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Middle School Science Praxis Practice Questions

Praxis Middle School Science (5442)Practice with free middle school science Praxis questions covering life science, physical science, and earth and space science. Each question includes a detailed explanation so you actually understand the concepts -- not just memorize answers.

125
Total Questions
2.5 hours
Time Limit
Varies by state (typically 152-162)
Passing Score
~$130
Registration Fee

Free Sample Questions

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

1

In a food web, a population of rabbits is suddenly reduced by disease. Which of the following is the MOST likely immediate effect on the ecosystem?

AA) Predators of rabbits, such as foxes, will increase in population
BB) Plants that rabbits feed on will likely increase due to reduced herbivory
CC) Decomposers in the ecosystem will become extinct
DD) The sun's energy input to the ecosystem will decrease
2

A student heats 200 grams of water from 20 degrees C to 70 degrees C. How much thermal energy was absorbed by the water? (Specific heat of water = 4.18 J/g degrees C)

AA) 8,360 J
BB) 41,800 J
CC) 58,520 J
DD) 83,600 J
3

Which layer of Earth's atmosphere contains the ozone layer that absorbs most of the Sun's ultraviolet radiation?

AA) Troposphere
BB) Stratosphere
CC) Mesosphere
DD) Thermosphere
4

During mitosis, a cell with 46 chromosomes divides. How many chromosomes will each daughter cell contain?

AA) 23
BB) 46
CC) 92
DD) 12
5

A student dissolves 15 grams of salt in 85 grams of water. What is the percent concentration of the resulting solution by mass?

AA) 15%
BB) 17.6%
CC) 12.75%
DD) 85%

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About the Middle School Science Praxis

Format & Structure

Total Questions
125
Time Limit
2.5 hours
Format
Selected-response (multiple choice)

Scoring & Cost

Passing Score
Varies by state (typically 152-162)
Registration Fee
~$130

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Praxis Middle School Science (5442) assessment?

The Praxis Middle School Science (5442) is a content knowledge assessment developed by ETS for aspiring middle school science teachers. It measures your understanding of fundamental science concepts across life science, physical science, earth and space science, and science practices. Many states require a passing score on this assessment for middle school science certification.

How many questions are on the Praxis 5442 Middle School Science assessment?

The Praxis 5442 contains 125 selected-response (multiple-choice) questions. You have 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete all questions. Content is distributed across four main areas: Scientific Inquiry, Methodology, Techniques, and History (about 17%); Life Science (about 31%); Physical Science (about 29%); and Earth and Space Science (about 23%).

What score do I need to pass the middle school science Praxis?

Passing scores vary by state. The score range for the Praxis 5442 is 100-200, and most states set their passing threshold between 152 and 162. For example, some states require a 154 while others may require 159. Always verify the passing score requirement with your specific state's Department of Education before scheduling your assessment.

What topics does the middle school science Praxis cover?

The assessment covers four broad content areas. Life Science includes cell biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, and human body systems. Physical Science covers matter and its properties, chemical reactions, forces, motion, and energy. Earth and Space Science addresses geology, weather, climate, oceanography, and astronomy. There's also a section on scientific inquiry and methodology that spans all content areas.

How much does the Praxis 5442 cost and where can I take it?

The registration fee for the Praxis 5442 is approximately $130 as of 2026. You can take it at Praxis testing centers nationwide or, in many cases, as an at-home assessment through ETS. Additional fees may apply for late registration, date changes, or selecting a different testing center. Some states or school districts may offer partial reimbursement.

How should I study for the middle school science Praxis?

Start with a diagnostic assessment to identify weak areas. Focus your preparation on the highest-weighted content areas -- life science and physical science together make up about 60% of the assessment. Review core concepts from a general middle school science curriculum, including biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science fundamentals. Practice interpreting data tables, graphs, and experimental scenarios since many questions present information in these formats.

Can I use a calculator on the Praxis Middle School Science assessment?

Yes, an on-screen calculator is provided during the Praxis 5442. However, most questions are designed so that complex calculations are not the primary focus. You should still be comfortable with basic math skills like unit conversions, percentages, and interpreting numerical data in scientific contexts.

How often can I retake the Praxis 5442 if I don't pass?

You must wait at least 21 days before retaking the Praxis 5442. There is no limit on total retakes, but you pay the full registration fee each time. After a failed attempt, review your score report carefully -- it breaks down performance by content category so you can target your weak areas before trying again.

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