HS-LS1-5
Use a model to illustrate how photosynthesis transforms light energy into stored chemical energy.
Clarification statement: Emphasis is on illustrating inputs and outputs of matter and the transfer and transformation of energy in photosynthesis by plants and other photosynthesizing organisms. Examples of models could include diagrams, chemical equations, and conceptual models.
Assessment boundary: Assessment does not include specific biochemical steps.
Note: This is a performance expectation for both HS Biology and HS Chemistry. For chemistry, the focus is on "balancing chemical equations" (as per the NYSED high school course maps).
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.
Resources
Examples and discussion of resources for the learning, teaching, and assessment of HS-LS1-5.

Assessment
What assessment of HS-LS1-5 might look like on a NY state exam.

NGSS Dimensions
Performance expectation HS-LS1-5 was developed using the following elements from the NRC document A Framework for K-12 Science Education:
- Developing and Using Models
- Use a model based on evidence to illustrate the relationships between systems or between components of a system.
- LS1.C: Organization for Matter and Energy Flow in Organisms
- The process of photosynthesis converts light energy to stored chemical energy by converting carbon dioxide plus water into sugars plus released oxygen.
- Energy and Matter
- Changes of energy and matter in a system can be described in terms of energy and matter flows into, out of, and within that system.