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Descriptive Statements:
- Interpret evidence for the Big Bang theory (e.g., red shift, cosmic microwave background radiation, hydrogen-helium ratio).
- Demonstrate knowledge of the types and characteristics of objects in the universe (e.g., nebulae, galaxies, black holes, quasars, pulsars).
- Demonstrate knowledge of the formation and characteristics of stars; the relationship between the life span of a star and the processes occurring in stars that produce elements (e.g., nuclear fusion, nucleosynthesis); and energy transfer within the Sun and between the Sun and Earth.
- Apply knowledge of data, methods, and technologies (e.g., optical and radio telescopes, space probes, spectroscopy) used to understand the size, structure, and motions of objects in the universe.
- Apply knowledge of the use of science and engineering practices in exploring and understanding content related to the structure of the universe, such as developing and using models, planning and safely conducting investigations, applying mathematical concepts, and communicating and evaluating data and conclusions.
Sample Item:
Which of the following classroom activities would best measure a student's understanding of a Hertzsprung-Russell diagram?
- measuring the effect of a star's solar wind on planets
- calculating a star's proximity to nearby planets
- estimating a star's motion through space
- determining a star's approximate age
Correct Response and Explanation (Show Correct ResponseHide Correct Response)
Correct Response: D.
Descriptive Statements:
- Demonstrate knowledge of the formation and early history of the solar system and the location and characteristics of objects within the solar system (e.g., planets, comets, asteroids, moons).
- Apply knowledge of Newton's and Kepler's laws and how orbits may change due to the gravitational effects from, or collisions with, other objects.
- Analyze how interactions between Earth and the Sun produce the cyclical pattern of seasons, Earth's tilt, and differences in the intensity of sunlight throughout the year.
- Analyze how a planet's distance from the Sun creates conditions conducive for life (i.e., habitable zone).
- Analyze how the interactions between Earth, the Moon, and the Sun produce lunar phases, eclipses, and tides.
- Apply knowledge of the use of science and engineering practices in exploring and understanding content related to the solar system and the interactions of Earth, the Moon, and the Sun, such as developing and using models, planning and safely conducting investigations, applying mathematical concepts, and communicating and evaluating data and conclusions.
Sample Item:
Use the table below to answer the question that follows.
| Exoplanet |
Distance to Star (AU) |
| W |
0.36 |
| X |
0.58 |
| Y |
1.07 |
| Z |
3.2 |
A scientist recently discovered a multiplanetary system that contains a star similar to our Sun. Assuming that all of the exoplanets are approximately Earth-sized, which of the following exoplanets in this system would have the highest probability of containing liquid water, a prerequisite for life?
- W
- X
- Y
- Z
Correct Response and Explanation (Show Correct ResponseHide Correct Response)
Correct Response: C.
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