1= Minimal Effort
2=Below Standard
3=At Standard
4=Above Standard
Standard refers to grade level expectations.

A.Scientific inquiry involves asking and answering questions and comparing the answer with what scientists already know about the world.
    Generate a question that can be answered through scientific investigation. This may involve refining or refocusing a broad and ill-defined question.
B. Different kinds of questions suggest different kinds of scientific investigations.

    Plan and conduct a scientific investigation (e.g., field study, systematic observation, controlled experiment, model, or simulation) that is appropriate for the question being asked.

    · Propose a hypothesis, give a reason for the hypothesis, and explain how the planned investigation will test the hypothesis.
    Work collaboratively with other students to carry out the investigations.

C. Collecting, analyzing, and displaying data are essential aspects of all investigations

    Communicate results using pictures, tables, charts, diagrams, graphic displays, and text that are clear, accurate, and informative. *a
    ·Recognize and interpret patterns – as well as variations from previously learned or observed patterns – in data, diagrams, symbols, and words.*a
    Use statistical procedures (e.g., median, mean, or mode) to analyze data and make inferences about relationships.*b

D. For an experiment to be valid, all (controlled) variables must be kept the same whenever possible, except for the manipulated (independent) variable being tested and the responding (dependent) variable being measured and recorded. If a variable cannot be controlled, it must be reported and accounted for.

    Plan and conduct a controlled experiment to test a hypothesis about a relationship between two variables. *c
    Determine which variables should be kept the same (controlled), which (independent) variable should be systematically manipulated, and which responding (dependent) variable is to be measured and recorded.
    Report any variables not controlled and explain how they might affect results.

F. It is important to distinguish between the results of a particular investigation and general conclusions drawn from these results.

    Generate a scientific conclusion from an investigation using inferential logic, and clearly distinguish between results (e.g., evidence) and conclusions (e.g., explanation).
    Describe the differences between an objective summary of the findings and an inference made from the findings.*c

G. Scientific reports should enable another investigator to repeat the study to check the results.

    Prepare a written report of an investigation by clearly describing the question being investigated, what was done, and an objective summary of results. The report should provide evidence to accept or reject the hypothesis, explain the relationship between two or more variables, and identify limitations of the investigation.