The grade five TAKS science test is a comprehensive assessment of elementary science knowledge that tests basic knowledge acquired in grades two through five. At the elementary level, students should learn how the world around them works through integrated activities and hands-on experience. They must demonstrate a working knowledge of scientific equipment, such as calculators, compasses, thermometers, rulers, balances, hot plates, safety goggles and magnets. The grade five TAKS science assessment covers four main aspects of scientific study: physical science, natural science, life science, and earth and space science. The test contains approximately 50 questions.
The grade eight TAKS science test covers basic scientific knowledge that should be learned in grades six through eight. A 50-question test measures students' understanding of important science concepts taught in middle school. Many of these questions make connections across various scientific disciplines, including physical science, earth/space science and life science. Students should understand how science is relevant to their daily lives and demonstrate a deeper understanding of conceptual ideas. This test builds on elementary concepts and prepares students for high school-level concepts. Students should be familiar with scientific equipment, such as petri dishes, test tubes, microscopes, beakers, weather instruments and telescopes. The objectives of the grade eight TAKS science assessment include the following areas: structures and properties of matter; living systems and the environment; natural of science; earth and space systems; and motions, forces and energies.
The grade 10 TAKS science test measure students' analytical abilities rather than rote memorization skills. The test material is drawn from the Biology and Integrated Physics and Chemistry courses mandated by the Texas legislature. This test also serves as an indicator of students' general scientific skills. Students at this level should be able to understand and apply abstract scientific concepts. Students will need a calculator to complete the exam. The grade 10 TAKS science assessment has five objectives: interdependence of organisms, organization of living systems, structures and properties of matter, the nature of science and forces, motion and energy.
The grade 11 TAKS science test is the exit-level exam that all students must pass prior to graduation. Although the grade 11 test is similar to the grade 10 test, eleventh-grade students are expected to illustrate higher levels of critical thinking skills because they have received more science instruction. For example, both the grade 10 and grade 11 tests require students to examine relationships in food pyramids, food chains and food webs; however, eleventh-grade students must also analyze the flows of energy and matter through various trophic levels. The grade 11 TAKS science objectives include structures and properties, nature of science, organization of living things, interdependence of organisms and energy, motion and forces.