Praxis 5905 Science Digital Study Guide

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Description

Frequently Asked Questions

The Praxis II Science (5905) is the Science subtest within the Elementary Education: Three Subject Bundle (5901). It is designed to measure whether a prospective elementary teacher has the broad scientific knowledge and reasoning skills necessary to teach science at the K–6 level.

The exam is computer delivered and consists of 55 selected-response questions completed in 60 minutes. An on-screen scientific calculator is provided. It is built into the computer-delivered testing system—you may not bring your own calculator.

Because the calculator interface may feel different from a handheld model, you are strongly encouraged to practice using the official version before test day. You can access the practice calculator here.

The test is divided evenly across three major content categories:

  • Earth and Space Science (approximately 17–18 questions, 33%)
  • Life Science (approximately 18–19 questions, 33%)
  • Physical Science (approximately 18–19 questions, 33%)

Across all three categories, questions often assess scientific inquiry skills, such as interpreting data tables, graphs, diagrams, and experimental scenarios. Many items are framed in elementary classroom contexts, requiring you to apply scientific knowledge to teaching situations.

Overall, the 5905 evaluates both foundational science content and your ability to apply that content in an instructional setting.

Most states require a scaled score between 150 and 160, but requirements differ depending on your state’s certification standards. Praxis scores are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score adjusts for slight differences in difficulty between test versions, ensuring fairness across administrations. Because of this scaling process, the number of questions you answer correctly does not directly equal your final reported score.

Always check your state’s Department of Education website to confirm the exact passing score you need. You can access information on passing scores by state on the ETS website.

Begin with the official ETS Praxis 5901 Study Companion, which serves as the blueprint for the 5905 Science subtest. It clearly defines the tested domains, skill expectations, and question formats. Build your study plan directly from those specifications rather than reviewing science content randomly.

Focus on mastering core concepts in Earth and Space Science, Life Science, and Physical Science, with particular attention to scientific inquiry. Many questions require analyzing data from classroom investigations, interpreting diagrams, or identifying the best instructional response based on evidence.

Yes. The Praxis 5903 provides an on-screen scientific calculator for the entire Mathematics and Science subtest. The calculator is built into the computer-delivered testing system—you may not bring your own calculator.

Because the calculator interface may feel different from a handheld model, you are strongly encouraged to practice using the official version before test day. You can access the practice calculator here.