California CAASPP Science Practice Test for High School

California CAASPP Science Practice Test for High School

This High School CAASPP / CAST Science Practice Test is designed to build mastery across ALL NGSS domains while preparing students for the rigor of the real exam. With a full-length test and performance task, this resource mirrors the structure, depth, and expectations of the official CAST assessment.

What’s Included

• Full-length High School CAST Practice Test (34 questions)
• Segment A: Physical, Life, and Earth & Space Science questions
• Segment B Performance Task: CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing scenario (real-world application)
• Multiple question types:

Selected Response
Two-Part Questions
Multi-Select
Constructed Response

• Detailed Answer Key with explanations and standards alignment
• Comprehensive Teacher’s Guide with pacing, scoring, and differentiation strategies
• Rubrics for constructed responses (easy grading!)
• Printable, classroom-ready format

How It Works in the Classroom

This high school science test prep resource is flexible and easy to use:

• Administer as a full-length mock CAST exam (90–120 minutes)
• Use individual sections for targeted review and reteaching
• Perfect for benchmark assessments or progress monitoring
• Assign performance task for critical thinking and writing practice
• Ideal for sub plans or independent practice

Standards & Learning Goals

Aligned to CA NGSS High School (HS-Band) standards across ALL domains:

Physical Science (HS-PS1–4): Chemistry, forces, energy, waves
Life Science (HS-LS1–4): DNA, ecosystems, evolution, genetics
Earth & Space Science (HS-ESS1–3): Climate, space, Earth systems
Engineering (HS-ETS1): Design, constraints, real-world problem solving

Students will:
✔ Analyze complex scientific data and scenarios
✔ Apply mathematical reasoning and modeling
✔ Construct evidence-based explanations
✔ Evaluate real-world scientific and ethical issues (CRISPR task!)

Why Teachers Love It

• Authentic CAST format — mirrors real testing experience
• Covers ALL high school NGSS standards in one resource
• Includes performance task for deeper learning
• Saves prep time with ready-to-use materials
• Supports data-driven instruction with clear scoring tools
• Builds student confidence before high-stakes testing

Take the stress out of test prep with this High School CAASPP Science Practice Test—a rigorous, standards-aligned resource that helps students feel prepared, confident, and ready to succeed on the CAST!