This study investigated Self-Efficacy for science and achievement in science at the middle school level. Combining science grade Self-Efficacy and laboratory skills Self-Efficacy described Self-Efficacy for science; achievement in science was described by a combination of science class grade and science lab grade. In an effort to minimize variables, this study was conducted within a race-homogeneous eighth grade student population.

The findings indicate Self-Efficacy for science has a moderate impact on science achievement for the population included in this study. The strongest relationship was measured between lab skills Self-Efficacy and science class grade; they mutually increase. As a result, the recommendations propose methods for school leaders to assess students' lab skills Self-Efficacy with the goal of positively impacting science class achievement. In addition, this study recommends that middle school science students be provided with opportunity to engage in inquiry-driven science investigations in a formative setting prior to summative assessment.