	3	33	0	Covered by 3 topics (31 questions, 3 materials, 33 cards, 0 videos).
C. Recognizes factors influencing the transmission of genes from one generation to the next (e.g., linkage, position of genes on a chromosome, crossing- over, independent assortment).	S.Factors of Genetic Transmission	Partially covered	2	1	6	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (2 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
D. Understands how the genotype of an organism influences the expression of traits in its phenotype (e.g., dominant and recessive traits; monogenic, polygenic and polytypic inheritance; genetic disorders).	S.Dominant vs Recessive; S.Non-Mendelian Inheritance; S.Non-Mendelian Inheritance - Linkage; S.Relationship Between Genes and Traits	Covered	29	4	20	1	Covered by 4 topics (29 questions, 4 materials, 20 cards, 1 videos).
E. Analyzes the effects of environmental factors (e.g., light, nutrition, moisture, temperature) on the expression of traits in the phenotype of an organism.	S.Epigenetics	Partially covered	3	1	5	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (3 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.

SMR III.010 The teacher understands the theory of biological evolution.

93 Qs11 Materials42 Cards2 VideosPartially covered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Vids	Notes
A. Understands stability and change in populations (e.g., Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium) and analyzes factors leading to genetic variation and evolution in populations (e.g., mutation, gene flow, genetic drift, recombination, nonrandom mating, natural selection).	S.Natural Selection; S.Natural Selection - Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium; S.Macroevolution Methods; S.Macroevolution Methods - Advanced	Covered	44	4	14	1	Covered by 4 topics (44 questions, 4 materials, 14 cards, 1 videos).
B. Analyzes the effects of natural selection on adaptations and diversity in populations and species.	S.Adaptations; S.Populations Change (Not Individuals)	Covered	24	2	7	1	Covered by 2 topics (24 questions, 2 materials, 7 cards, 1 videos).
C. Understands the role of intraspecific and interspecific competition in evolutionary change.	S.Macroevolution Methods - Advanced	Partially covered	3	1	5	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (3 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
D. Compares and contrasts the different effects of selection (e.g., directional, stabilizing, diversifying) on a variable characteristic.	S.Types of Selection	Partially covered	5	1	5	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (5 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
E. Analyzes processes that contribute to speciation (e.g., natural selection, founder effect, reproductive isolation).	S.Genetic Isolation and Speciation; S.Other Causes of Speciation	Covered	9	2	5	0	Covered by 2 topics (9 questions, 2 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos).
F. Analyzes the development of isolating mechanisms that discourage hybridization between species (e.g., species’ recognition marks, behavioral displays, ecological separation, seasonal breeding).	S.Reproductive Isolation; S.Ecological Separation	Covered	11	2	15	0	Covered by 2 topics (11 questions, 2 materials, 15 cards, 0 videos).

SMR III.011 The teacher understands evidence for evolutionary change during Earth’s history.

39 Qs6 Materials25 Cards0 VideosPartially covered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Notes
A. Analyzes how fossils, DNA sequences, anatomical similarities, physiological similarities and embryology provide evidence of both common origin and change in populations and species.	S.Other Causes of Speciation; S.Macroevolution Evidence; S.Macroevolution Evidence - Advanced	Covered	20	3	13	Covered by 3 topics (20 questions, 3 materials, 13 cards, 0 videos).
B. Understands the relationship between environmental change, mutations and adaptations of an organism over many generations.	S.Genetic Isolation and Speciation	Partially covered	7	1	2	Partial coverage by 1 topic (7 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
C. Identifies major developments in the evolutionary history of life (e.g., formation of organic molecules, self-replication, backbones, vascular tissue, colonization of the land).	S.Earth's History - Evolutionary History	Partially covered	4	1	3	Partial coverage by 1 topic (4 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
D. Understands theories regarding the causes of extinction of species and the pace and mode of evolutionary change (e.g., punctuated equilibrium, mass extinctions, adaptive radiation).	S.Earth's History - Evolutionary History; S.Earth's History - Key Events	Covered	12	2	10	Covered by 2 topics (12 questions, 2 materials, 10 cards, 0 videos).

DIVERSITY OF LIFE (DOMAIN IV) Partially covered

SMR IV.012 The teacher understands similarities and differences between living organisms and how taxonomic systems are used to organize and interpret the diversity of life.

68 Qs8 Materials29 Cards0 VideosPartially covered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Notes
A. Compares and contrasts structural and physiological adaptations of plants and animals living in various aquatic and terrestrial environments (e.g., freshwater and marine, forest and plain, desert and tundra).	S.Major Biomes - Plant Adaptations; S.Major Biomes - Animal Adaptations	Covered	10	2	0	Covered by 2 topics (10 questions, 2 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos).
B. Understands the relationship between environmental changes in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems and adaptive changes in organisms inhabiting those ecosystems.	S.Environment as a Pressure	Partially covered	3	1	1	Partial coverage by 1 topic (3 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
C. Explains the uses and limitations of classification schemes.	S.Taxonomical Systems	Partially covered	7	1	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (7 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
D. Relates taxonomic classification to evolutionary history and knows how to distinguish between traits that are taxonomically useful (e.g., homologous traits) and those that are not (e.g., convergent traits).	S.Evolution and Taxonomic Systems	Partially covered	2	1	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (2 questions, 1 materials, 0 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
E. Analyzes relationships among organisms to develop a model of a hierarchical classification system and knows how to classify aquatic and terrestrial organisms at several taxonomic levels (e.g., species, phylum/division, kingdom) by using dichotomous keys.	S.Major Groups of Eukaryotic Life; S.Dichotomous Keys	Covered	38	2	21	Covered by 2 topics (38 questions, 2 materials, 21 cards, 0 videos).
F. Identifies distinguishing characteristics of domains and kingdoms, including eubacteria, archaebacteria, protists, fungi, plants and animals.	S.Major Groups of Eukaryotic Life; S.Major Groups of Bacterial Life	Covered	40	2	27	Covered by 2 topics (40 questions, 2 materials, 27 cards, 0 videos).

SMR IV.013 The teacher understands that, at all levels of nature, living systems are found within other living systems, each with its own boundaries and limits.

179 Qs16 Materials82 Cards7 VideosCovered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Vids	Notes
A. Identifies the basic requirements (e.g., nutrients, oxygen, water, carbon dioxide) necessary for various organisms to carry out life functions.	S.Requirements of Life	Covered	10	1	5	1	Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 1 videos).
B. Compares how various organisms obtain, transform, transport, release, eliminate and store energy and matter.	S.Habitats and Niches; S.Habitats and Niches - Advanced; S.Roles In Food Chain; S.Food Webs	Covered	52	4	22	2	Covered by 4 topics (52 questions, 4 materials, 22 cards, 2 videos).
C. Analyzes characteristics, functions and relationships of systems in animals, including humans (e.g., digestive, circulatory, nervous, endocrine, reproductive, integumentary, skeletal, respiratory, muscular, excretory, immune systems).	S.Human Body Systems; S.Vaccines	Covered	30	2	13	1	Covered by 2 topics (30 questions, 2 materials, 13 cards, 1 videos).
D. Analyzes characteristics, functions and relationships of systems in plants (e.g., transport, control, reproductive, nutritional, structural systems).	S.Plant Systems Basics; S.Plant Systems - Cross Sections; S.Plant Transportation; S.Plant Reproduction	Covered	49	4	31	2	Covered by 4 topics (49 questions, 4 materials, 31 cards, 2 videos).
E. Identifies methods of reproduction, growth and development of various plants and animals.	S.Growth and Development; S.Plant Growth; S.Metamorphosis; S.Asexual Reproduction; S.Sexual Reproduction	Covered	38	5	15	1	Covered by 5 topics (38 questions, 5 materials, 15 cards, 1 videos).

SMR IV.014 The teacher understands the processes by which organisms maintain homeostasis.

76 Qs7 Materials18 Cards0 VideosPartially covered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Notes
A. Explains the importance of maintaining a stable internal environment.	S.Homeostasis	Covered	15	1	1	Covered by 1 topic (15 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos).
B. Describes the relationships among internal feedback mechanisms in maintaining homeostasis.	S.Structures and Processes of Homeostasis; S.Positive and Negative Feedback	Covered	26	2	4	Covered by 2 topics (26 questions, 2 materials, 4 cards, 0 videos).
C. Identifies anatomical structures and physiological processes in a variety of organisms that function to maintain homeostasis in the face of changing environmental conditions.	S.Structures and Processes of Homeostasis; S.Structures and Processes of Homeostasis - Advanced	Covered	28	2	2	Covered by 2 topics (28 questions, 2 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos).
D. Analyzes the importance of nutrition, environmental conditions and physical exercise on health in humans and other organisms.	S.Healthy and Unhealthy Lifestyles; S.Digestion and Excretory; S.Nutrition	Covered	28	3	15	Covered by 3 topics (28 questions, 3 materials, 15 cards, 0 videos).
E. Analyzes the role of viruses and microorganisms in maintaining or disrupting homeostasis in different organisms (e.g., the role of bacteria in digestion, diseases of plants and animals).	None	Coverage gap identified	0	0	0	No matching topic found in the study guide.

SMR IV.015 The teacher understands the relationship between biology and behavior.

26 Qs5 Materials20 Cards1 VideosPartially covered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Vids	Notes
A. Understands how the behavior of organisms, including humans, is in response to internal and external stimuli.	S.Plant Stimuli Responses; S.Animal Stimuli Responses	Covered	7	2	5	0	Covered by 2 topics (7 questions, 2 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos).
B. Recognizes that behavior in many animals is determined by a combination of genetic and learned factors.	S.Stimuli	Covered	8	1	4	1	Covered by 1 topic (8 questions, 1 materials, 4 cards, 1 videos).
C. Identifies adaptive advantages of innate and learned patterns of behavior.	S.Stimuli - Effect on Evolution	Partially covered	3	1	3	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (3 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
D. Explains mediating factors in innate (e.g., imprinting, hormonal system) and learned (e.g., classical conditioning, play) behavior.	S.Stimuli - Mediating Factors	Covered	8	1	11	0	Covered by 1 topic (8 questions, 1 materials, 11 cards, 0 videos).
E. Understands concepts linking behavior and natural selection (e.g., kin selection, courtship behavior, altruism).	S.Stimuli - Effect on Evolution	Partially covered	3	1	3	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (3 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.

INTERDEPENDENCE OF LIFE AND ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS (DOMAIN V) Partially covered

SMR V.016 The teacher understands the relationships between abiotic and biotic factors of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, habitats and biomes, including the flow of matter and energy.

68 Qs7 Materials28 Cards3 VideosPartially covered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Vids	Notes
A. Analyzes types, sources and flow of energy through different trophic levels (e.g., producers, consumers, decomposers) and between organisms and the physical environment in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.	S.Roles In Food Chain	Covered	17	1	8	1	Covered by 1 topic (17 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 1 videos).
B. Analyzes the flow of energy and the cycling of matter through biogeochemical cycles (e.g., carbon, water, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus) in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.	S.Carbon Cycle; S.Nitrogen Cycle; S.Oxygen Cycle; S.Phosphorus Cycle	Covered	38	4	10	2	Covered by 4 topics (38 questions, 4 materials, 10 cards, 2 videos).
C. Understands the concept of limiting factors (e.g., light intensity, temperature, mineral availability) and the effects that they have on the productivity and complexity of different ecosystems (e.g., tropical forest versus taiga, continental shelf versus deep ocean).	S.Growth Factors - Advanced	Partially covered	7	1	3	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (7 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
D. Explains the relationship among abiotic characteristics of different biomes and the adaptations, variations, tolerances and roles of indigenous plants and animals in those biomes.	S.Major Biomes	Covered	6	1	8	0	Covered by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 8 cards, 0 videos).

SMR V.017 The teacher understands the interdependence and interactions of living things in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.

102 Qs9 Materials40 Cards5 VideosPartially covered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Vids	Notes
A. Understands the concepts of ecosystem, biome, community, habitat and niche.	S.Ecological Organization	Covered	10	1	6	1	Covered by 1 topic (10 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos).
B. Analyzes interactions of organisms, including humans, in the production and consumption of energy (e.g., food chains, food webs, food pyramids) in aquatic and terrestrial 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).
C. Understands interspecific interactions in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems (e.g., predator-prey relationships, competition, parasitism, commensalism, mutualism) and how they affect ecosystem structure.	S.Types of Relationships; S.Competition	Covered	28	2	13	2	Covered by 2 topics (28 questions, 2 materials, 13 cards, 2 videos).
D. Identifies indigenous plants and animals, assesses their roles in an ecosystem and describes their relationships in different types of environments (e.g., freshwater, continental shelf, deep ocean, forest, desert, plains, tundra).	S.Wildlife Impact on Ecosystems	Partially covered	6	1	2	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
E. Analyzes how the introduction, removal or reintroduction of an organism may alter the food chain, affect existing populations and influence natural selection in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.	S.Wildlife Impact on Ecosystems	Partially covered	6	1	2	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
F. Evaluates the importance of biodiversity in an ecosystem and identifies changes that may occur if biodiversity is increased or reduced in an ecosystem.	S.Effect of Biodiversity Changes	Partially covered	6	1	2	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
G. Understands types and processes of ecosystem change over time in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems (e.g., equilibrium, cyclical change, succession) and the effects of human activity on ecosystem change.	S.Ecological Succession; S.Cyclical Changes	Covered	11	2	3	0	Covered by 2 topics (11 questions, 2 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos).
H. Explains the significance of plants in different types of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.	None	Coverage gap identified	0	0	0	0	No matching topic found in the study guide.

SMR V.018 The teacher understands the relationship between carrying capacity and changes in populations and ecosystems.

23 Qs6 Materials23 Cards1 VideosPartially covered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Vids	Notes
A. Identifies basic characteristics of populations in an ecosystem (e.g., age pyramid, density, patterns of distribution).	S.Population Pyramids; S.Density Factors and Patterns	Covered	7	2	7	0	Covered by 2 topics (7 questions, 2 materials, 7 cards, 0 videos).
B. Compares concepts of population dynamics, including exponential growth, logistic (i.e., limited) growth and cycling (e.g., boom-and-bust cycles).	S.Growth Factors	Covered	12	1	6	1	Covered by 1 topic (12 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos).
C. Relates carrying capacity to population dynamics, including human population growth.	S.Growth Factors; S.Human Population Patterns	Covered	12	2	10	1	Covered by 2 topics (12 questions, 2 materials, 10 cards, 1 videos).
D. Analyzes the impact of density-dependent and density-independent factors (e.g., geographic locales, natural events, diseases, birth and death rates) on populations.	S.Density Factors and Patterns	Partially covered	4	1	6	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (4 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
E. Compares r- and K-selected reproductive strategies (e.g., survivorship curves).	S.R vs K strategies; S.R vs K strategies - Survivorship Curves	Covered	4	2	6	0	Covered by 2 topics (4 questions, 2 materials, 6 cards, 0 videos).

SCIENCE LEARNING, INSTRUCTION AND ASSESSMENT (DOMAIN VI) Partially covered

SMR VI.019 The teacher understands research-based theoretical and practical knowledge about teaching science, how students learn science and the role of scientific inquiry in science instruction.

119 Qs14 Materials53 Cards1 VideosPartially covered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Vids	Notes
A. Knows research-based theories about how students develop scientific understanding and how developmental characteristics, prior knowledge, experience and attitudes of students influence science learning.	S.Differentiation	Partially covered	6	1	3	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (6 questions, 1 materials, 3 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
B. Understands the importance of respecting student diversity by planning activities that are inclusive and selecting and adapting science curricula, content, instructional materials and activities to meet the interests, knowledge, understanding, abilities, possible career paths and experiences of all students, including English-language learners.	S.ELL; S.Diversity	Covered	9	2	1	0	Covered by 2 topics (9 questions, 2 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos).
C. Knows how to plan and implement strategies to encourage student self-motivation and engagement in their own learning (e.g., linking inquiry-based investigations to students’ prior knowledge, focusing inquiry-based instruction on issues relevant to students, developing instructional materials using situations from students’ daily lives, fostering collaboration among students).	S.Engagement	Covered	11	1	5	0	Covered by 1 topic (11 questions, 1 materials, 5 cards, 0 videos).
D. Knows how to use a variety of instructional strategies to ensure all students comprehend content-related texts, including how to locate, retrieve and retain information from a range of texts and technologies.	ELA.Cross-Curricular Applications - Academic Vocabulary (Science); ELA.Cross-Curricular Applications - Reading Comprehension (Science)	Covered	16	2	27	0	Covered by 2 topics (16 questions, 2 materials, 27 cards, 0 videos).
E. Understands the science teacher’s role in developing the total school program by planning and implementing science instruction that incorporates schoolwide objectives and the statewide curriculum as defined in the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS).	S.Schoolwide Science TEKS	Partially covered	0	1	1	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (0 questions, 1 materials, 1 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.
F. Knows how to design and manage the learning environment (e.g., individual, small-group, whole-class settings) to focus and support student inquiries and to provide the time, space and resources for all students to participate in field, laboratory, experimental and nonexperimental scientific investigation.	S.Active Learning; S.Inquiry; S.Prelab Teaching Activities; S.Technology for Real-World Applications	Covered	46	4	10	1	Covered by 4 topics (46 questions, 4 materials, 10 cards, 1 videos).
G. Understands the rationale for using active learning and inquiry methods in science instruction and how to model scientific attitudes such as curiosity, openness to new ideas and skepticism.	S.Active Learning; S.Inquiry	Covered	34	2	10	1	Covered by 2 topics (34 questions, 2 materials, 10 cards, 1 videos).
H. nows principles and procedures for designing and conducting an inquiry-based scientific investigation (e.g., making observations; generating questions; researching and reviewing current knowledge in light of existing evidence; choosing tools to gather and analyze evidence; proposing answers, explanations and predictions; communicating and defending results).	S.Activities for Inquiry - Secondary	Covered	17	1	12	0	Covered by 1 topic (17 questions, 1 materials, 12 cards, 0 videos).
I. Knows how to assist students with generating, refining, focusing and testing scientific questions and hypotheses.	S.Activities for Inquiry - Secondary	Covered	17	1	12	0	Covered by 1 topic (17 questions, 1 materials, 12 cards, 0 videos).
J. Knows strategies for assisting students in learning to identify, refine and focus scientific ideas and questions guiding an inquiry-based scientific investigation; to develop, analyze and evaluate different explanations for a given scientific result; and to identify potential sources of error in an inquiry-based scientific investigation	S.Activities for Inquiry - Secondary	Covered	17	1	12	0	Covered by 1 topic (17 questions, 1 materials, 12 cards, 0 videos).
K. Understands how to implement inquiry strategies designed to promote the use of higher-level thinking skills, logical reasoning and scientific problem solving in order to move students from concrete to more abstract understanding.	S.Critical Thinking; S.Activities For Critical Thinking; S.Activities for Inquiry - Secondary	Covered	31	3	13	0	Covered by 3 topics (31 questions, 3 materials, 13 cards, 0 videos).
L. Knows how to guide students in making systematic observations and measurements.	S.Activities for Inquiry - Secondary	Covered	17	1	12	0	Covered by 1 topic (17 questions, 1 materials, 12 cards, 0 videos).
M. Knows how to sequence learning activities in a way that uncovers common misconceptions, allows students to build upon their prior knowledge and challenges them to expand their understanding of science.	S.Activities for Inquiry - Secondary	Covered	17	1	12	0	Covered by 1 topic (17 questions, 1 materials, 12 cards, 0 videos).

SMR VI.020 The teacher knows how to monitor and assess science learning in laboratory, field and classroom settings.

74 Qs5 Materials19 Cards3 VideosPartially covered

Official Competency	Matching 240 Topics	Alignment	Qs	Mats	Cards	Vids	Notes
A. Knows how to use formal and informal assessments of student performance and products (e.g., projects, laboratory and field journals, rubrics, portfolios, student profiles, checklists) to evaluate student participation in and understanding of inquiry-based scientific investigations.	S.Assessment and Instruction - Science	Covered	42	1	6	1	Covered by 1 topic (42 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos).
B. Understands the relationship between assessment and instruction in the science curriculum (e.g., designing assessments to match learning objectives, using assessment results to inform instructional practice).	S.Assessment and Instruction - Science	Covered	42	1	6	1	Covered by 1 topic (42 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos).
C. Knows the importance of monitoring and assessing students’ understanding of science concepts and skills on an ongoing basis by using a variety of appropriate assessment methods (e.g., performance assessment, self-assessment, peer assessment, formal/informal assessment).	S.Differentiation; S.Assessment and Instruction - Science; S.Rubrics in Assessment	Covered	55	3	11	1	Covered by 3 topics (55 questions, 3 materials, 11 cards, 1 videos).
D. Understands the purposes, characteristics and uses of various types of assessment in science, including formative and summative assessments, and the importance of limiting the use of an assessment to its intended purpose.	S.Assessment and Instruction - Science	Covered	42	1	6	1	Covered by 1 topic (42 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos).
E. Understands strategies for assessing students’ prior knowledge and misconceptions about science and how to use those assessments to develop effective ways to address the misconceptions.	S.Misconceptions	Covered	14	1	2	1	Covered by 1 topic (14 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 1 videos).
F. Understands characteristics of assessments, such as reliability, validity and the absence of bias in order to evaluate assessment instruments and their results.	S.Fair Assessment	Covered	5	1	6	1	Covered by 1 topic (5 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos).
G. Understands the role of assessment as a learning experience for students and strategies for engaging students in meaningful self-assessment.	None	Coverage gap identified	0	0	0	0	No matching topic found in the study guide.
H. Recognizes the importance of selecting assessment instruments and methods that provide all students with adequate opportunities to demonstrate their achievements.	S.Assessment and Instruction - Science	Covered	42	1	6	1	Covered by 1 topic (42 questions, 1 materials, 6 cards, 1 videos).
I. Recognizes the importance of clarifying teacher expectations by sharing evaluation criteria and assessment results with students.	S.Rubrics in Assessment	Partially covered	7	1	2	0	Partial coverage by 1 topic (7 questions, 1 materials, 2 cards, 0 videos); limited supporting content.

How 240 Creates The TExES Life Science 7-12 (238) Study Guide

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Every 240 study guide starts with the official exam framework. From there, we organize lessons, practice, and study tools around the categories the exam uses to measure candidate knowledge.

1

Review the official exam framework

We begin with the standards, domains, competencies, objectives, or content categories published by the testing authority.

2

Map the tested categories

We map every major area the exam is designed to cover so the guide reflects the real structure of the test.

3

Build lessons around tested content

We create study materials to support the official blueprint, not broad filler content.

4

Cross-check practice against exam expectations

We review practice content against the framework and real exam patterns so preparation stays targeted.

5

Review and update as standards change

When official frameworks change, we review guides and update alignment as needed.

Reviewed by subject-matter experts and maintained to reflect current standards.

Why 240 Is Better Than Other Generic Study Guides

Not all study guides are built the same way. Here is what separates a test-aligned guide from a generic one — and why it matters when you are preparing for the TExES Life Science 7-12.

Generic

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

Test-aligned

240 Test-Aligned TExES 238 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 Life Science 7-12 Study Guide

The questions teacher candidates ask us most often about the TExES Life Science 7-12 study guide.

1

Is 240 a good study guide for TExES Life Science 7-12?

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

2

How closely does 240 align to the TExES 238 exam?

This guide is 87% aligned based on a competency-by-competency review of the official framework and the study resources included in the guide.

3

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.

4

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.

240's TExES Life Science 7-12 Study Guide Is 87% Test-Aligned