Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System

2019, Grade 8 Science and Technology/Engineering

Question 16: Constructed-Response

Reporting Category: Life Science
Standard: Sci.8.LS.4.05 - Synthesize and communicate information about artificial selection, or the ways in which humans have changed the inheritance of desired traits in organisms. Clarification Statement: Emphasis is on the influence of humans on genetic outcomes in artificial selection (such as genetic modification, animal husbandry, and gene therapy).
Item Description: Describe one advantage and one disadvantage of selecting traits artificially in a species.

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Scoring Guide and Sample Student Work

Select a score point in the table below to view the sample student response.

Score	Description
2	The response demonstrates a thorough understanding of the ways in which humans have changed the inheritance of desired traits in organisms by artificial selection. The response clearly describes one advantage and one disadvantage of selecting traits artificially in horses.
1	The response demonstrates a partial understanding of the ways in which humans have changed the inheritance of desired traits in organisms by artificial selection.
0	The response is incorrect or contains some correct work that is irrelevant to the skill or concept being measured.

Grade 8 Science and Technology/Engineering

Question 4: Technology/Engineering

Question 5: Earth and Space Science

Question 16: Life Science

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Last Updated: May 5, 2020