Nature of Science

While the descriptions of each of the subtests is pretty clear about what topics will be asked and in what proportions they will appear, the descriptions of the subject matter for each science subtest also includes a section on skills and abilities required in all domains of science. This section is split into three domains:

1. Investigation & Experimentation
2. Nature of Science
3. Science and Society

These are largely consistant of skills that should have been acquired while studying science in college and high school, and most of these skills would be very difficult to "study" for. Other parts of these sections are much easier to study for since it falls into the category of knowledge (especially historical) that may or may not have been acquired given that such knowledge has little bearing on one's ability to "perform" science. More specifically, these sections ask for a few things that you can study up for:

• Identify examples of women and men of various social and ethnic backgrounds with diverse interests, talents, qualities and motivations who are, or who have been, engaged in activities of science and related fields
• Read and decode MSDS/OSHA (Material Safety Data Sheet/Occupational Safety and
  Health Administration) labels on laboratory supplies and equipment
• Be familiar with standard safety procedures such as those outlined in the Science Safety
  Handbook for California Schools (1999)

This isn't to say that it's a hopeless cause to prepare yourself for the rest of what is asked of you in this section. The reason there are no questions specifically set aside for these topics on the CSETs are because they are largely about process, critical thinking, and problem solving. They are, consequently, weaved in throughout each question you encounter. While studying the content you need for the exam, it is very likely that you will prepare yourself adequately for these skills as a byproduct of the study process.

Resources: (I am adding to this list, so please don't think I'll only include CSUN links.)

• CSUN: Experimentation & Investigation (CSET prep)
• CSUN: Nature of Science (CSET Prep)
• CSUN: Science and Society (CSET Prep)
• Sourcebook for Teaching Science (CSUN)
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