Criterion

0

1-2

3-4

5-6

SCORE

One World

The student has not reached a standard described by any of the descriptors.

The student is able to demonstrate some knowledge of the application of science and some awareness of its impact.

The student is able to make some reasonable comments on the benefits and drawbacks of the applications of science and shows awareness of its different cultural and societal perspectives. He/she demonstrates some understanding of the moral and the ethical considerations that can be associated with scientific developments.

The student demonstrates a clear understanding of the contributions and limitations of science across a range of societal issues. He/she can make reasoned suggestions about how to integrate science into society, shows good insight into the cultural influences on the practice of science, and has a good understanding of the moral and ethical considerations that can be associated with scientific developments.

Communication

The student has not reached a standard described by any of the descriptors.

The student is able to recognize basic scientific vocabulary, shows some ability to present information in an appropriate form and communicates some of his/her ideas using some scientific language effectively.

The student is able to recognize and use a reasonable range of scientific vocabulary to present most

information in an appropriate form, and to communicate the majority of his/her ideas using scientific language effectively.

The student is able to use and interpret a wide range of scientific vocabulary, to present detailed and complex information appropriately and accurately, and to communicate even the more difficult ideas using scientific language effectively.

Scientific Knowledge and Concepts

The student has not reached a standard described by any of the descriptors.

The student is able to recall some information and when dealing with very simple problems shows some ability to select information, express it in his/her own words and use it.

The student shows a good overall knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, and can apply it to solve straightforward problems. Some degree of insight into the nature of science is evident.

The student shows a good overall knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, can apply this to a range of problem-solving situations, is able to synthesise and evaluate new ideas, and has a very good appreciation of the nature of science.

Scientific Enquiry

The student has not reached a standard described by any of the descriptors.

The student is able, in straightforward situations to identify some of the variables involved, to plan a fair test and select suitable procedures and apparatus and to make some relevant comments as part of the evaluation of the enquiry

The student is able to state a problem on a particular issue, identify the main variables involved, suggest the procedures and apparatus required, suggest a reasonable plan for the procedures and carry out a mostly relevant evaluation of the procedure.

The student is able to formulate a clear and testable hypothesis, plan how to control a number of variables suggest the procedures and apparatus required, comment on the reliability of the results, account for anomalous results, suggest some sensible improvements to the procedures and make some suggestions for further work to extend the enquiry.

Processing Data

The student has not reached a standard described by any of the descriptors.

The student is able to present data in simple tables, transform data using simple numerical/and or diagrammatic methods and draw an obvious conclusion.

The student is able to construct and use appropriate tables, manipulate data numerically, transform data between different diagrammatic forms and detect trends and patterns in the data, draw conclusions consistent with evidence and make some attempt to explain conclusions using his/her scientific knowledge and understanding.

The student is able to present his/her results, logically and clearly, carry out relevant calculations and draw appropriate graphs, interpret trends in data that he/she has obtained and manipulated, draw conclusions consistent with evidence, make inferences and/or predictions that are consistent with the data and clearly explain the conclusion using relevant scientific knowledge and understanding.

Performance in Experiments

The student has not reached a standard described by any of the descriptors

The student is able to use simple equipment following detailed instructions, carry out simple procedures, and make straightforward observations and measurements. He/she can work safely and cooperate with other students, but may need reminders.

The student is able to use most equipment competently following instructions, carry out procedures involving several steps, and make reasonably systemic and accurate observations and measurements. He/she generally cooperates well with other students and follows safety rules.

The student is able to use equipment with precision and skill, following outline instructions, carry out multitask procedures and make adjustments as necessary, obtain reliable evidence, note unexpected observations, make accurate measurements and repeat observations and measurements as necessary. The student maintains a high level of cooperation with other students and pays attention to safety.