HS-PS4-3

Evaluate the claims, evidence, and reasoning behind the idea that electromagnetic radiation can be described either by a wave model or a particle model (quantum theory), and that for some situations one model is more useful than the other.

Clarification statement: Emphasis is on how the experimental evidence supports the claim and how a theory is generally modified in light of new evidence. Examples of a phenomenon could include resonance, interference, diffraction, and photoelectric effect.

Assessment boundary: Assessment of the photoelectric effect is limited to qualitative descriptions.

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 5Level 4Level 3Level 2Level 1

Using multiple sources of evidence and scientific reasoning, construct and evaluate a claim that for some situations one model of electromagnetic radiation (wave or particle) is more useful than the other.

Evaluate the claims, evidence, and reasoning behind the idea that electromagnetic radiation can be described either by a wave model or a particle model (quantum theory), and that for some situations one model is more useful than the other.

Given information, support or refute a claim regarding the use of the wave model or the particle model for electromagnetic radiation to describe a phenomenon.

Given information about a phenomenon, identify the evidence that supports a claim about the model which best describes the phenomenon.

Identify a phenomenon from those given that is best described by the wave and/or particle model of electromagnetic radiation.

Resources

Examples and discussion of resources for the learning, teaching, and assessment of HS-PS4-3.

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Assessment

What assessment of HS-PS4-3 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 HS-PS4-3 was developed using the following elements from the NRC document A Framework for K-12 Science Education:

Science and Engineering Practices

Disciplinary Core Ideas

Crosscutting Concepts

Page contributors: Caroline Leonard, Conrad Richman

Physics | HS. Waves and Electromagnetic Radiation