Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System

2019, Grade 7 Mathematics

Question 12: Constructed-Response

Reporting Category: Expressions and Equations
Standard: Mathematics.7.EE.B.04 - Use variables to represent quantities in a real-world or mathematical problem, and construct simple equations and inequalities to solve problems by reasoning about the quantities.
Item Description: Given a real-world context, create an equation and an inequality with variables, and use them to solve problems.

View item in MCAS Digital Item Library

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 Expressions and Equations concepts involved in using variables to represent quantities in a real-world problem and constructing simple equations and inequalities to solve problems by reasoning about the quantities.
4
3	The student response demonstrates a good understanding of the Expressions and Equations concepts involved in using variables to represent quantities in a real-world problem and constructing simple equations and inequalities to solve problems by reasoning about the quantities. 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 Expressions and Equations concepts involved in using variables to represent quantities in a real-world problem and constructing simple equations and inequalities to solve problems by reasoning about the quantities. 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 Expressions and Equations concepts involved in using variables to represent quantities in a real-world problem and constructing simple equations and inequalities to solve problems by reasoning about the quantities.
0	The student response contains insufficient evidence of an understanding of the Expressions and Equations concepts involved in using variables to represent quantities in a real-world problem and constructing simple equations and inequalities to solve problems by reasoning about the quantities to merit any points.

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

Grade 7 Mathematics

Question 4: Ratios and Proportional Relationships

Question 12: Expressions and Equations

Return to the MCAS 2019 Student Work Directory

Last Updated: May 5, 2020