Ohio Grade 5 Achievement Test for Science – May 2008
Annotated Item 23
Standard and Benchmark Assessed:
Standard:
Scientific Inquiry
Benchmark: A. Use appropriate instruments safely to observe, measure and collect data when
conducting a scientific investigation.
Multiple Choice Question:
23.
Which property of air does a barometer measure?
A.
B.
C.
D.
speed
pressure
humidity
temperature
Commentary:
This multiple choice question asks students to identify which property of air a barometer
measures. A barometer measures air pressure making answer choice B correct. Answer
choice A is incorrect because air speed is measured by an anemometer. Answer choice C is
incorrect because humidity is measured by a hygrometer. Answer choice D is incorrect because
air temperature is measured by a thermometer.
The question is classified Recalling/Identifying Accurate Science because the task requires
students to correctly recall the functions of weather instruments and that a barometer measures
air pressure.
Performance Data:
The percent of public school students selecting answer choice B for questions 23 on the May
2008 Ohio Grade 5 Achievement Test for Science was 58%.
Keywords: barometer, air pressure
Source: Ohio Department of Education
July 08