MS-LS1-2

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Develop and use a model to describe the function of a cell as a whole and ways parts of cells contribute to the function.

Clarification statement: Emphasis is on the cell functioning as a whole system and the primary role of identified parts of the cell, specifically the nucleus, chloroplasts, mitochondria, cell membrane, and cell wall.

Assessment boundary: Assessment of organelle structure/function relationships is limited to the cell wall and cell membrane. Assessment of the function of the other organelles is limited to their relationship to the whole cell. Assessment does not include the biochemical details related to the functions of cells or cell parts.

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

Develop and use a model to describe the function of a cell as a whole and the ways that parts of cells contribute to its function, including any simple biochemical details of its function.

Develop and use a model to describe the function of a cell as a whole and ways parts of cells contribute to the function.

Given a model, describe the function of a cell as a whole, or ways that parts of a cell contribute to the cell’s function.

Given a model, identify the function, from those provided, of various parts of a cell.

Resources

Examples and discussion of resources for the learning, teaching, and assessment of MS-LS1-2.

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

Assessment

What assessment of MS-LS1-2 might look like on a NY state exam.

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

NGSS Dimensions

Performance expectation MS-LS1-2 was developed using the following elements from the NRC document A Framework for K-12 Science Education:

Science and Engineering Practices

• Developing and Using Models
  • Develop a model to describe phenomena.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

• LS1.A: Structure and Function
  • Within cells, special structures are responsible for particular functions, and the cell membrane forms the boundary that controls what enters and leaves the cell.

Crosscutting Concepts

• Structure and Function
  • Complex and microscopic structures and systems can be visualized, modeled, and used to describe how their function depends on the relationships among its parts.

Connections to Other Standards

MS-LS1-2 connections to ELA, math, and other science standards as outlined by the NYS Education Department:

Page contributors: Caroline Leonard, Shirley Shameen

MS | MS. Structure, Function and Information Processing