HS-PS2-1
Analyze data to support the claim that Newton’s Second Law of Motion describes the mathematical relationship among the net force on a macroscopic object, its mass, and its acceleration.
Clarification statement: Examples of data could include tables, graphs, or diagrams (vector diagrams) for objects subject to a net unbalanced force (a falling object, an object sliding down a ramp, an object being acted on by friction, a moving object being pulled by a constant force, projectile motion, or an object moving in a circular motion), for objects in equilibrium (Newton’s First Law), or for forces describing the interaction between two objects (Newton’s Third Law).
Assessment boundary: Assessment is limited to macroscopic objects moving at non-relativistic speeds whose measured quantities can be classified as either vector or scalar.
Note: this is a NYSED-specific performance expectation that is different from the Next Generation Science Standards.
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-PS2-1.

Assessment
What assessment of HS-PS2-1 might look like on a NY state exam.
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NGSS Dimensions
Performance expectation HS-PS2-1 was developed using the following elements from the NRC document A Framework for K-12 Science Education:
- Analyzing and interpreting data: Analyze data using tools, technologies, and/or models (e.g., computational, mathematical) in order to make valid and reliable scientific claims or determine an optimal design solution.
- Science models, laws, mechanisms, and theories explain natural phenomena: theories and laws provide explanations in science.
- Forces and motion: Newton’s second law accurately predicts changes in the motion of macroscopic objects.
- Cause and effect: Empirical evidence is required to differentiate between cause and correlation and make claims about specific causes and effects.