Physical Science: Physics · Space Systems

HS-ESS1-2The Big Bang Theory

Performance expectation

Construct an explanation of the Big Bang theory based on astronomical evidence of light spectra, motion of distant galaxies, and composition of matter in the universe.

What NYSED says about assessing it

Clarification statement

Emphasis is on the astronomical evidence of the red shift of light from galaxies as an indication that the universe is currently expanding at an accelerated rate, the cosmic microwave background as the remnant radiation from the Big Bang, and the observed composition of ordinary matter of the universe, primarily found in stars and interstellar gases (from the spectra of electromagnetic radiation from stars), which matches that predicted by the Big Bang theory (3/4 hydrogen and 1/4 helium).

The three dimensions

Every item written to HS-ESS1-2 has to assess all three dimensions together, not the content alone. This is the structural change that made older practice material stop matching the exam.

Science & engineering practice

Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

Disciplinary core ideas
  • ESS1.A: The Universe and Its Stars
  • PS4.B: Electromagnetic Radiation
Crosscutting concepts
  • Energy and Matter

Related performance expectations

Generate a cluster for HS-ESS1-2

Phenomenon stimulus, connected items across the required types, answer key, rubric and figures drawn deterministically from a structured spec — in the format your students will sit.