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General Science Praxis Practice Questions

Praxis General Science: Content Knowledge (5436)Practice with free Praxis 5436 sample questions covering physics, chemistry, biology, and earth science. Each question includes a detailed explanation so you actually understand the reasoning -- not just the right answer.

135
Total Questions
2.5 hours
Time Limit
Varies by state (typically 155-160)
Passing Score
~$146
Registration Fee

Free Sample Questions

Here are 5 free sample questions from our full bank of 250+ General Science Praxis practice questions. Try them out below — click "Show Answer" to reveal the correct response and explanation.

1

A 2.0 kg block slides down a frictionless inclined plane that makes a 30-degree angle with the horizontal. What is the acceleration of the block along the surface of the incline? (g = 9.8 m/s^2)

AA) 3.4 m/s^2
BB) 4.9 m/s^2
CC) 8.5 m/s^2
DD) 9.8 m/s^2
2

Which of the following best explains why the addition of a solute to water raises the boiling point of the solution?

AA) The solute molecules increase the kinetic energy of the water molecules
BB) The solute particles lower the vapor pressure of the solvent, requiring a higher temperature to reach atmospheric pressure
CC) The solute reacts chemically with water to form a compound with a higher boiling point
DD) The solute increases the surface tension of the water, preventing evaporation
3

During DNA replication, which enzyme is primarily responsible for unwinding the double helix at the replication fork?

AA) DNA polymerase
BB) RNA primase
CC) Helicase
DD) Ligase
4

A geologist finds a layer of marine fossils in sedimentary rock located high in a mountain range far from any ocean. Which of the following is the most reasonable explanation?

AA) The fossils were carried to the mountaintop by ancient floods
BB) The rock formed on the ocean floor and was later uplifted by tectonic forces
CC) Marine organisms once lived at high altitudes in shallow pools
DD) The fossils were deposited by glaciers that transported ocean sediments inland
5

An element has an atomic number of 17 and a mass number of 35. How many neutrons does an atom of this element contain?

AA) 17
BB) 18
CC) 35
DD) 52

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About the General Science Praxis

Format & Structure

Total Questions
135
Time Limit
2.5 hours
Format
Multiple choice (selected-response)

Scoring & Cost

Passing Score
Varies by state (typically 155-160)
Registration Fee
~$146

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Praxis 5436 General Science Content Knowledge assessment?

The Praxis 5436 General Science: Content Knowledge assessment measures the science knowledge and competencies needed for beginning secondary science teachers. It covers four main content areas: physical science (physics and chemistry), life science (biology), earth and space science, and science and technology. ETS designed it for candidates seeking licensure to teach general science at the secondary level.

How many questions are on the Praxis 5436, and how long do I have?

The Praxis 5436 contains 135 selected-response (multiple-choice) questions, and you're given 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete them. That works out to roughly one minute per question, so pacing yourself is important. Some questions are straightforward recall, while others require applying concepts or interpreting data -- those naturally take a bit longer.

What score do I need to pass the Praxis General Science assessment?

Passing scores vary by state because each state sets its own cut score for licensure. Most states that require this assessment set the passing score between 155 and 160. You should check with your state's Department of Education or teacher certification office for the exact score required in your area. ETS also lists passing scores by state on their website.

What topics does the Praxis 5436 cover?

The assessment covers four broad content areas. Physical Science includes mechanics, thermodynamics, waves, electricity, atomic structure, chemical reactions, and stoichiometry. Life Science covers cell biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, and human body systems. Earth and Space Science addresses geology, meteorology, oceanography, and astronomy. There's also a Science and Technology section that covers scientific inquiry, experimental design, data interpretation, and the history and nature of science.

How much does it cost to take the Praxis 5436?

The registration fee for the Praxis 5436 is approximately $146 as of 2026. Additional fees may apply for late registration, changing your testing center, or requesting score verification. Some school districts or educator preparation programs offer reimbursement -- it's definitely worth asking your program coordinator before you register.

Can I use a calculator on the Praxis 5436?

Yes, an on-screen graphing calculator is provided during the Praxis 5436 assessment. You cannot bring your own calculator to the testing center. The built-in calculator handles basic arithmetic, trigonometric functions, and graphing. Familiarize yourself with on-screen calculator tools before your assessment day so you're comfortable using them under time pressure.

How should I study for the Praxis General Science assessment?

Start with practice questions to figure out where your gaps are -- most people are stronger in one or two science disciplines and weaker in others. Focus your study time on the areas where you scored lowest. Review foundational concepts in physics, chemistry, biology, and earth science at an introductory college level. Practice interpreting graphs, data tables, and experimental setups, because many questions test application rather than simple recall. A study plan of 4-6 weeks typically works well for most candidates.

What is the difference between Praxis 5436 and Praxis 5412?

Both assessments cover general science content, but the Praxis 5436 (General Science: Content Knowledge) is the current version with 135 questions. The Praxis 5412 was an earlier version of the general science assessment that some states previously required. If your state's certification requirements reference the 5412, check with your state board to confirm whether they've transitioned to the 5436, as most states have updated their requirements.

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