FTCE Middle Grades Science 5-9 (004) study plan

Map the Physical Science domain into its four clusters (matter and atomic structure, chemical reactions, forces and motion, energy and waves) and rank them by your current confidence after a timed 20-question self-diagnostic.

Define and correctly apply the core vocabulary of matter: atom, element, compound, mixture, homogeneous versus heterogeneous, and distinguish physical from chemical change using ten original examples you write yourself.

Read a periodic table to extract atomic number, mass number, group, period, and valence electron count for the first 20 elements, then predict ion charge for main-group metals and nonmetals.

Draw Bohr and Lewis dot models for six common atoms and explain in writing why group number predicts reactivity better than period number.

Balance ten chemical equations of increasing difficulty and classify each as synthesis, decomposition, single replacement, double replacement, or combustion.

Apply the law of conservation of mass to solve limiting-reactant and simple stoichiometry problems stated in moles and grams.

Distinguish ionic from covalent bonding and predict properties (melting point, conductivity, solubility) for each from structure alone.

Explain the pH scale, identify acids and bases by formula, and describe one neutralization reaction in particle terms.

State and apply Newton's three laws to classroom-scale scenarios, including free-body diagrams for objects on inclines and in free fall.

Compute speed, velocity, acceleration, force, work, power, and mechanical energy, keeping units consistent through each calculation.

Differentiate kinetic from potential energy and trace energy transformations in at least three systems (roller coaster, pendulum, falling object).

Describe wave properties (wavelength, frequency, amplitude, speed) and contrast transverse with longitudinal waves, including the electromagnetic spectrum's order.

Compare prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and match six organelles (nucleus, mitochondrion, ribosome, chloroplast, cell membrane, cell wall) to their functions and to the cell types that contain them.

Explain the inputs and outputs of photosynthesis and cellular respiration and state where in the cell each occurs.

Describe the stages of mitosis in order and contrast mitosis with meiosis in terms of chromosome number and purpose.

Apply Mendelian genetics to solve monohybrid and dihybrid crosses, including Punnett squares, genotype versus phenotype ratios, and simple pedigrees.

Trace the flow of matter and energy through a food web, distinguishing producers, consumers, decomposers, and trophic levels, and explain why energy decreases at each level.

Explain natural selection as a mechanism: variation, heritability, differential survival, and change in allele frequency over generations.

Classify organisms using binomial nomenclature and a dichotomous key, and distinguish the domains and kingdoms by defining characteristics.

Describe the structure and function of DNA, the role of genes and chromosomes, and how mutation introduces variation.

Explain homeostasis with two specific feedback examples (body temperature, blood glucose).

Diagram Earth's internal layers by composition and physical property and relate each layer to density, temperature, and seismic-wave behavior.

Explain plate tectonics as evidence-based theory: continental drift, seafloor spreading, and the three boundary types with the landforms and hazards each produces.

Classify rocks as igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic and place each in the rock cycle, including the processes that transform one into another.

Interpret a simple weather map: identify fronts, pressure systems, and the resulting weather, and explain how unequal heating drives wind and the water cycle.

Describe the Earth-Moon-Sun system: causes of seasons, moon phases, eclipses, and tides, and correct the common misconception that distance causes seasons.

Compare the planets of the solar system by composition, size, and orbital position, and distinguish inner from outer planets.

Explain the life cycle of a star and cite evidence for the Big Bang (redshift, cosmic microwave background).

Design a controlled experiment for a given question, identifying independent, dependent, and controlled variables, plus a testable hypothesis and a valid control group.

Evaluate a data table or graph for accuracy, precision, and bias, and explain why a conclusion may exceed the evidence.

Review the Nature of Science practices: scientific method, measurement and SI units, significant figures, scientific notation, and the difference between theory and law.

Take two full-length timed practice exams and record your score by domain to identify remaining weak clusters.

Re-teach your three weakest clusters by writing your own explanation and practice questions for each, without looking at notes.

Build a final one-page formula and vocabulary sheet spanning all four domains for last-minute review.