For aspiring nursing and allied health students, the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) serves as a crucial gateway to their chosen programs. Among its sections, the science portion often stands as a significant hurdle.
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This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of what to expect from the TEAS 6 science questions, offers effective preparation strategies, and highlights the key differences between the current TEAS 6 exam and the upcoming TEAS 7 exam.
TEAS 6 science questions often determine how well-prepared students are for the rigorous science-based curriculum of nursing and allied health programs.
A Note on TEAS 6 vs. TEAS 7
Test-takers need to be aware that the TEAS 6 has been phased out and replaced by the TEAS 7.
While this guide focuses on the framework of the TEAS 6 as requested, the fundamental scientific knowledge and reasoning skills required remain highly relevant.
Key changes in the TEAS 7 science section include a shift in the number of questions and a greater emphasis on distinct Biology and Chemistry topics over the broader “Life and Physical Sciences” category.
| Feature | TEAS 6 | TEAS 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Total Questions | 53 questions | 50 questions |
| Scored Questions | 47 scored questions | 44 scored questions |
| Unscored (Pretest) Questions | 6 unscored questions | 6 unscored questions |
| Time Limit | 63 minutes | 60 minutes |
| Question Types | All multiple-choice | Multiple-choice, multiple-select (select all that apply), fill-in-the-blank, ordered response, and hot spot questions |
| Content Categories | • Human Anatomy & Physiology • Life and Physical Sciences • Scientific Reasoning | • Human Anatomy & Physiology • Biology • Chemistry • Scientific Reasoning |
| Content Breakdown (Scored Questions) | • Human Anatomy & Physiology: 32 questions • Life and Physical Sciences: 8 questions • Scientific Reasoning: 7 questions | • Human Anatomy & Physiology: 18 questions • Biology: 9 questions • Chemistry: 8 questions • Scientific Reasoning: 9 questions |
1. What Is the TEAS 6 Science Questions?
The science section of the TEAS exam is designed to assess a student’s foundational knowledge in various scientific disciplines that are essential for a healthcare career.
- Structure and Timing: The TEAS 6 science section traditionally consisted of 53 multiple-choice questions, which students were given 63 minutes to complete. This timing works out to just over a minute per question, making time management a crucial skill. The current TEAS 7 consists of 50 questions to be answered within 60 minutes.
- Topics Covered: The TEAS 6 science section was primarily divided into three core areas:
- Human Anatomy & Physiology: This is the most significant and most heavily weighted portion of the exam. It covers the body’s major organ systems, their functions, and how they interact.
- Life & Physical Sciences: This category encompasses foundational concepts in biology (like cell theory, genetics, and macromolecules) and basic principles of chemistry and physics relevant to biological systems.
- Scientific Reasoning: This area tests the ability to think like a scientist. It includes questions on the scientific method, experimental design, data interpretation, and drawing logical conclusions.
2. Breakdown of TEAS 6 Science Question Types
The questions on the TEAS science exam can be categorized by the thinking they require:
- Knowledge Recall: These are straightforward questions that test your memory of facts, definitions, and concepts. For example, you might be asked to identify a specific organ’s function or define a scientific term.
- Application: These questions require you to apply a scientific principle to a given scenario. You might be presented with a situation and asked to predict an outcome based on your understanding of a biological or chemical process.
- Scientific Reasoning: These questions assess your ability to analyze scientific information. This could involve interpreting graphs and charts, evaluating the validity of an experiment, or identifying the relationship between variables.
3. Sample TEAS 6-Style Science Questions (with Explanations)
To give you a better idea of what to expect, here are some original practice questions modeled after the types of questions on the exam.
Anatomy & Physiology
- Question: Which of the following correctly describes the path of blood from the heart to the body and back?
- A) Left Ventricle → Aorta → Arteries → Capillaries → Veins → Vena Cava → Right Atrium
- B) Right Ventricle → Pulmonary Artery → Lungs → Pulmonary Vein → Left Atrium
- C) Left Atrium → Left Ventricle → Vena Cava → Veins → Capillaries → Arteries
- D) Right Atrium → Right Ventricle → Aorta → Arteries → Capillaries → Veins
- Explanation: The correct answer is A. This question tests your knowledge of the circulatory system. The left ventricle pumps oxygenated blood into the aorta, which then branches into smaller arteries that lead to capillaries, where gas exchange occurs. Deoxygenated blood then returns to the heart through the veins, collecting in the vena cava before entering the right atrium.
Chemistry/Biology Basics
- Question: In a molecule of water (H₂O), the bond between the oxygen atom and a hydrogen atom is a(n):
- A) Ionic bond
- B) Covalent bond
- C) Hydrogen bond
- D) Metallic bond
- Explanation: The correct answer is B. A covalent bond is formed when atoms share electrons. In a water molecule, oxygen shares electrons with two hydrogen atoms. Hydrogen bonds form between water molecules, not within them.
Scientific Method Reasoning
- Question: A scientist wants to test the effect of a new fertilizer on plant growth. She takes two identical plants. Plant A is given the new fertilizer, while Plant B is given only water. Both plants receive the same amount of sunlight and are kept at the same temperature. In this experiment, what is the independent variable?
- A) The amount of sunlight
- B) The growth of the plants
- C) The use of the new fertilizer
- D) The temperature
- Explanation: The correct answer is C. The independent variable is the factor that the scientist intentionally changes or manipulates to observe its effect. In this case, the scientist is altering whether the plant receives the fertilizer. The plant growth is the dependent variable (what is being measured).
4. Common Challenges Students Face
Many students find the science section to be the most demanding part of the TEAS exam. Common difficulties include:
- Memorizing Complex Systems: The sheer volume of information related to the cardiovascular, endocrine, and nervous systems can be overwhelming.
- Distinguishing Between Similar Terms: Concepts like mitosis vs. meiosis, or transcription vs. translation, can be easily confused under pressure.
- Time Management: With a little over a minute per question, students can feel rushed and may not have enough time to read and consider each question carefully.
5. Proven Study Tips for TEAS 6 Science Preparation
A structured and strategic approach can make all the difference in your performance.
- Use Mnemonics for Anatomy: Creating memorable phrases or acronyms can be incredibly helpful for memorizing lists and processes. For example, to remember the order of heart valves, some students use “Toilet Paper My Ass” (Tricuspid, Pulmonary, Mitral, Aortic).
- Embrace Flashcards and Spaced Repetition: Utilize physical or digital flashcards (such as those on Quizlet or Brainscape) to reinforce key terms and concepts. Spaced repetition, where you review material at increasing intervals, is a scientifically proven method for long-term retention.
- Focus on Your Weak Spots: After taking a practice test, analyze your results to identify the areas where you struggled the most. Dedicate extra study time to these topics to turn your weaknesses into strengths.
- Balance Your Prep: While the science section is challenging, don’t neglect the other sections of the TEAS (Reading, Math, and English). A balanced study plan that allocates time for all four subjects is essential for a high overall score.
6. Best Resources to Practice TEAS Science Questions
There is a wealth of resources available to help you prepare. It’s often beneficial to use a combination of materials.
- TEAS Practice Books: Look for well-reviewed study guides from reputable publishers, such as Mometrix or Smart Edition Academy. These books offer comprehensive content reviews and full-length practice tests.
- Online Quizzes and Flashcards: Websites like TestPrep-Online, Union Test Prep, and various nursing school blogs offer free practice questions and quizzes. YouTube channels such as “Science with Susanna” can be excellent for visual learners.
- Study Groups and Apps: Studying with peers can provide support and new perspectives. Mobile apps from ATI or other test prep companies allow for convenient, on-the-go practice.
7. Final Thoughts
Preparing for the TEAS science section is a marathon, not a sprint. Success hinges on creating a structured study plan and maintaining consistency in your efforts.
By understanding the exam’s format, anticipating the types of questions, and employing effective study strategies, you can develop the knowledge and confidence necessary to achieve a high score.
Remember that consistent practice with TEAS 6-style science questions is the key to feeling prepared and ready on test day.
To get started on your journey, check out our study guides and resources at hstech.io.
