MS-LS2-5

Evaluate competing design solutions for maintaining biodiversity and protecting ecosystem stability.

Clarification statement: Examples of ecosystem protections could include water purification, waste management, nutrient recycling, prevention of soil erosion, and eradication of invasive species. Examples of design solution constraints could include scientific, economic, and social considerations.

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

Given criteria, evaluate competing design solutions, using empirical evidence, scientific reasoning, and design constraints, that maintain biodiversity and protect ecosystem stability.

Evaluate competing design solutions for maintaining biodiversity and protecting ecosystem stability.

Given criteria, evaluate or describe a design solution, or possible solution, that maintains biodiversity or can protect the stability of the ecosystem.

Identify a given design solution, or possible solution, that addresses a problem to maintain biodiversity or that can protect the stability of an ecosystem.

Resources

Examples and discussion of resources for the learning, teaching, and assessment of MS-LS2-5.

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Assessment

What assessment of MS-LS2-5 might look like on a NY state exam.

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NGSS Dimensions

Performance expectation MS-LS2-5 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

Connections to Other Standards

MS-LS2-5 connections to ELA, math, and other science standards as outlined by the NYS Education Department:

Page contributors: Caroline Leonard, Shirley Shameen

P-8 | MS. Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems