2019 PSSA ISS Science Grade 8

The Pennsylvania System
of School Assessment
Science
Item and Scoring Sampler
2019–2020
Grade 8
Pennsylvania Department of Education Bureau of Curriculum, Assessment and Instruction—September 2019
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INFORMATION ABOUT SCIENCE

Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
What Is Included. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Purposes and Uses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Item Format and Scoring Guidelines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Testing Time and Mode of Testing Delivery for the PSSA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Item and Scoring Sampler Format. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Science Test Directions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
General Description of Scoring Guidelines for Science Open-Ended Items. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Multiple-Choice Questions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Open-Ended Item. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Item-Specific Scoring Guideline. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Open-Ended Item. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Item-Specific Scoring Guideline. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Sample Item Summary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 ii

INTRODUCTION
The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) provides districts and schools with tools to assist in delivering
focused instructional programs aligned with the Pennsylvania Academic Standards (PAS). In addition to the PAS, these
tools include Assessment Anchor documents, assessment handbooks, and content-based item and scoring samplers.
Each Item and Scoring Sampler is a useful tool for Pennsylvania educators in preparing local instructional programs
and can also be useful in preparing students for the statewide assessment.
This Item and Scoring Sampler is available in Braille format. For more information regarding Braille, call (717) 901-2238.
WHAT IS INCLUDED
This sampler contains test questions, or test “items,” that have been written to align to the Assessment Anchors that are
based on the PAS. The sample test questions model the types of items that will appear on an operational PSSA. Each
sample test question has been through a rigorous review process to ensure alignment with the Assessment Anchors
prior to being piloted in an embedded field test within a PSSA assessment and then used operationally on a PSSA
assessment. Answer keys, scoring guidelines, and any related stimulus material are also included. Additionally, sample
student responses are provided with each open-ended item to demonstrate the range of responses that students
provided in response to these items.
PURPOSES AND USES

The items in this sampler may be used as models for creating assessment items at the classroom level, and they may
also be copied and used as part of a local instructional program.1 Classroom teachers may find it beneficial to have
students respond to the open-ended items in this sampler. Educators can then use the item’s scoring guideline and
sample responses as a basic guide to score the responses, either independently or together with colleagues within
a school or district. The sampler also includes the General Description of Scoring Guidelines for Science Open-Ended
Items used to develop the item-specific guidelines. The general description of scoring guidelines can be used if any
additional item-specific scoring guidelines are created for use within local instructional programs.1
ITEM FORMAT AND SCORING GUIDELINES

The multiple-choice (MC) questions have four answer choices. Each correct response to an MC question is worth
one point.
Each open-ended (OE) item in science is scored using an item-specific scoring guideline based on a 0–2-point scale.
TESTING TIME AND MODE OF TESTING DELIVERY FOR THE PSSA

The PSSA is delivered in traditional paper-and-pencil format as well as in an online format. The estimated time to
respond to a test question is the same for both methods of test delivery. During an official testing administration,
students are given additional time as necessary to complete the test questions. The following table shows the
estimated response time per item for each item type.
Science Item Type MC OE

Estimated Response Time
1 5
(minutes)
1 The permission to copy and/or use these materials does not extend to commercial purposes.
PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 1

ITEM AND SCORING SAMPLER FORMAT

This sampler includes the test directions and scoring guidelines that appear in the PSSA science assessments. Each
sample multiple-choice question is followed by a table that includes the alignment, the answer key, the depth of
knowledge (DOK) level, the percentage2 of students who chose each answer option, and a brief answer-option
analysis or rationale. Each open-ended item is followed by a table that includes the item alignment, DOK, and mean
student score. Additionally, each of the included item‐specific scoring guidelines is combined with sample student
responses representing each score point to form a practical, item‐specific scoring guide. The General Description of
Scoring Guidelines for Science Open-Ended Items used to develop the item‐specific scoring guidelines should be used if
any additional item‐specific scoring guidelines are created for use within local instructional programs.
Example Multiple-Choice Question Information Table
Item Information
Alignment Assigned AAEC
Answer Key Correct Answer
Depth of Knowledge Assigned DOK
p-value A Percentage of students who selected option A
p-value B Percentage of students who selected option B
p-value C Percentage of students who selected option C
p-value D Percentage of students who selected option D
Option Annotations Brief answer-option analysis or rationale
Example Open-Ended Item Information Table
Alignment Assigned AAEC Depth of Knowledge Assigned DOK Mean Score
2 All p-value percentages listed in the item information tables have been rounded.

PSSA SCIENCE GRADE 8
SCIENCE TEST DIRECTIONS

On the following pages are the Science questions. There are two types of questions.
Multiple-Choice Questions:
Some questions will ask you to select an answer from among four choices. These questions
will be found in your test booklet.
For the multiple-choice questions:
•• Read each question, and choose the best answer.

•• Record your choice in the answer booklet.
•• Only one of the answers provided is the correct response.
Open-Ended Questions:
Other questions will require you to write your response. These questions will be found
in your answer booklet.
For the open-ended questions:
•• Be sure to read the directions carefully.

•• If the question asks you to do two tasks, be sure to complete both tasks.
•• If the question asks you to compare, be sure to compare. Also, if the question
asks you to explain, describe, or identify, be sure to explain, describe, or
identify.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF SCORING GUIDELINES FOR SCIENCE OPEN-ENDED ITEMS

2 Points
•• The response demonstrates a thorough understanding of the scientific content, concepts, and procedures
required by the task(s).
•• The response provides a clear, complete, and correct response as required by the task(s). The response may
contain a minor blemish or omission in work or explanation that does not detract from demonstrating a
thorough understanding.
1 Point
•• The response demonstrates a partial understanding of the scientific content, concepts, and procedures required
by the task(s).
•• The response is somewhat correct with partial understanding of the required scientific content, concepts,
and/or procedures demonstrated and/or explained. The response may contain some work that is incomplete
or unclear.
0 Points
•• The response provides insufficient evidence to demonstrate any understanding of the scientific content,
concepts, and procedures as required by the task(s) for that grade level.
•• The response may show only information copied or rephrased from the question or insufficient correct
information to receive a score of 1.
Special Categories within zero reported separately:
Blank...........................................Blank, entirely erased, entirely crossed out, or consists entirely of whitespace
Refusal......................................Refusal to respond to the task
Off Task.....................................Makes no reference to the item but is not an intentional refusal
Foreign Language..............Written entirely in a language other than English
Illegible......................................Illegible or incoherent

THIS PAGE IS
INTENTIONALLY BLANK.

MULTIPLE-CHOICE QUESTIONS
1. A student learns that pure water freezes at 0°C. The student wants to find out how much salt
needs to be added to the water to lower the freezing temperature by two degrees. Which
statement explains why this question can be answered through scientific inquiry?
A. The question likely has more than one answer.

B. The question has already been answered by scientists.
C. The question can be investigated through a group of experiments.
D. The question can be answered through mathematical calculations.
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Item Information
Alignment S8.A.1.1.2
Answer Key C
Depth of Knowledge 2
p-value A 9%
p-value B 12%
p-value C 66% (correct answer)
p-value D 13%
Option Annotations A. Scientific inquiry is not required to determine the likelihood that the question
has multiple answers.
B. The results will vary based on the amount of water that is being tested.
C. Key: The experiment should be repeated multiple times to increase the
reliability of any answers or conclusions that are drawn.
D. Mathematical calculations are helpful, but any influences due to
experimental or environmental conditions need to be accounted for through
scientific investigation.

2. Scientists recently discovered that firing low-energy particles at potatoes keeps the potatoes
from developing unwanted sprouts. They observed that these energy particles prevent cell
division in the sprouts. This stops the potatoes from sprouting for up to 120 days. How will this
development most likely affect the potato industry?
A. by allowing food engineers to improve the ways potatoes can be prepared

B. by allowing potatoes to ripen over a longer period of time to improve flavor
C. by allowing potatoes to be stored longer so they can be sold during winter months
D. by allowing faster transportation to supermarkets so they never run out of potatoes
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Item Information
Answer Key C
p-value A 19%
p-value B 23%
p-value D 7%
Option Annotations A. This technology does not affect the ways that potatoes can be prepared.
B. Potatoes do not require ripening.
C. Key: By preventing the potatoes from sprouting, this technology allows the
potatoes to be stored and kept fresh over a longer period of time.
D. This technology does not affect the amount of time it takes to transport the
potatoes.

3. A student predicts that a solution of ethanol (C2H5OH) and water will have a lower density at
room temperature than that of pure water. Which tools would most help the student test this
prediction?
A. a meterstick and a balance

B. a hot plate and a thermometer
C. a thermometer and a stopwatch
D. a balance and a graduated cylinder
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Item Information
Answer Key D
p-value A 9%
p-value B 24%
p-value C 18%
p-value D 49% (correct answer)
Option Annotations A. A meterstick would not be useful in comparing the unknown densities of
two liquids.
B. The item states that measurements are being done at room temperature;
therefore, a hot plate would not be a useful tool for this experiment.
C. A stopwatch would not be useful in comparing the unknown densities of
two liquids.
D. Key: Density = mass/volume. A balance can be used to accurately
determine the masses of the substances, and the graduated cylinder can
be used to accurately determine the volumes of the liquids.

4. Use the diagram below to answer the question.
Energy Pyramid
trophic
level 3
trophic level 2
trophic level 1
Which statement explains why populations in upper trophic levels tend to have less total mass
than populations in lower trophic levels?
A. Populations in upper trophic levels are more complex than populations in lower trophic
levels.
B. Populations in upper trophic levels have less available habitat than populations in lower
trophic levels.
C. Populations in upper trophic levels have less available energy than populations in lower
trophic levels.
D. Populations in upper trophic levels have more nutrient requirements than populations in
lower trophic levels.
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Item Information
Answer Key C
p-value A 19%
p-value B 26%
p-value D 20%
Option Annotations A. The complexity of individual populations does not have a linear relationship
going up an energy pyramid.
B. Habitat is not determined by an energy pyramid.
C. Key: Typically, the amount of food energy and biomass both decrease going
up the trophic levels of an energy pyramid.
D. Specific nutrient requirements are not determined by trophic levels.

5. Which statement best explains why the carbon cycle is classified as a closed-loop system?
A. Carbon levels are monitored and maintained by plants in a system.

B. The flow of carbon occurs only in nonliving components of a system.
C. Earth’s atmosphere traps all carbon once it passes through living organisms in a system.
D. A fixed amount of carbon flows between the living and nonliving components of a system.
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Item Information
Answer Key D
p-value A 20%
p-value B 13%
p-value C 29%
Option Annotations A. Carbon flows through plants from the atmosphere, but they do not monitor
its flow. A large amount of atmospheric carbon dissolves into the ocean.
B. All living things are composed of carbon.
C. Large amounts of carbon also exist in ocean water and in the ground.
D. Key: Carbon flows in a cycle that includes both living and nonliving parts of
Earth.

6. A mouse’s habitat is a grassland containing rocks, soil, and grass. The mouse lives in a burrow
underground. Based on this information, which statement best describes how the mouse
interacts with its environment?
A. The mouse uses soil for food and shelter.

B. The mouse gets energy from its predators.
C. The mouse changes its environment to create food.
D. The mouse gets energy and shelter from its environment.
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Item Information
Answer Key D
p-value A 20%
p-value B 5%
p-value C 7%
Option Annotations A. The mouse may use the soil for shelter, but it needs the grass for food.
B. The mouse would lose energy avoiding predators.
C. The mouse is a consumer that requires other organisms as a source of
food.
D. Key: Based on the information provided, the mouse must interact with
different parts of its environment for survival.

7. Which relationship would a scientist most likely model using calculations based on the law of
universal gravitation?
A. the motion of planets within the solar system

B. the internal structure and position of the Moon
C. factors that affect Earth’s atmosphere and climate
D. natural events that change the shape of Earth’s surface
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Item Information
Answer Key A
p-value A 64% (correct answer)
p-value B 12%
p-value C 14%
p-value D 10%
Option Annotations A. Key: The motions or orbits of the planets are mostly controlled by
the gravitational pull of the Sun. Orbital models could be made using
calculations based on the law of universal gravitation.
B. Models of the internal structure of the Moon would most likely be based on
geological and seismic information.
C. Models of the atmosphere and climate are based on atmospheric patterns
and historical data.
D. Models of natural events that change the shape of Earth’s surface are
based on physical and geological data.

8. Use the graph below to answer the question.
Dissolved Oxygen Concentration in Pond vs. Time

12
Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)

10
8
6
4
2
0
12 A.M. 4 A.M. 8 A.M. 12 P.M. 4 P.M. 8 P.M. 12 A.M. 4 A.M. 8 A.M.
Time
A scientist measured dissolved oxygen (O2) levels in a pond over time. A graph showing the
results of the measurements is shown. Which statement is the most accurate description of the
events occurring in the pond during the time shown?
A. Aquatic plants consume O2 in the pond through respiration at a constant level.

B. Aquatic plants consume O2 in the pond through respiration mostly during the early morning.
C. Aquatic plants provide additional O2 for the pond through photosynthesis from late
afternoon to early morning.
D. Aquatic plants provide additional O2 for the pond through photosynthesis from early
morning until late afternoon.
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Item Information
Answer Key D
p-value A 8%
p-value B 19%
p-value C 29%
Option Annotations A. The graph does not indicate how much oxygen is being consumed by
cellular respiration.
B. The graph does not indicate how much oxygen is being consumed by
cellular respiration.
C. The graph indicates that oxygen levels are decreasing from late afternoon
through the night until morning.
D. Key: The graph indicates that oxygen levels are increasing from morning
through the day until late afternoon.

9. Use the chart below to answer the question.
Diesel Fuels
Biodiesel Traditional Diesel
•• produced from vegetable oils, animal fats, •• produced from oil
or recycled cooking grease •• made at large refineries
•• made at home or in commercial refineries
Biodiesel is an alternative fuel to traditional diesel. Both produce the same amount of energy.
Which statement best compares biodiesel to traditional diesel?
A. Biodiesel produces no carbon dioxide, while traditional diesel produces large amounts of
the gas.
B. Biodiesel produces a small amount of hydrogen, while traditional diesel produces large
amounts of the gas.
C. Biodiesel is produced from a material that forms over a few months, while traditional diesel
is produced from a material that forms over several million years.
D. Biodiesel is produced from a material that forms over several decades, while traditional
diesel is produced from a material that forms over a few thousand years.
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Item Information
Alignment S8.C.2.2.2
Answer Key C
p-value A 21%
p-value B 18%
p-value D 11%
Option Annotations A. Biodiesel produces carbon dioxide in similar amounts to traditional diesel
fuel.
B. Biodiesel produces hydrogen gas in similar amounts to traditional diesel
fuel.
C. Key: Biodiesel is produced from a renewable resource that may only
take a few months to form, while traditional diesel is produced from non-
renewable fossil fuels that can take millions of years to form.
D. The source of biodiesel takes only a few months to form. The source for
traditional diesel can take millions of years to form.

10. Many people in Pennsylvania depend on groundwater for their water supply. Which action would
most likely provide a greater amount of groundwater?
A. an increase in the amount of infiltration

B. a decrease in the amount of condensation
C. an increase in the amount of developed land surface
D. a decrease in the amount of autumn and winter precipitation
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Item Information
Alignment S8.D.1.3.1
Answer Key A
p-value B 22%
p-value C 23%
p-value D 11%
Option Annotations A. Key: Water soaking into the ground from processes such as precipitation
can help to recharge groundwater supplies.
B. A decrease in condensation would result in less water available to reach
groundwater supplies.
C. An increase in the amount of developed land surface may result in more
surface runoff and evaporation before water can reach groundwater
supplies.
D. A decrease in precipitation would not result in a greater amount of
groundwater.

11. Which statement best describes how thunderstorms form?
A. Convection currents cause cirrus clouds to become wider, resulting in less energy in the
clouds than in the surrounding air.
B. Convection currents cause cumulus clouds to become taller, resulting in more energy in the
clouds than in the surrounding air.
C. Downdrafts resulting from evaporation cause cirrus clouds to become taller, resulting in
more energy in the clouds than in the surrounding air.
D. Downdrafts resulting from evaporation cause cumulus clouds to become wider, resulting in
less energy in the clouds than in the surrounding air.
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Item Information
Answer Key B
p-value A 12%
p-value B 47% (correct answer)
p-value C 23%
p-value D 18%
Option Annotations A. Cirrus clouds are thin, wispy clouds associated with fair weather. Also, an
increase in energy within the clouds occurs.
B. Key: Warm, moist air rises and cold air sinks, causing convection currents.
As the moisture condenses, energy is released. As moisture condenses
out of the lifting air, it is warmer than the surrounding air, causing cumulus
clouds to get taller.
C. Updrafts from condensation (rather than downdrafts from evaporation)
cause cumulus (not cirrus) clouds to get taller.
D. Updrafts from condensation (rather than downdrafts from evaporation)
result in more energy and cause cumulus clouds to get taller.

12. Which statement best explains how a planet affects the orbital path of a comet as the comet
passes by the planet?
A. The speed of the comet creates an area of low pressure as the comet passes by, pulling the
planet toward the comet.
B. The magnetic fields of the comet and the planet produce similar charges, pushing the two
objects apart as the comet passes by.
C. The planet has a stronger gravitational field than the comet has, and the comet is pulled
slightly toward the planet as it passes by.
D. The gravitational field of the planet pulls the comet, which does not have a gravitational
field, toward the planet as the comet passes by.
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Item Information
Answer Key C
p-value A 8%
p-value B 14%
p-value D 23%
Option Annotations A. Comets are much lighter and smaller than planets. The gravitational force of
the planet pulls on the comet.
B. The magnetic fields between comets and planets are not strong enough to
affect their orbits.
C. Key: The gravitational force of a planet can pull a comet slightly towards the
planet as a comet passes by because planets are so much more massive
than comets.
D. Gravity is a force instead of a field. Also, comets do have a gravitational
force, it is just much smaller than a planet’s gravitational force.

Directions: Use the information presented on page 18 to answer questions 13 through 16.
Robotic Roaches
Scientists and engineers regularly study nature to develop new technology. The development of
robotic insects has involved the use of high-speed videography to study the motion of insect wings
during flight. This same technology is also being used in other laboratories to study the movement of
cockroaches.
American Cockroach Cockroach Bot

wing antenna
sensory spine
foot
leg
Scientists have observed cockroaches flattening their bodies to move through cracks no thicker
than two stacked pennies. Studying the video images, scientists observed the cockroaches using
sensory spines on their legs to push against the floor instead of using their feet. Even more amazing,
the cockroaches’ speed remained nearly the same as when they were on their feet. Scientists
also studied the cockroaches’ jointed exoskeleton. It is made up of both hard plates and flexible
membranes, which allow changes to the cockroaches’ body shape. Their smooth wings also reduce
resistance in tight spaces. All of these observations led to the development of a cockroach bot that
can compress and squeeze through extremely small places.
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13. Scientists have observed that the American cockroach can run up to 1.5 m/sec. The average
body length of the American cockroach is around 38 mm. Which statement best describes its
speed relative to its body length?
A. The cockroach runs 10 times its body length per second.

B. The cockroach runs 40 times its body length per second.
C. The cockroach runs 10 times its body length per minute.
D. The cockroach runs 40 times its body length per minute.
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Item Information
Answer Key B
p-value A 30%
p-value C 19%
p-value D 15%
Option Annotations A. The ratio is much greater than 10 times its body length per second.
B. Key: 1.5 m/s / 0.038 m = 39.47 times (about 40 times)
C. The ratio would be larger on a “per minute” scale. The units in the item are
provided in meters per second, not meters per minute.
D. The ratio would be larger on a “per minute” scale. The units in the item are
provided in meters per second, not meters per minute.

14. Using cockroaches as living models, what technology are engineers trying to improve?
A. miniaturized robotics
B. disease control methods
C. alternative power sources
D. audio and visual recording devices
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Item Information
Answer Key A
p-value B 10%
p-value C 10%
p-value D 19%
Option Annotations A. Key: The scientists are trying to improve the technological design of tools or
vehicles that require fast and efficient movements.
B. The work of the scientists is not related to disease control.
C. The scientists are not using the cockroaches as an energy or power source.
D. The scientists are not testing out the effectiveness of their audio and visual
recording devices.

15. How do the sensory spines most likely help the cockroach survive in its environment?
A. They improve the cockroach’s vision so it can see predators sooner.

B. They allow the cockroach to change its body shape to confuse predators.
C. They reduce the friction along the top of the cockroach so it can move faster than
predators.
D. They allow the cockroach to move through small spaces where it is unable to use its feet to
escape predators.
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Item Information
Alignment S8.B.2.1.1
Answer Key D
p-value A 12%
p-value B 11%
p-value C 17%
Option Annotations A. The sensory spines do not provide the cockroach with improved vision.
B. The sensory spines do not change the body shape of the cockroach.
C. The sensory spines are located on the cockroach’s legs. Their main purpose
is not to reduce friction along the top of the cockroach.
D. Key: The sensory spines provide extra surfaces on the cockroach to push
or spring off of objects without using its feet.

16. A scientist was studying cockroach movement through a small passage. The scientist attached
sandpaper to the inside surfaces of the passage. Which variable was the scientist most likely
trying to investigate?
A. weight
B. friction
C. temperature
D. energy transfer
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Item Information
Alignment S8.C.3.1.1
Answer Key B
p-value A 8%
p-value C 6%
p-value D 11%
Option Annotations A. Attaching sandpaper inside the passage would not affect cockroach weight
measurements.
B. Key: Sandpaper has a coarse surface that would provide added friction
against the cockroach’s body.
C. The sandpaper would have the same temperature as its surroundings.
D. The presence of sandpaper inside the passage is not likely to help with
tests on energy transfer.

OPEN-ENDED ITEM
17. The drawings below show the feet of two different animals.
Animal 1 Animal 2
Describe how the features of each animal’s foot likely help the animal survive in
its habitat.
Animal 1:
Animal 2:
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AFTER YOU HAVE CHECKED YOUR WORK, CLOSE YOUR ANSWER

BOOKLET AND TEST BOOKLET SO YOUR TEACHER WILL KNOW
YOU ARE FINISHED.

Item-Specific Scoring Guideline

#17 Item Information
Alignment S8.B.1.1.1 Depth of Knowledge 3 Mean Score 1.27
Scoring Guide
Score Description
The response demonstrates a thorough understanding of how to describe the structures of living
things that help them function effectively in specific ways (e.g., adaptations, characteristics) by
•• describing how the features of each animal’s foot likely help the animal survive in its
2
habitat.
The response is clear, complete, and correct.

The response demonstrates a partial understanding of how to describe the structures of living
things that help them function effectively in specific ways (e.g., adaptations, characteristics) by
•• describing how the features of one animal’s foot likely help that animal survive in its
1
habitat.
The response may contain some work that is incomplete or unclear.

The response provides insufficient evidence to demonstrate any understanding of the concept
0
being tested.
Note: No deductions should be taken for misspelled words or grammatical errors.
Responses that will receive credit (responses are not limited to these examples):
Animal 1 (1 point):
•• This type of foot, a hoof, helps the animal balance on uneven ground.
•• This type of foot, a hoof, helps keep the animal from sinking into wet or muddy ground.
Animal 2 (1 point):
•• This foot is designed for gripping with three digits in the front and two in the back.
•• This foot has sharp claws that help with climbing.
•• This foot has thick pads that help with protection and gripping while climbing.
•• The two opposable thumbs on this foot help provide a secure grip on objects such as branches when
climbing.

STUDENT RESPONSE
Response Score: 2 points
Animal 1 Animal 2
its habitat.
Animal 1:
Animal 2:
This response demonstrates a thorough understanding of how to describe the structures of living things that help them
function effectively in specific ways. In Part A, the response provides several correct descriptions of how Animal 1’s foot
5425 likely helps the animal survive in its habitat (The hoove will help the animal dig into the ground, it will be able to run without
slipping over mud or rocks, The thick fur will help the animal keep warm). In Part B, the response provides several correct
descriptions of how Animal 2’s foot likely helps the animal survive in its habitat (This animals hand-like feet will help it
climb, The sharp claws will also be used for protection against predators, The hair on the finger will also help the animal keep a
little warm). The response is clear, complete, and correct.

STUDENT RESPONSE
Response Score: 1 point
PART A
Question 17
Page 1 of 2

Question 17
Page 2 of 2 PART B
PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019

The response demonstrates a partial understanding of how to describe the structures of living things that help them function effectively
in specific ways. In Part A, the response (This animals foot may not help survive because it does not have any protection like claws) does not
describe how Animal 1’s foot likely helps the animal survive in its habitat and receives no credit. In Part B, the response provides correct
descriptions of how Animal 2’s foot likely helps the animal survive in its habitat (claws can defend the animal, [claws] may help catch it’s prey
and be a protection to fight of predators).
27
STUDENT RESPONSE
Animal 1 Animal 2
its habitat.
Animal 1:
Animal 2:
5425 The response provides insufficient evidence to demonstrate any understanding of how to describe the structures of
living things that help them function effectively in specific ways. In Part A, the response (If the animals foot has sharp claws
they can climb) does not describe how Animal 1’s foot likely helps the animal survive in its habitat and receives no credit.
BOOKLET AND TEST
In Part B, the response (If theyBOOKLET SO YOUR
have a hard surfaced TEACHER
foot they WILL
might shake or KNOW
draw out some prey just by walking) does not
YOU ARE FINISHED.
describe how Animal 2’s foot likely helps the animal survive in its habitat and receives no credit.

OPEN-ENDED ITEM
18. Use the drawing below to answer the question.
Club Soda
Ingredients
carbonated water
CLUB sodium bicarbonate (salt)
SODA sodium chloride (salt)
potassium sulfate (salt)
When club soda is made, carbon dioxide (CO2) is forced into the drink solution,
making it carbonated, or fizzy. The drink solution contains water and salts. If the lid
of the soda is not tightly closed, it loses its carbonation.
Part A: Identify club soda as an element, compound, or mixture.
Part B: Explain the classification of club soda identified in Part A.

BOOKLET AND TEST BOOKLET SO YOUR TEACHER WILL KNOW
YOU ARE FINISHED.

Item-Specific Scoring Guideline

#18 Item Information
Alignment S8.C.1.1.1 Depth of Knowledge 3 Mean Score 0.78
Scoring Guide
Score Description
The response demonstrates a thorough understanding of the differences among elements,
compounds, and mixtures by
•• identifying club soda as an element, compound, or mixture
2 and
•• explaining the classification of club soda.
The response is clear, complete, and correct.

The response demonstrates a partial understanding of the differences among elements,
compounds, and mixtures by
•• identifying club soda as an element, compound, or mixture
1 or
•• explaining the classification of club soda.
The response may contain some work that is incomplete or unclear.

The response provides insufficient evidence to demonstrate any understanding of the concept
0
being tested.
Note: No deductions should be taken for misspelled words or grammatical errors.
Responses that will receive credit:
Part A (1 point):
•• club soda is a mixture
Part B (1 point):
•• Club soda is a mixture because it is composed of different ingredients that are physically combined.
•• Club soda is a mixture because it is composed of different ingredients that are not chemically
combined.
•• Club soda is a mixture because it can be physically separated into its different ingredients.
•• Club soda is a mixture because each of the ingredients maintains its own properties.
•• Club soda is a mixture because it is a combination of ingredients that does not produce a new
substance with different properties.
Scoring Note: Students can describe an investigation that separates components by a physical means (e.g.,
evaporation, filtration) and receive credit for explaining their classification. The response must show a clear
understanding that the process only physically separates the components and does not change the chemical
properties.

THIS PAGE IS

STUDENT RESPONSE
PART A
Question 18
Page 1 of 2

Question 18
Page 2 of 2 PART B

This response demonstrates a thorough understanding of the differences among elements, compounds, and mixtures. In Part A, the
response correctly identifies club soda as a mixture (Club soda is a mixture). In Part B, the response explains the classification of club soda (it
is a mixture because all of the ingredients are put together physically, not chemically). The response is clear, complete, and correct.
33
STUDENT RESPONSE
Response Score: 1 point
18. Use the drawing below to answer the question.
Club Soda
Ingredients
carbonated water
CLUB sodium bicarbonate (salt)
SODA sodium chloride (salt)
potassium sulfate (salt)
When club soda is made, carbon dioxide (CO2) is forced into the drink solution,
making it carbonated, or fizzy. The drink solution contains water and salts. If the lid
of the soda is not tightly closed, it loses its carbonation.
Part A: Identify club soda as an element, compound, or mixture.
Part B: Explain the classification of club soda identified in Part A.
This response demonstrates a partial understanding of the differences among elements, compounds, and mixtures. In
Part A, the response correctly identifies club soda as a mixture (mixture). In Part B, the response (The ingredients could
BOOKLET
be separated ifAND
certainTEST BOOKLET
things are SOfully
done) does not YOUR TEACHER
explain WILL
the classification KNOW
of club soda. It does not specify a physical
YOU ARE FINISHED.
separation and receives no credit.

THIS PAGE IS

STUDENT RESPONSE
PART A
Question 18
Page 1 of 2

Question 18
Page 2 of 2 PART B

The response provides insufficient evidence to demonstrate any understanding of the differences among elements, compounds, and
mixtures. In Part A, the response (compound) does not correctly identify club soda as a mixture and receives no credit. In Part B, the
response (Club soda contains a bunch of elements combined together) does not correctly explain the classification of club soda and receives
no credit.
37
SAMPLE ITEM SUMMARY
MULTIPLE-CHOICE
Sample Depth of p-values p-values p-values p-values

Number Alignment Answer Key Knowledge A B C D
1 S8.A.1.1.2 C 2 9% 12% 66% 13%
2 S8.A.1.2.4 C 2 19% 23% 51% 7%
3 S8.A.2.2.1 D 2 9% 24% 18% 49%
4 S8.A.3.1.2 C 2 19% 26% 35% 20%
5 S8.A.3.1.4 D 2 20% 13% 29% 38%
6 S8.A.3.1.5 D 2 20% 5% 7% 68%
7 S8.A.3.2.1 A 2 64% 12% 14% 10%
8 S8.A.3.3.2 D 3 8% 19% 29% 44%
9 S8.C.2.2.2 C 2 21% 18% 50% 11%
10 S8.D.1.3.1 A 2 44% 22% 23% 11%
11 S8.D.2.1.3 B 2 12% 47% 23% 18%
12 S8.D.3.1.2 C 2 8% 14% 55% 23%
13 S8.A.2.1.1 B 2 30% 36% 19% 15%
14 S8.A.3.2.2 A 2 61% 10% 10% 19%
15 S8.B.2.1.1 D 2 12% 11% 17% 60%
16 S8.C.3.1.1 B 2 8% 75% 6% 11%
OPEN-ENDED
Sample Depth of
Number Alignment Points Knowledge Mean Score
17 S8.B.1.1.1 2 3 1.27
18 S8.C.1.1.1 2 3 0.78

THIS PAGE IS

PSSA Grade 8 Science
Item and Scoring Sampler
Copyright © 2019 by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. The materials contained in this
publication may be duplicated by Pennsylvania educators for local classroom use. This permission
does not extend to the duplication of materials for commercial use.

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The Pennsylvania System

INFORMATION ABOUT SCIENCE

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 ii

PURPOSES AND USES

ITEM FORMAT AND SCORING GUIDELINES

TESTING TIME AND MODE OF TESTING DELIVERY FOR THE PSSA

Science Item Type MC OE

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 1

ITEM AND SCORING SAMPLER FORMAT

Example Multiple-Choice Question Information Table

Example Open-Ended Item Information Table

Alignment Assigned AAEC Depth of Knowledge Assigned DOK Mean Score

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 2

SCIENCE TEST DIRECTIONS

For the multiple-choice questions:

•• Read each question, and choose the best answer.

For the open-ended questions:

•• Be sure to read the directions carefully.

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 3

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF SCORING GUIDELINES FOR SCIENCE OPEN-ENDED ITEMS

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 4

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 5

A. The question likely has more than one answer.

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 6

A. by allowing food engineers to improve the ways potatoes can be prepared

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 7

A. a meterstick and a balance

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 8

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 9

A. Carbon levels are monitored and maintained by plants in a system.

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 10

A. The mouse uses soil for food and shelter.

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 11

A. the motion of planets within the solar system

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 12

Dissolved Oxygen Concentration in Pond vs. Time

Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)

A. Aquatic plants consume O2 in the pond through respiration at a constant level.

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 13

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 14

A. an increase in the amount of infiltration

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 15

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 16

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 17

American Cockroach Cockroach Bot

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 18

A. The cockroach runs 10 times its body length per second.

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 19

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 20

A. They improve the cockroach’s vision so it can see predators sooner.

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 21

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 22

AFTER YOU HAVE CHECKED YOUR WORK, CLOSE YOUR ANSWER

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 23

Item-Specific Scoring Guideline

Alignment S8.B.1.1.1 Depth of Knowledge 3 Mean Score 1.27

The response is clear, complete, and correct.

The response may contain some work that is incomplete or unclear.

Note: No deductions should be taken for misspelled words or grammatical errors.

PSSA Grade 8 Science Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2019 24