Level

 

Criteria

 

4

Excellent

 

3

Proficient

 

2

Adequate

 

1

Limited*

 

Insufficient/ Blank*

 

Describes animal characteristics

(3–10.1)

 

 

 

Includes a wide variety of observable characteristics that provide an accurate and comprehensive description of the animal

Includes many observable characteristics that provide a clear description of the animal

Includes a narrow range of observable characteristics that provide a general description of the animal

Includes a few observable characteristics that partially describe the animal

No score is awarded because there is insufficient evidence of student performance based on the requirements of the assessment task.

 

Demonstrates awareness of animal habitats

(3–10.6)

 

Provides an in-depth description of a suitable habitat that accounts for the unique characteristics of the animal

Provides a detailed description of a suitable habitat that accounts for the characteristics of the animal

Provides a superficial description of a habitat that takes into consideration some characteristics of the animal

 

Lists few features of a suitable habitat with little evidence relating the habitat to animal characteristics

 

 

Demonstrates knowledge of animal’s needs

(3–11.10)

 

Thoroughly explains how to help the animal meet its basic needs within its habitat

Describes how to help the animal meet its basic needs within its habitat

Makes a few suggestions on how to help the animal meet its basic needs within its habitat

Provides little or no information that connects to the animal’s basic needs