MS-LS1-4

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MS-LS1-5 →

Use argument based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how characteristic animal behaviors and specialized plant structures affect the probability of successful reproduction of animals and plants, respectively.

Clarification statement: Examples of behaviors that affect the probability of animal reproduction could include nest building to protect young from cold, herding of animals to protect young from predators, and vocalization of animals and colorful plumage to attract mates for breeding. Examples of animal behaviors that affect the probability of plant reproduction could include transferring pollen or seeds, and creating conditions for seed germination and growth. Examples of plant structures could include bright flowers attracting butterflies that transfer pollen, flower nectar and odors that attract insects that transfer pollen, and hard shells on nuts that squirrels bury.

Grade 8 Science Test Questions

Released New York State Grade 8 science test questions that assess MS-LS1-4 are listed here by test and question cluster. Each link opens the question with its answer key.

Exam	Cluster	Question
Spring 2026 Grade 8 Test	Quaking Aspen	Question 21
Spring 2024 Grade 8 Test	Evolutionary Relationships	Question 26

Performance Level Descriptions

Every Grade 8 Science Test question on MS-LS1-4 is written to match one of the performance level descriptions (PLDs) below.

Level 1: Using the evidence provided, identify an animal behavior or a specialized plant structure that helps the organism increase the probability of successful reproduction.

Level 2: Support a given argument by providing evidence of how animal behaviors and specialized plant structures increase the probability of successful reproduction of animals and plants, respectively.

Level 3: Use argument based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how characteristic animal behaviors and specialized plant structures affect the probability of successful reproduction of the animals and plants, respectively.

Level 4: Use argument based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how a specific animal behavior and a specialized plant structure directly interact to affect the probability of successful reproduction of the animal and plant.

Resources

Examples and discussion of resources for the learning, teaching, and assessment of MS-LS1-4.

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NGSS Dimensions

Performance expectation MS-LS1-4 was developed using the following elements from the NRC document A Framework for K-12 Science Education:

Science and Engineering Practices

• Engaging in Argument from Evidence
  • Use an oral and written argument supported by empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support or refute an explanation or a model for a phenomenon or a solution to a problem.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

• LS1.B: Growth and Development of Organisms
  • Organisms reproduce, either sexually or asexually, and transfer their genetic information to their offspring. (secondary to MS-LS3-2)
  Animals engage in characteristic behaviors that increase the odds of reproduction.
  • Plants reproduce in a variety of ways, sometimes depending on animal behavior and specialized features for reproduction.

Crosscutting Concepts

• Cause and Effect
  • Phenomena may have more than one cause, and some cause and effect relationships in systems can only be described using probability.

Page contributors: Caroline Leonard, Conrad Richman, Shirley Shameen

MS | MS. Growth, Development, and Reproduction of Organisms