MS-PS2-5 | Exploring Electromagnetism
Conduct an investigation and evaluate the experimental design to provide evidence that fields exist between objects exerting forces on each other even though the objects are not in contact.
Clarification statement: Examples of this phenomenon could include the interactions of magnets, electrically-charged strips of tape, and electrically-charged pith balls. Examples of investigations could include first-hand experiences or simulations. Emphasis should be on using arrows to represent the directions of forces.
Assessment boundary: Assessment is limited to electric and magnetic fields, and is limited to qualitative evidence for the existence of fields.
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-PS2-5.

Assessment
What assessment of MS-PS2-5 might look like on a NY state exam.
NGSS Dimensions
Performance expectation MS-PS2-5 was developed using the following elements from the NRC document A Framework for K-12 Science Education:
- Planning and Carrying Out Investigations
- Conduct an investigation and evaluate the experimental design to provide evidence that fields exist between objects exerting forces on each other even though the objects are not in contact.
- PS2.B: Types of Interactions
- Forces that act at a distance (electric, magnetic, and gravitational) can be explained by fields that extend through space and can be mapped by their effect on a test object (a charged object, or ball, respectively)
- Cause and Effect
- Cause and effect relationships may be used to predict phenomena in natural or designed systems.
Connections to Other Standards
MS-PS2-5 connections to ELA, math, and other science standards as outlined by the NYS Education Department: