AEPA Biology (NT305) study guide
AEPA Biology (NT305) · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The AEPA Biology (NT305) is one of the subject-matter assessments in the Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessments program, the testing system used in Arizona for educator certification. The Biology test is intended for candidates who are preparing to teach biology at the secondary level and who need to demonstrate content knowledge in the subject rather than pedagogical skill alone. The AEPA Biology (NT305) study guide has 5 sections and about 1,454 words.
01Scientific Inquiry and the Nature of Science
Scientific inquiry covers the logic of hypothesis testing, experimental design, and the social process of science. Candidates should be able to distinguish a hypothesis (a testable, falsifiable prediction) from a theory (a broad, well-supported explanatory framework) and from a law (a descriptive regularity).
329 words, about 2 min02Cell Biology and Biochemistry
This domain spans macromolecules (carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids), enzymes, membrane structure and transport, organelles, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, and the cell cycle. Know the four macromolecule classes and their monomers and functions.
282 words, about 1 min03Genetics and Evolution
Genetics includes Mendelian inheritance, Punnett squares, genotype versus phenotype, dominant and recessive alleles, and non-Mendelian patterns (incomplete dominance, codominance, multiple alleles, sex-linked traits). Know the central dogma (DNA to RNA to protein), DNA replication, transcription, translation, and mutation types.
283 words, about 1 min04Organismal Biology: Structure, Function, and Diversity
This domain covers the relationship between structure and function across major groups: plants, animals, fungi, protists, and prokaryotes. Know plant tissues and organs (roots, stems, leaves; xylem and phloem; stomata and transpiration), animal systems (circulation, respiration, digestion, nervous, endocrine, immune, excretory), and homeostasis as regulation of internal conditions.
281 words, about 1 min05Ecology and the Environment
Ecology covers population dynamics, community interactions, energy flow, nutrient cycling, and human environmental impacts. Know population growth models (exponential vs.
279 words, about 1 min