MS-LS3-1 | Genetic Mutations
Develop and use a model to explain why structural changes to genes (mutations) located on chromosomes may affect proteins and may result in harmful, beneficial, or neutral effects to the structure and function of the organism.
Clarification statement: Mutations in body cells are not inherited. Emphasis is on conceptual understanding that changes in genetic material may result in making different proteins.
Assessment boundary: Assessment does not include specific changes at the molecular level, mechanisms for protein synthesis, or specific types of mutations.
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 MS-LS3-1.
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Assessment
What assessment of MS-LS3-1 might look like on a NY state exam.
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NGSS Dimensions
Performance expectation MS-LS3-1 was developed using the following elements from the NRC document A Framework for K-12 Science Education:
- Developing and Using Models
- Develop and use a model to describe phenomena.
- LS3.A: Inheritance of Traits
- Genes are located in the chromosomes of cells, with each chromosome pair containing two variants of each of many distinct genes. Each distinct gene chiefly controls the production of specific proteins, which in turn affects the traits of the individual. Changes (mutations) to genes can result in changes to proteins, which can affect the structures and functions of the organisms and thereby change traits.
- LS3.B: Variation of Traits
- In addition to variations that arise from sexual reproduction, genetic information can be altered due to mutations. Some changes are beneficial, others harmful, and some neutral to the organism.
- (NYSED) Mutations may result in changes to the structure and function of proteins.
- 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-LS3-1 connections to ELA, math, and other science standards as outlined by the NYS Education Department: