CSET Biology/Life Science Exam

CSET Biology/Life Science Exam Study Guide

The California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET) is an exam presented by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) for educators who wish to teach in the state of California officially. The CSET Biology/Life Sciences exam measures aspiring educators’ knowledge and understanding on the subject matter hence candidates should study well for the exam. The CSET Biology/Life Sciences Exam contains two subtests with a mix of multiple-choice and constructive-response questions.

If an applicant fails to pass any of the subtests, then he/she may retake the exam only after a period of 45 days. Score of the CSET Biology/Life Science Exam are valid for a period of 5 years.

Eligibility for CSET Biology/Life Science Exam

To be eligible to take the CSET Biology/Life Science Exam, applicants must first meet certain eligibility requirements presented by the board. Applicants must prove their competencies on the subject since CSET provides credentials for educators interested in teaching in the middle and secondary grades. Above all, candidates should pass BOTH subtests or else they will not be allowed to get a certification.

Format of CSET Biology/Life Science Exam

The CSET Biology/Life Science Exam is a crucial test that determines the amount of knowledge in the educator. Topics covered in the CSET Biology/Life Science Exam are: structure of cell, genetic science, theory of evolution, ecology. More in depth topics to be covered in the exam are types of cells, reproduction of cells, anatomy and physiology of animal cell, chromosomes, inheritance, biotechnology and bioethics, natural selection and varied species, and types of ecosystem and biodiversity. Examinee should review thoroughly these topics as these provide a great weightage on the total marks. The first subtest consists of queries from general science topics while the second subtests consists questions from specialized biology and life sciences.

Questions are of multiple-choice and subjective formats hence the examinee should not only have a decent knowledge base and good decision-making skills, but also a good writing sense. The highest score possible for the exam is 300 points while a minimum of 220 marks is needed to pass the exam and be eligible for a certification.

Scope of CSET Biology/Life Science Exam

The CSET Biology/Life Science Exam tests the educator’s understanding and knowledge needed to be qualified to teach the subject. Subjective answers should be well-written and accurate so as to achieve a high mark. Marking is done by a special educator assigned by the board.