Performance Expectations

ESS1 helps students formulate an answer to questions such as:

• What is Earth’s place in the universe?
• What makes up our solar system?
• How can the motion of Earth explain seasons and eclipses?
• How do people figure out that the Earth and life on Earth have changed through time?

The ESS1 Disciplinary Core Idea is broken down into three sub-ideas: the universe and its stars, Earth and the solar system and the history of planet Earth . Students examine the Earth’s place in relation to the solar system, Milky Way Galaxy, and universe. There is a strong emphasis on a systems approach, using models of the solar system to explain astronomical and other observations of the cyclic patterns of eclipses, tides, and seasons. There is also a strong connection to engineering through the instruments and technologies that have allowed us to explore the objects in our solar system and obtain the data that support the theories that explain the formation and evolution of the universe . Students examine geoscience data in order to understand the processes and events in Earth’s history.
In the ESS1 performance expectations, students are expected to demonstrate proficiency in developing and using models, analyzing data,and constructing explanations and designing solutions; and to use these practices to demonstrate understanding of the core ideas.

Calculation Method for DCI

Disciplinary Core Ideas are larger groups of related Performance Expectations. So the Disciplinary Core Idea Grade is a calculation of all the related Performance Expectations. So click on the Performance Expectation name below each Disciplinary Core Idea to access the learning targets and proficiency scales for each Disciplinary Core Idea's related Performance Expectations.