HS-LS3-3 | Genetics and Probability
Apply concepts of statistics and probability to explain the variation and distribution of expressed traits in a population.
Clarification statement: Emphasis is on the use of mathematics to describe the probability of traits as it relates to genetic and environmental factors in the expression of traits.
Assessment boundary: Assessment does not include Hardy-Weinberg calculations.
Performance Level Descriptions
PLDs communicate the knowledge and skills expected of students to demonstrate proficiency in each Learning Standard. NYS assessments classify student performance into one of five levels.
Resources
Examples and discussion of resources for the learning, teaching, and assessment of HS-LS3-3.

Assessment
What assessment of HS-LS3-3 might look like on a NY state exam.

NGSS Dimensions
Performance expectation HS-LS3-3 was developed using the following elements from the NRC document A Framework for K-12 Science Education:
- Analyzing and Interpreting Data
- Apply concepts of statistics and probability (including determining function fits to data, slope, intercept, and correlation coefficients for linear fits) to scientific and engineering questions and problems, using digital tools when feasible.
- LS3.B: Variation of Traits
- Environmental factors also affect expression of traits, and hence affect the probability of occurrences of traits in a population. Thus the variation and distribution of traits observed depends on both genetic and environmental factors.
- Scale, Proportion, and Quantity
- Algebraic thinking is used to examine scientific data and predict the effect of a change in one variable on another (e.g., linear growth vs. exponential growth).