PS1 help students to formulate an answer to the question , “ How do atomic and molecular interactions explain the properties of matter that we see and feel? ” by building understanding of what occurs at the atomic and molecular scale.
In middle school , the PS1 Disciplinary Core Idea is broken down into two sub-ideas: the structure and properties of matter and chemical reactions. By the end of middle school , students will be able to apply understanding that pure substances have characteristic physical and chemical properties and are made from a single type of atom or molecule. They will be able to provide molecular level accounts to explain states of matters and changes between states , that chemical reactions involve regrouping of atoms to form new substances , and that atoms rearrange during chemical reactions. Students are also able to apply an understanding of the design and the process of optimization in engineering to chemical reaction systems.
In the PS1 performance expectations, students are expected to demonstrate proficiency in developing and using models, analyzing and interpreting data, designing solutions, and obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information. Students use these scientific and engineering practices to demonstrate understanding of the disciplinary 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.
