MS-LS1-3 | Body Systems and Homeostasis
Construct an explanation supported by evidence for how the body is composed of interacting systems consisting of cells, tissues, and organs working together to maintain homeostasis.
Clarification statement: Emphasis should be on the function and interactions of the major body systems (e.g. circulatory, respiratory, nervous, musculoskeletal).
Assessment boundary: Assessment is focused on the interactions between systems not on the functions of individual systems.
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-LS1-3.

Assessment
What assessment of MS-LS1-3 might look like on a NY state exam.
NGSS Dimensions
Performance expectation MS-LS1-3 was developed using the following elements from the NRC document A Framework for K-12 Science Education:
- Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions
- Construct a scientific explanation based on valid and reliable evidence obtained from sources (including the students’ own experiments) and the assumption that theories and laws that describe the natural world operate today as they did in the past and will continue to do so in the future.
- LS1.A: Structure and Function
- In multicellular organisms, the body is a system of multiple interacting subsystems. These subsystems are groups of cells that work together to form tissues and organs that are specialized for particular body functions.
- Systems and System Models
- Systems may interact with other systems; they may have sub-systems and be a part of larger complex systems.
Connections to Other Standards
MS-LS1-3 connections to ELA, math, and other science standards as outlined by the NYS Education Department: