Lesson 1: June 2023 Regents Analysis
Objective:
Learners will...
- Explore examples of formative and summative assessment techniques aligned with inquiry-based learning approaches.
- Use assessment data to inform instruction and support student learning outcomes.
Purpose of Performance Expectations & Levels
The performance expectations and levels for High School Earth and Space Sciences (HS ESS) in the New York State Science Learning Standards (NYSSLS) articulate the proficiency levels students are expected to achieve. These expectations outline the depth of understanding and skills students should demonstrate in Earth and space sciences by the end of high school. They encompass a range of cognitive, analytical, and practical abilities, guiding students towards a comprehensive grasp of key concepts such as Earth systems, geological processes, climate dynamics, and celestial phenomena. The levels delineate progressive stages of proficiency, from foundational comprehension to advanced application and synthesis, enabling educators to assess students' mastery and tailor instruction accordingly. By aligning with the NYSSLS performance expectations, educators can foster inquiry-based learning experiences that cultivate scientific literacy, critical thinking, and an appreciation for the interconnectedness of Earth and space systems.
The purpose of this lesson is to see that The Next Generation Science Standards focuses on the range of cognitive skills and that can be seen in level 4 & 5 of our performance expectations. We will look at a Regents exam not aligned to meet NYSSLS to predict what types of questions will not be asked in the new Regents Exam in 2025. Follow through the assignment below to discover the shift that we will encounter as we align exams to NYSSLS.
Assignment
Access the June 2023 Earth Science Regents: https://www.nysedregents.org/earthscience/623/esci62023-examw.pdf
Access the ESS Performance Level Descriptions in this folder: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LJRbPQt3_fa0empS0j7eszNIIhjJ5JL1/view?usp=sharing
MAKE A COPY of: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1u5Rb3O4nzke_FraEHcJfBum0curKDtLoFs6KhLxqRh0/edit?usp=sharing and title it "YOURLASTNAME_RegentsAnalysis"
Complete the table on the Google Doc, try your best to make the question to a performance expectation and level (1-5)
Place your Google Doc in this Google Folder
Lesson Summary
New York State Science Learning Standards (NYSSLS) is setting higher performance expectation levels for exams aligned with these standards in hopes to elevate the standards of science education and promote deeper learning outcomes among students. By setting higher performance expectation levels for NYSSLS aligned exams, we as educators raise the bar for science education, promote excellence and equity, and prepare students for success in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
Reflection Question
Please add to your reflective journal.
Reflecting on your students' achievements and challenges with these higher level 4 & 5 questions, what do we have to do differently in the classroom year round to prepare our students for an exam of all level 4 & 5 questions?