Core Objective 4: Physical & Natural Phenomena
Exceeds Expectations
Meets Expectations
4 (Exemplary)
3 (Good)
2 (Developing)
1 (Inadequate)
Understands the difference
between evidence/data and
explanation/theory and how
the two are used to build an
argument regarding physical
and natural phenomena, but
shows a limited ability to draw
conclusions from the argument
in other contexts.
Understands the difference
between evidence/data and
explanation/theory, but fails
to understand how the two
are used to build an
argument regarding physical
and natural phenomena or to
draw conclusions from the
argument in other contexts.
Does not understand the difference
between evidence/data and
explanation/theory, how the two are
used to build an argument regarding
physical and natural phenomena, or
how to draw conclusions from the
argument in other contexts.
Communicates (in written or
oral work) and uses
quantitative analysis to
analyze scientific principles
that explain physical and
natural phenomena but has
trouble employing appropriate
scientific terminology.
Formulates or addresses a
research question or testable
hypothesis, constructs or
applies a model for scientific
inquiry, but observational or
experimental methods used to
confirm or counter
question/hypothesis are
problematic or require greater
clarity.
Either communicates (in
written or oral work) or uses
quantitative analysis, but not
both, to analyze scientific
principles that explain
physical and natural
phenomena.
Does not demonstrate an
understanding of scientific principles
that explain physical and natural
phenomena in written or oral work
and by using quantitative analysis.
Formulates or addresses a
research question or testable
hypothesis, but constructs or
applies a barely able to
construct or apply a model
for scientific inquiry or use
observational or
experimental methods to
confirm or counter
question/hypothesis.
Cannot generate or engage with a
research question or testable
hypothesis, construct or apply a
model for scientific inquiry, or use
observational or experimental
methods to confirm or counter
question/hypothesis.
Clearly understands the
Understanding of
processes of investigation. difference between
evidence/data and
explanation/theory, how the
two are used to build an
argument regarding physical
and natural phenomena, and
able to draw conclusions
from the argument in other
contexts.
Clearly and accurately
Communication of
communicates (in written or
scientific principles.
oral work) with appropriate
scientific terminology and
uses quantitative analysis to
analyze scientific principles
that explain physical and
natural phenomena.
Formulates or addresses a
Application of scientific
research question or testable
method.
hypothesis, constructs or
applies a model for
scientific inquiry, and uses
observational or
experimental methods to
confirm or counter
question/hypothesis.
Does Not Meet Expectations