Twelfth Grade Standards

12.4.3 By the end of twelfth grade, students will develop an understanding of the theory of biological evolution.
Example Indicators:

• Understand that the concept of biological evolution is a theory which explains the consequence of the interactions of: (1) the potential for a species to increase its numbers; (2) the genetic variability of offspring due to mutation and recombination of genes; (3) a finite supply of the resources of life; and (4) the ensuing selection by the environment of those offspring better able to survive and leave offspring.
• Investigate and use the theory of biological evolution to explain diversity of life.
• Investigate whether natural selection provides a scientific explanation of the fossil record and the molecular similarities among the diverse species of living organisms.
• Investigate and use biological classifications based on similarities.

12.1.2 By the end of twelfth grade, students will develop an understanding of evidence, models, and explanation.
Example Indicators:

• Create a physical, mental, or mathematical model to show how objects and processes are connected.
• Test the usefulness of a model by comparing its predictions to actual observations.
• Understand that the way data are displayed affects interpretation.
• Evaluate the reasonableness of answers to problems.
• Understand that larger well-chosen samples produce more accurate estimates of the characteristics of the total population.
• Understand that a correlation between two variables doesn't mean that either one causes the other.

12.7.3 By the end of twelfth grade, students will develop an understanding of natural resources.
Example Indicators:

• Investigate and explain how human populations use environmental resources to maintain and improve their existence.
• Investigate and understand that the earth has renewable and finite resources.
• Investigate and understand the limitations of natural systems to renew and recycle resources.

12.7.4 By the end of twelfth grade, students will develop an understanding of environmental quality.
Example Indicators:

• Investigate and describe how the positive and negative consequences of human intervention or nonintervention impacts the ecosystem.
• Investigate and explain factors which may influence environmental quality.