Data Interpretation Samples – MYP Criterion C (Biology)
Below are three sample student answers describing the relationship between auxin
presence (independent variable) and plant responses (dependent variables: stem height
and curvature). Use the Quick Data Interpretation Checklist to judge each sample’s level of
achievement according to MYP Criterion C.
Sample A
The data show that the presence of auxin affects both stem height and curvature angle.
When auxin was absent (tips removed), the average stem height was 2 cm and the
curvature angle was 0°, showing no bending. When auxin movement was blocked (tips
covered with foil), the height increased slightly to 4 cm but the curvature stayed constant at
0°. When auxin was present and active (tips intact and exposed to light), the height
increased further to 6.5 cm, and the curvature increased to 35°. This shows a clear
relationship between the independent variable (auxin presence) and the dependent
variables (stem height and curvature). The results suggest that auxin promotes growth and
bending by moving to the shaded side of the stem, causing cells there to elongate more and
bend the shoot toward light.
Sample B
The data indicate that as the presence of auxin increases, both the average stem height and
curvature angle also increase. When auxin was absent (tips removed), the stem height was
2 cm and the curvature was 0°. When auxin was restricted (tips covered), the height
increased slightly to 4 cm, but the curvature remained constant at 0°. With auxin present
(tips intact and exposed to light), the stem height increased to 6.5 cm and the curvature
increased to 35°. These results show that auxin has an important role in plant growth and
bending. The data suggest that when auxin is present, it helps the stem grow taller and bend
toward light, although the exact mechanism is not fully explained in this data set.
Sample C
The data show a pattern where the presence of auxin causes changes in stem height and
curvature. When auxin was absent (tips removed), the stem height was 2 cm and the
curvature was 0°. When auxin was blocked (tips covered), the height increased to 4 cm, and
the curvature stayed constant at 0°. When auxin was present (tips intact and exposed to
light), the stem height increased to 6.5 cm, and the curvature increased to 35°. This means
the plant grew taller and bent more when auxin was available. The data show that auxin
affects growth and bending, but it does not explain clearly how this happens. The
relationship between the variables is visible, but only described in a simple way.
Quick Data Interpretation Checklist – MYP Criterion C
Focus
Trend
What to Look For
States if data increase,
✅/ ⚪
☐
Data use
Relationship
Scientific reasoning
Clarity
decrease, or stay constant
Quotes numbers from the
table accurately
Links auxin presence
(independent variable) to
stem height and curvature
(dependent variables)
Gives a short biological
explanation (e.g., auxin
causes bending)
Clear, logical, and easy to
follow
Scoring Guide
5 ✅= Level 7–8 → Accurate, insightful interpretation
3–4 ✅= Level 5–6 → Competent, mostly correct
1–2 ✅= Level 3–4 → Basic, mostly descriptive
0 ✅= Level 1–2 → Limited or unclear response
☐
☐
☐
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