Tier 1
Set shared expectations for core instruction and aligned walkthrough look-fors.
1. Standard At A Glance
Standard: SCI.9.LS3.A
Short description: Ask questions to clarify relationships about the role of DNA and chromosomes in coding the instructions for characteristic traits passed from parents to offspring; make and defend a claim based on evidence that inheritable genetic variations may result from new genetic combinations through meiosis, viable errors occurring during replication, and/or mutations caused by environmental factors.
2. Typical Indicators
- Instructional routines aligned to this standard are visible across 9th Grade classrooms.
- Teams use common criteria to monitor progress on this skill.
- Data cycles show incremental growth in standard-aligned outcomes.
3. Warning Signs
- Implementation quality varies significantly across teams.
- Interventions for this skill are not activated in a timely way.
- Progress data is collected but not used to adjust supports.
4. Escalating Accommodations
Tier 2
Protect targeted intervention time and coaching supports for identified students.
Tier 3
Coordinate intensive individualized plans and cross-team problem-solving cycles.
5. Modifications
- Diverse learners: ensure language access and culturally responsive support design.
- Disabled learners: align staffing/resources for accommodations and specialized instruction.
6. Cross-Curricular Integration
Align science pacing with inquiry-based instruction, materials, and cross-content literacy.