School Improvement in Maryland

Using the State Curriculum: Science, Grade 5

Skills and Processes | Earth/Space | Life | Chemistry | Physics | Environmental

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Standard 1.0 Skills and Processes

Topic C. Communicating Scientific Information

Indicator 1. Recognize that clear communication is an essential part of doing science because it enables scientists to inform others about their work, expose their ideas to criticism by other scientists, and stay informed about scientific discoveries around the world.

Objective d. Construct and share reasonable explanations for questions asked.

Selected Response Item

Use the passage 'Glaciers and People' and the picture to answer the following question.

Some researchers think using icebergs as a source of fresh water is not a good idea.

Why are these researchers most likely against moving the icebergs?

  1. Using boats to haul glaciers is a waste of fuel.
  2. The natural environment of glacier areas is changed.
  3. The water in glaciers is so old it would not taste good.
  4. People should not live in places where there is not enough water.
/toolkit/vsc/assessment_items/msa_science_5_084.xml

Correct Answer:
B

Selected Response Item

Use the information below to answer the following.

Students investigated the reaction that occurs when mixing baking soda and vinegar. The procedure for the investigation is shown below.The students recorded their observations in the data tables below the diagram.

The students conducted the same investigation, but doubled the amount of baking soda and the amount of vinegar used.

What change in the results did the students most likely observe?

  1. The flask became warm.
  2. The balloon inflated more.
  3. The vinegar remained cloudy.
  4. The baking soda did not dissolve.
/toolkit/vsc/assessment_items/msa_science_5_078.xml

Correct Answer:
B

Brief Constructed Response (BCR) Item

Use the passage 'Making Fresh Water from Salt Water' to answer the following question.

A student repeated the distillation investigation but forgot to put the rock on the plastic wrap.

Describe the most likely result of this investigation. In your description, be sure to include

  • the purpose of the rock
  • how the results of this investigation compare with those of the original distillation

Write your answer in the space provided.

/toolkit/vsc/assessment_items/msa_science_5_100.xml

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