FTCE Middle Grades Science 5-9 (004) study guide
FTCE Middle Grades Science 5-9 (004) · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
Middle Grades General Science 5–9 (004) is one of the Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) listed on the FTCE/FELE program website, fl.nesinc.com. It is the subject-area test associated with the middle grades general science certification area, so it is aimed at candidates preparing to teach science to students in grades five through nine in Florida - typically people coming from a science or science-education degree route or career-changers adding a science field. The exam is organized around four content domains: Nature of Science (18%), Physical Science (28%), Life Science (27%), and Earth and Space Science (27%). Because roughly half the content sits in physical and life science, the test rewards broad, integrated science knowledge rather than deep specialization in one discipline, and it also asks you to reason about experimental design, data, and evidence. The FTCE Middle Grades Science 5-9 (004) study guide has 4 sections and about 1,531 words.
01Nature of Science
The Nature of Science domain tests how scientific questions are framed, how investigations are designed, and how data become evidence. Expect items on variables, controls, measurement, graphs, error, models, and the distinction between theories and laws.
386 words, about 2 min02Physical Science
The Physical Science domain tests matter, atomic structure, chemical reactions, motion, forces, energy, waves, and electricity/magnetism. Middle-grades items emphasize relationships, conservation laws, and correct use of units rather than complex calculation.
384 words, about 2 min03Life Science
The Life Science domain tests cells, heredity, evolution, classification, ecosystems, and human body systems. Items emphasize structure-function relationships, energy flow, reproduction, and evidence for natural selection.
370 words, about 2 min04Earth and Space Science
The Earth and Space Science domain tests Earth’s structure and history, plate tectonics, rocks and the rock cycle, weathering and erosion, the water cycle, atmosphere and weather, climate, oceans, the solar system, seasons, moon phases, tides, and stars. Items often ask you to distinguish long-term cycles from short-term events and to reject common misconceptions.
391 words, about 2 min