NYSTCE Biology CST study guide
NYSTCE Biology CST · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The NYSTCE Biology Content Specialty Test is one of the New York State Teacher Certification Examinations, the Content Specialty Tests (CSTs) used in New York's educator certification pathway. It is intended for candidates seeking certification to teach biology in New York schools; testing requirements depend on the certification type sought, so candidates should confirm which tests their own certification pathway requires before registering. The NYSTCE Biology CST study guide has 6 sections and about 2,083 words.
01Foundations of Scientific Inquiry and the Nature of Science
The NYSTCE Biology CST uses this domain to test whether you can design, interpret, and critique biological investigations. Questions often present an experiment, graph, or claim and ask you to identify variables, evaluate evidence, or choose valid conclusions.
384 words, about 2 min02Cell Biology and Biochemistry
This domain tests the molecular basis of life and the structures that carry out cellular functions. Expect questions on water properties, macromolecules, enzyme kinetics, membrane transport, organelles, the cell cycle, and the major energy pathways.
380 words, about 2 min03Genetics and Evolution
This domain combines inheritance, molecular genetics, and evolutionary mechanisms. The exam asks you to trace information from DNA to phenotype, solve inheritance problems, and explain how populations change over time.
359 words, about 2 min04Biological Diversity
This domain tests classification, phylogeny, and the distinguishing features of major groups. Questions ask you to place organisms in domains and kingdoms, interpret cladograms, and compare viruses, bacteria, protists, fungi, plants, and animals.
312 words, about 2 min05Plant and Animal Structure and Function
This domain tests how multicellular organisms maintain homeostasis through specialized tissues, organs, and systems. Expect questions on plant transport, transpiration, hormones, and on animal circulation, respiration, digestion, excretion, nervous control, endocrine signaling, immunity, and reproduction.
332 words, about 2 min06Ecology
This domain tests interactions among organisms and their environments. Questions cover population growth, carrying capacity, trophic levels, energy flow, biogeochemical cycles, symbiosis, succession, and human impact.
316 words, about 2 min