Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System

2018, Grade 4 Mathematics

Question 29: Constructed-Response

Reporting Category: Operations and Algebraic Thinking
Standard: Mathematics.4.OA.C.05 - Generate a number or shape pattern that follows a given rule. Identify apparent features of the pattern that were not explicit in the rule itself. For example, given the rule “Add 3” and the starting number 1, generate terms in the resulting sequence and observe that the terms appear to alternate between odd and even numbers. Explain informally why the numbers will continue to alternate in this way.
Item Description: Determine additional terms of a pattern given the rule, explain how the rule affects the pattern, and then analyze a similar pattern to find additional terms.

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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
4	The student response demonstrates an exemplary understanding of the Operations and Algebra concepts involved in generating a number or shape pattern that follows a given rule, and identifying apparent features of the pattern that were not explicit in the rule itself. The student correctly determines additional terms of a pattern given the rule, explains how the rule effects the pattern, and then analyzes a similar pattern to add terms.
4
3	The student response demonstrates a good understanding of the Operations and Algebra concepts involved in generating a number or shape pattern that follows a given rule, and identifying apparent features of the pattern that were not explicit in the rule itself. Although there is significant evidence that the student was able to recognize and apply the concepts involved, some aspect of the response is flawed. As a result, the response merits 3 points.
2	The student response demonstrates a fair understanding of the Operations and Algebra concepts involved in generating a number or shape pattern that follows a given rule, and identifying apparent features of the pattern that were not explicit in the rule itself. While some aspects of the task are completed correctly, others are not. The mixed evidence provided by the student merits 2 points.
1	The student response demonstrates a minimal understanding of the Operations and Algebra concepts involved in generating a number or shape pattern that follows a given rule, and identifying apparent features of the pattern that were not explicit in the rule itself.
0	The student response contains insufficient evidence of the Operations and Algebra concepts involved in generating a number or shape pattern that follows a given rule, and identifying apparent features of the pattern that were not explicit in the rule itself to merit any points.

Note: There are 2 sample student responses for Score Point 4.

Grade 4 Mathematics

Question 7: Number and Operations in Base Ten

Question 29: Operations and Algebraic Thinking

Return to the MCAS 2018 Student Work Directory

Last Updated: March 11, 2024