Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System

2019, High School Biology

Question 32: Open-Response

Reporting Category: Biochemistry and Cell Biology
Standard: 2.7 - Describe how the process of meiosis results in the formation of haploid cells. Explain the importance of this process in sexual reproduction, and how gametes form diploid zygotes in the process of fertilization.
Standard: Sci.HS.LS.3.01 - Develop and use a model to show how DNA in the form of chromosomes is passed from parents to offspring through the processes of meiosis and fertilization in sexual reproduction. Clarification Statement: The model should demonstrate that an individual’s characteristics (phenotype) result, in part, from interactions among the various proteins expressed by one’s genes (genotype). State Assessment Boundary: Identification of specific phases of meiosis or the biochemical mechanisms involved are not expected in state assessment.

A barley plant has 14 chromosomes in its diploid cells. At a particular stage in its life cycle, the barley plant produces haploid cells (gametes).

Identify the expected number of chromosomes in a haploid cell of a barley plant.
Identify and generally describe the cellular process by which the haploid cells are produced.
Describe what a barley plant uses the haploid cells for and explain why the cells must be haploid for this purpose.

Scoring Guide for Idea Development

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

Score	Description
4	The response demonstrates a thorough understanding of how the process of meiosis results in the formation of haploid cells and the importance of this process in sexual reproduction. The response correctly identifies the expected number of chromosomes in a haploid barley cell and correctly identifies and clearly describes the process by which the haploid cells are produced. The response also clearly describes what a barley plant uses the haploid cells for, and clearly explains why the cells must be haploid for this purpose.
4
3	The response demonstrates a general understanding of how the process of meiosis results in the formation of haploid cells and the importance of this process in sexual reproduction.
2	The response demonstrates a limited understanding of how the process of meiosis results in the formation of haploid cells and the importance of this process in sexual reproduction.
1	The response demonstrates a minimal understanding of how the process of meiosis results in the formation of haploid cells and the importance of this process in sexual reproduction.
0	The response is incorrect or contains some correct work that is irrelevant to the skill or concept being measured.

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

High School Biology

Question 12: Ecology

Question 23: Anatomy and Physiology

Question 32: Biochemistry and Cell Biology

Question 44: Evolution and Biodiversity

Question 45: Genetics

Return to the MCAS 2019 Student Work Directory

Last Updated: May 5, 2020