Types of Science Investigations
Students will distinguish between descriptive, comparative, and experimental investigations.
Experimental Design
Given investigation scenarios and lab procedures, students will identify independent variables, dependent variables, constants, and control groups.
Interpreting Scatterplots
Given scatterplots that represent problem situations, the student will determine if the data has strong vs weak correlation as well as positive, negative, or no correlation.
Making Predictions and Critical Judgments (Table/Verbal)
Given verbal descriptions and tables that represent problem situations, the student will make predictions for real-world problems.
Collecting Data and Making Predictions
Given an experimental situation, the student will write linear functions that provide a reasonable fit to data to estimate the solutions and make predictions.
Writing Expressions to Model Patterns (Table/Pictorial → Symbolic)
Given a pictorial or tabular representation of a pattern and the value of several of their terms, the student will write a formula for the nth term of a sequences.
Quadratics: Connecting Roots, Zeros, and x-Intercepts
Given a quadratic equation, the student will make connections among the solutions (roots) of the quadratic equation, the zeros of their related functions, and the horizontal intercepts (x-intercepts) of the graph of the function.
Applying the Laws of Exponents: Verbal/Symbolic
Given verbal and symbolic descriptions of problems involving exponents, the student will simplify the expressions using the laws of exponents.
Using the Laws of Exponents to Solve Problems
Given problem situations involving exponents, the student will use the laws of exponents to solve the problems.
Formulating Systems of Equations (Verbal → Symbolic)
Given verbal descriptions of situations involving systems of linear equations the student will analyze the situations and formulate systems of equations in two unknowns to solve problems.
Solving Quadratic Equations Using Graphs
Given a quadratic equation, the student will use graphical methods to solve the equation.
Determining the Meaning of Intercepts
Given algebraic, tabular, and graphical representations of linear functions, the student will determine the intercepts of the function and interpret the meaning of intercepts within the context of the situation.
Predicting the Effects of Changing y-Intercepts in Problem Situations
Given verbal, symbolic, numerical, or graphical representations of problem situations, the student will interpret and predict the effects of changing the y-intercept in the context of the situations.
Solving Linear Inequalities
The student will represent linear inequalities using equations, tables, and graphs. The student will solve linear inequalities using graphs or properties of equality, and determine whether or not a given point is a solution to a linear inequality.
Analyzing Graphs of Quadratic Functions
Given the graph of a situation represented by a quadratic function, the student will analyze the graph and draw conclusions.
Data Organization
Given field and laboratory scenarios and laboratory data, students will construct data tables and graphs, using repeated trials and means to organize data.
Conclusions and Scientific Explanations
Given laboratory investigation data, students will determine the best conclusion based upon that data.
Measurement
Given investigation quantitative data, students will determine its degree of precision and/or accuracy and causes for uncertainties in measured data.
Taxonomy Standards
Given examples, students will recognize the importance of taxonomy to the scientific community.
Taxonomy: Major Groups
Given illustrations or descriptions, students will determine the classification of organisms into domains and kingdoms.