MS-ESS2-3

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Analyze and interpret data on the distribution of fossils and rocks, continental shapes, and seafloor structures to provide evidence of the past plate motions.

Clarification statement: Examples of data could include similarities of rock and fossil types on different continents, the shapes of the continents (including continental shelves), and the locations of ocean structures (such as ridges, fracture zones, and trenches).

Assessment boundary: Paleomagnetic anomalies in oceanic and continental crust are not assessed.

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.

Level 4Level 3Level 2Level 1

Analyze and interpret data on the distribution of fossils and rocks, continental shapes, and seafloor structures to provide evidence of past plate motion. Describe the different patterns of past plate motions and explain why these past plate motions have occurred.

Analyze and interpret data on the distribution of fossils and rocks, continental shapes, and seafloor structures to provide evidence of the past plate motions.

Using data, identify the evidence that supports past plate motions using either the distribution of fossils, rocks, continental shapes, or seafloor structures.

Using data as evidence, identify the explanation, from those provided, that supports past plate motion based on either the distribution of fossils, rocks, continental shapes, or seafloor structures.

Resources

Examples and discussion of resources for the learning, teaching, and assessment of MS-ESS2-3.

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Assessment

What assessment of MS-ESS2-3 might look like on a NY state exam.

• Fossil Parks in New York State Q2
• Death Valley Q35

NGSS Dimensions

Performance expectation MS-ESS2-3 was developed using the following elements from the NRC document A Framework for K-12 Science Education:

Science and Engineering Practices

• Analyzing and Interpreting Data
  • Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for phenomena.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

• ESS2.B: Plate Tectonics and Large-Scale System Interactions
  • Maps of ancient land and water patterns, based on investigations of rocks and fossils, make clear how Earth’s plates have moved great distances, collided, and spread apart.

Crosscutting Concepts

• Patterns
  • Patterns in rates of change and other numerical relationships can provide information about natural systems.

Connections to Other Standards

MS-ESS2-3 connections to ELA, math, and other science standards as outlined by the NYS Education Department:

Page contributors: Caroline Leonard, Conrad Richman, Shirley Shameen

MS | MS. History of Earth