MS-PS4-1 | Wave Properties

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Develop a model and use mathematical representations to describe waves that includes frequency, wavelength, and how the amplitude of a wave is related to the energy in a wave.

Clarification statement: Emphasis is on describing waves with both qualitative and quantitative thinking.

Assessment boundary: Assessment is limited to comparing standard repeating waves of only one type (transverse or longitudinal).

Assessment

What assessment of MS-PS4-1 might look like on a NY state exam.

Exam	Cluster	Question
Spring 2026	Acoustic Levitation	Question 7
Spring 2024	Energy Transfer by Waves	Question 1
	Energy Transfer by Waves	Question 5

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 four levels.

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Level 1: Given a model, identify the frequency, wavelength, or amplitude of a wave or identify a relationship between them.

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Level 2: Given a model, qualitatively identify the frequency, wavelength, or amplitude of a wave or explain the relationship between the amplitude and energy in a wave.

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Level 3: Develop a model and use mathematical representations to describe waves that includes frequency, wavelength, and how the amplitude of a wave is related to the energy in a wave.

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Level 4: Develop a model and use mathematical representations to describe waves that includes frequency, wavelength, and how the amplitude of a wave is related to the energy in a wave and predict what would happen if one of these variables was changed.

Resources

Examples and discussion of resources for the learning, teaching, and assessment of MS-PS4-1.

This section could be expanded upon. You can help out by adding to this section.

NGSS Dimensions

Performance expectation MS-PS4-1 was developed using the following elements from the NRC document A Framework for K-12 Science Education:

Science and Engineering Practices

• Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking
  • Use mathematical representations to describe and/or support scientific conclusions and design solutions.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

• PS4.A: Wave Properties
  • A simple wave has a repeating pattern with a specific wavelength, frequency, and amplitude.

Crosscutting Concepts

• Patterns
  • Graphs and charts can be used to identify patterns in data.

Page contributors: Caroline Leonard, Conrad Richman, Shirley Shameen

MS | MS. Waves and Electromagnetic Radiation