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How the science test is organized
How the science test is organized
In the CAEC science test, the focus is on scientific reasoning and methods — how scientific investigation works. The key outcome is: Identify characteristics of science, such as how scientific ideas are developed through a process of ongoing inquiry.
Nearly all other outcomes are focused on the process of inquiry:
1. Observations, questions and hypothesis
2. Methods and experimental design
3. Data collection and analysis
4. Conclusions and data communication
5. Critical thinking about scientific impacts.
One additional outcome is focused on WHMIS.
How the test items are presented — No sources
How the test items are presented — No sources
Some of the test questions don't have sources. Candidates will have to rely on your background knowledge to respond.
In this example, candidates need to recall or be familiar with general principles of science, also referred to as the characteristics of science.
How the test items are presented — One source with questions
How the test items are presented — One source with questions
Most questions do have sources for candidates to read and interpret. Then, anywhere from one to six questions accompany the source(s). However, to respond to the question, candidates have to apply their knowledge, use particular skills or solve a problem. They won't find an answer simply by reading the source.
Source
Test question
Test question
The science test contains different types of sources to read and interpret. Candidates will see information excerpts, data representations (i.e. charts, tables and graphs), photographs, symbols and measures.
Chart
Information excerpt
Photograph
Information and table
Candidates will also see a couple of questions that require them to measure things using digital tools.
Specific background knowledge candidates will need
Specific background knowledge candidates will need
1. Observations, questions and hypothesis
1. Observations, questions and hypothesis
Distinguish between observations and inferences.
Distinguish between questions that can be investigated through scientific inquiry and questions that cannot be tested through scientific inquiry, such as aesthetic, moral, and ethical judgements, and the supernatural.
Formulate testable questions, for a given situation, that can be investigated through scientific inquiry.
Formulate a hypothesis or prediction based on prior knowledge or an observed pattern of events.
2. Methods and experimental design
2. Methods and experimental design
Determine the design elements of scientific investigations, including control groups and variables (independent, dependent, and controlled).
Explain ways in which reliability, validity, integrity, and credibility of scientific work is maintained, including through scientific methods, placebos, double-blind studies, large sample sizes, random sampling, peer review, and replicating research.
3. Data collection and analysis
3. Data collection and analysis
Identify procedures that set appropriate conditions, limit bias, and use appropriate methods for collecting data.
Evaluate scientific investigations for sources of error and formulate reasonable explanations of the results.
Demonstrate effective selection and use of scientific tools for data collection, such as a ruler, protractor, thermometer, or graduated cylinder.
Select appropriate units of measurement to collect and communicate data, including conversions within Système International d'unités (SI).
Analyze patterns and trends to describe relationships among variables and data.
4. Conclusions and data communication
4. Conclusions and data communication
Visualize and communicate data in appropriate formats, such as tables, graphs, and diagrams.
Estimate information from data, graphs, tables, and spreadsheets.
Identify factors that may introduce bias, such as preconceptions of researchers, funding of research by interest groups, and selective reporting of evidence.
Evaluate scientific investigations for sources of error and formulate reasonable explanations of the results.
Evaluate the reliability, validity, and credibility of scientific investigations.
Evaluate factors that influence scientific research (refer to A Rough Guide to Spotting Bad Science).
5. Critical thinking about scientific impacts
5. Critical thinking about scientific impacts
Transfer conclusions from scientific investigations to everyday life and future investigations.
Identify intended and unintended consequences for humans and the environment emerging from scientific solutions and technologies.
Evaluate risks and benefits of scientific solutions and technologies.
Other (WHMIS)
Other (WHMIS)
Identify the appropriate techniques for storing, handling, and disposing of materials according to WHMIS 2015 and consumer product symbols.
Share this form so candidates can evaluate their background knowledge
Share this form so candidates can evaluate their background knowledge
In the CAEC science test, most questions address the scientific inquiry process.
Candidates can complete the quiz to review the scientific inquiry process and evaluate their background knowledge.
Complexity of the questions
Low complexity questions
Low complexity questions
Low complexity questions direct test-takers to find one piece of information in the text or recall one piece of information. Sometimes the question will direct test-takers to a specific place in the text to find the answer.
Look for questions that direct test-takers to look at the source
Select the two household hazard symbols that should be labelled on the container.
Some questions will ask test-takers to recall one fact using your background knowledge
From the eight descriptions below, select four that are characteristics of science.
Moderate complexity questions
Moderate complexity questions
Moderate complexity questions, which are used most often, require a two-step thinking process that involves the application of a procedure, concept or skill. The connection between the test question and source is not immediately apparent and can only be made using the concept, skill or procedure.
Look for questions that ask test-takers to understand and apply concepts:
Which of the following statements describes the relationship between the variables in the study?
Which of the following claims about Product W cannot be tested through scientific inquiry?
High complexity questions
High complexity questions
In a high complexity question, test-takers might still have to apply conceptual knowledge, a skill or a procedure. However, that cognitive work won’t lead directly to an answer. Instead, the answer depends on reasoning, logic and generalization, and the answer isn’t apparent. Test-takers will often be asked to evaluate information or draw a conclusion. In addition, they might have to consult more than one source.
Which of the following factors could have resulted in the most significant source of error for this investigation?
How candidates will show their answers
Candidates will see several different answer formats requiring them to do the following:
Click on buttons that contain the answer
Click, drag and drop to match or order
Click in circles or boxes next to the answer in a table
Click on graphics
Click, drag and drop on a graphic
Enter the answer directly
Open a dropdown menu and click.
Below are examples of the test answer formats that you might see.
Click on buttons that contain the answer
Click, drag and drop to match or order
Click in circles or boxes next to the answer in a table
Click on graphics
Click, drag and drop on a graphic
Enter the answer directly
Open a dropdown menu and click
Slides you can use and modify for a CAEC overview workshop
Slides you can use and modify for a CAEC overview workshop
We've transferred the information on this page to a set of slides that you can use during workshops or courses. The information is directed at test candidates.
Make this your own. Add your program logo and enhance the information to suit your needs and growing knowledge of the CAEC science test.
Curriculum plan and tips for a test preparation course
Curriculum plan and tips for a test preparation course
CAEC science test preparation.pdfUse the guide to plan a test preparation course to help learners identify characteristics of science and the scientific inquiry process:
Observations, questions and hypothesis
Methods and experimental design
Data collection and analysis
Conclusions and data communication
Critical thinking about scientific impacts.
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