Elements below the second period, such as silicon, do not form what as readily as second-period elements, and when they do form, they are weaker than those formed by second-period elements?

The four Science Regents exams (Earth Science, Living Environment, Chemistry, and Physics) also include separately-scheduled lab practicals.
In New York, students have the opportunity to take Regents Exams in grades 9-12 and, when appropriate, in grade eight.