Virginia SOL LS.1.d.i
The Standard
construct explanations that include qualitative or quantitative relationships between variables
Virginia Standards of Learning for Science · The student will demonstrate an understanding of scientific and engineering practices by
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students explain how one variable changes in relation to another using observations, measurements, tables, or graphs. They describe patterns with words or numbers. They also check whether an explanation matches the evidence and avoids unsupported claims.
What Mastery Looks Like
- A student correctly identifies both variables and describes the direction or size of the relationship. The student cites specific data and explains whether the evidence shows association or supports causation.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may list results without explaining the relationship. They may reverse the variables, treat any correlation as causation, or use vague phrases such as "it changed." Some calculate a difference or rate but never connect it to the biological question.
How to Assess It
- Exit ticket: A plant receives 2, 4, or 6 hours of light and grows 1, 3, or 5 centimeters. Explain the relationship, cite a quantitative pattern, and state whether the data prove causation.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Students measure pulse rates after zero, one, and two minutes of stepping, graph the results, and explain the relationship.
Show a graph of light level and plant growth, then ask students to write which variable changes and how.
Play a card sort matching data tables, relationship statements, and evidence-based explanations.
Compare local temperature and mosquito-count data, then write a cautious explanation that separates association from cause.
Free download
Printable LS.1.d.i Worksheet
A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to LS.1.d.i, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.
PDF, US Letter, prints cleanly in black and white.
Download the worksheetKeep exploring
Related Standards
- PS.1.a.ii
develop hypotheses indicating relationships between independent and dependent variables
- 5.1.a.ii
develop hypotheses as cause-and-effect relationship
- 6.1.d.i
construct explanations that includes qualitative or quantitative relationships between variables
- 4.1.a.ii
develop hypotheses as cause-and-effect relations
Turn this exact standard into a lesson
Grade, subject, topic, and the complete standard are prefilled. Create one free, no account needed.
Also for this standard:Make a WorksheetMake a QuizMake a Sub Lesson