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8

RELEASED SCIENCE ITEMS

This book contains the released Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) 2011 grade 8 science assessment items. This is not a complete set of all TIMSS 2011 assessment items because some items are kept confidential so that they may be used in subsequent cycles of TIMSS to measure trends.

How Can This Set of Released Items Be Used?

In Teacher-designed Assessments. The items in this book present different ways of measuring students’ understanding in various content and cognitive domains. A teacher may use these items to create an assessment according to the needs of the class after reviewing the items and selecting items of interest.

For Feedback on Student Understanding. Student responses can be scored according to the scoring information provided in the book. Items that coincide with concepts taught in class allow the teacher to gain feedback on the students’ understanding of assessed concepts. For example, a teacher might decide to examine the incorrect or partially correct responses of the class. The teacher might use the items to identify particular difficulties or misconceptions experienced by individual students, which can serve as the basis for some remedial teaching or focused practice.

To Benchmark Student Performance. The teacher might also compare the percent of students in the class who responded correctly to an item with the percent of students who responded correctly to the same item in other education systems or in the United States.

TIMSS and PIRLS are copyrighted and are registered trademarks of IEA. Released items from TIMSS and PIRLS assessments are for non-commercial, educational, and research purposes only. Translated versions of items remain the intellectual property of IEA. Although the items are in the public domain, please print an acknowledgement of the source, including the year and name of the assessment you are using. If you publish any part of the released items from TIMSS 2011, please use the following acknowledgement:

SOURCE: TIMSS 2011 Assessment. Copyright © 2013 International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA). Publisher: TIMSS & PIRLS International Study Center, Lynch School of Education, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA and International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA), IEA Secretariat, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

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USER’S GUIDEGrade 8

This book contains TIMSS 2011 released items for grade 8. Each item appears on a single page, on which is provided information about the item’s classification and about international student performance on the item. The items appear in the content domain order, as shown in the index on the next page.

Information about item classification

Take a look at the first item on page 1. Across the top are three boxes which identify the item’s content domain (the subject matter in science that the item assesses), its main topic (the specific topic assessed within that subject matter), and its cognitive domain (the cognitive or thinking process assessed). For this item, the content domain is biology, the main topic is characteristics, classification and life processes of organisms, and the cognitive domain is knowing.

Below the row of boxes and above a boxed-in area of the page is the item label. For this item, it is One function of the uterus. Below the boxed-in area is the item number, which is more commonly used to identify each item than the item label. Within the boxed-in area is the item as it appeared in student test booklets.

Correct answers are shown beneath each item. The correct answer for multiple-choice items is simply a letter code. For example, in the item S032087 on page 3, the letter code C is the correct answer. The correct answers for write-in or open-ended items are explained in a scoring guide. For example, One function of the uterus (page 1), provides an example of a scoring guide, indicating the general nature of correct and incorrect

responses. In some cases, partial credit may be awarded and these items will provide guidelines for fully correct, partially correct, and incorrect responses. Sample student responses are provided for some of the constructed-response items for each scoring category.

Information about international student performance

In the table along the right-hand side of the page are the percent correct statistics for the item. These consist of statistics on the percentage of students in each education system who could answer the question correctly. The lists of education systems are ordered in terms of this percentage. The international average is included as well.

To the right of some of the percent correct statistics are special symbols that indicate when an education system scored significantly higher or significantly lower than the international average. Thus, on the item One function of the uterus as an example, an estimated 46 percent of U.S. students could correctly answer this item; a percentage that was measurably higher than the international average, after taking into account the standard of error associated with the percent correct statistic for the United States and for the international average.

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ITEM INDEXGrade 8

Content Domain Page

BiologyS032007 One function of the uterus ..........................1S032087 Long-term immunity against disease ..........3S032306 Eyes react to changes .................................4S032315 Antelope population graph ........................7S032451 Difference in snail shell colors ......................8S032465 Cells that destroy bacteria ........................10S032514 Growth of algae in a lake ..........................11S032530Z Conditions for germination-DERIVED .........12S032542 Classification of animals ...........................14S032611 Purpose of cellular respiration ...................15S032614 Number of kidneys son has at birth ..........16S032640 Exercise is important for health .................18S032645 True statement about producers ..............20S032665A Population in countries: predict ................21S032665B Population in countries: land use ..............23S032665C Population in countries: pollution ..............25S042007 Lungs in bird/which organ in frog .............27S042017 Function of cell part X ................................28S042022 CO2 concentration & photosynthesis ......29S042024 Process of respiration .................................31S042038 Where organisms appeared on Earth ......32S042051A Year of highest rabbit population .............33S042051B Relation of rabbit-fox populations .............35S042261 Life function of Paramecium ......................37S042297 Investigation of green/red peppers ..........39S042298 Importance of removing weeds ................41S042304 Conclusion from pulse rate-T graph ..........43S052030 Water travels through a plant ....................44S052080 Foods diabetics should avoid ...................45S052088 Layers of rock with fossils ............................46S052091 Mayor wants to plant trees ........................47S052093 Genetic makeup of twins ..........................49

Chemistry S032056 Sodium bicarbonate in vinegar ................50S032156 Solubility/temperature graphs ..................52S032502 Diagram of water molecules .....................53S032570 Identify if substance is metal .....................54S032579 Diagram for structure of matter .................56S032679 Energy released during a reaction ...........57S042063 Which rod causes the bulb to light ...........59S042073 Formula for carbon dioxide .......................60S042076 Number of atoms in H2SO4 molecule .....61S042095 Ammonia solution mixed in vinegar ........63S042100 Observations for reaction ..........................64S042112 Process in which energy absorbed ...........66S042305 Classify element/compound/mixture ......67S042306 Definition of a compound .........................69

Content Domain Page

Chemistry (continued)

S052046 Fire put out by blanket ...............................70S052136 List two substances that are metal ............71S052152 Atoms in a crushed can ............................73S052254 Water splitting rock .....................................74

Physics S032024 Energy conversion in a flashlight ...............75S032141 Gravity acting on parachute jumper ........76S032158 Molecules of gas when heated ................77S032184 Bulbs in series/parallel circuit ....................78S032238 Gaps between metal rail spans ................79S032272 Water level in heated container ................80S032279 Why bottle collapses in the valley .............82S032369 Sound from electric bell in jar ...................83S032394 Heat conduction through copper rod ......85S042173Z Change-stay the same-DERIVED ...............86S042197 Strength of a magnet ................................88S042238A Position of thermometer ............................89S042238B One variable kept constant.......................90S042238C Conclusion from the graph .......................92S042272 Molecules of liquid when it cools ..............94S042274 Speed of light through substances ...........95S042278 Path of light through periscope ................96S042403 Find out if metal 2 is a magnet..................98S042404 Liquid on outside of pitcher .....................100S042407 Which ice block will melt first ...................102S052165A Water wheel: Energy of tank water .........104S052165B Water wheel: Energy before wheel ..........106S052165C Water wheel: Faster rotation ....................108S052207 In which liquid would object float ...........110

Earth Science S032060 Order of steps in the water cycle ............112S032126 Volcanic eruption effects .........................114S032151 Major cause of tides ................................116S032160 Difference between planets and moons ..117S032463 Soil change due to natural causes ........118S032510 Material that breaks down quickly ..........119S032650Z Changes at high elevations-DERIVED .....120S032651A Topographic map: identify X ...................122S032651B Topographic map: river path...................123S032654 Location of jungle ....................................125S042141 Where active volcanoes are found .........126S042215 Diagram of an eclipse of the moon........127S042317 Evaporated water ending up as rain ......128S052032 Evidence continents were joined ............130S052106 Advantage of terracing method .............132S052297 Holes in volcanic rocks ............................134

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Copyright © 2013 International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA). 1

TIMSS 2011 8th-Grade Science Concepts and Science Items

Percent higher than International average

Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main TopicCharacteristics, Classification,

and Life Processes of Organisms

Cognitive Domain

Knowing

One function of the uterus

The uterus (womb) is part of the reproductive system in mammals. Name one function of the uterus.

Item Number: S032007

SCORINGCorrect Response• States that the embryo (fetus, baby, fertilized egg, etc.) develops in the uterus (or similar).Examples:The uterus protects the baby while it grows.The baby develops from the egg inside the uterus. • Other correctExample: The muscles in the uterus contract and push the baby out.

Incorrect Response• States a reproductive organ or function but with an incorrect/inadequate connection to the function

of the uterus.• Confuses the reproductive and urinary systems.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)

Overall Percent Correct

Education systemPercent correct

Singapore 72Finland 64Israel 63Syrian Arab Republic 60Slovenia 59England-GBR 58Korea, Rep. of 57Chinese Taipei-CHN 54Saudi Arabia 53Australia 52Russian Federation 51Lithuania 50Kazakhstan 50Japan 49Iran, Islamic Rep. 47United States 46New Zealand 46United Arab Emirates 46Sweden 45Hong Kong-CHN 44Jordan 42Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 42International average 40Chile 39Norway 39Bahrain 39Ukraine 37Macedonia, Rep. of 37Italy 37Ghana 31Georgia 31Oman 28Qatar 28Hungary 27Indonesia 26Turkey 25Romania 24Tunisia 23Morocco 21Thailand 20Lebanon 17Malaysia 11Armenia 3

Benchmarking education system

Percentcorrect

Minnesota-USA 65Massachusetts-USA 58Alberta-CAN 55Connecticut-USA 53Indiana-USA 53Colorado-USA 49Quebec-CAN 48North Carolina-USA 44Dubai-UAE 44Florida-USA 43Ontario-CAN 41Abu Dhabi-UAE 39California-USA 38Alabama-USA 33

Percent lower than International average



One function of the uterus (continued)S032007:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:



Percent higher than International average Percent lower than International average

Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Human Health

Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Long-term immunity against disease

Which of the following can provide the human body with long-term immunity against some diseases?

A. antibiotics

B. vitamins

C. vaccines

D. red blood cells


Correct Response: C



Finland 81Sweden 75Italy 74Syrian Arab Republic 65England-GBR 64Iran, Islamic Rep. of 62Turkey 61Tunisia 59Norway 57Singapore 56United States 56Australia 55Russian Federation 55Israel 53Japan 53Thailand 50New Zealand 49Hong Kong-CHN 49Slovenia 48Macedonia, Rep. of 48Chinese Taipei-CHN 47Lebanon 47Bahrain 46International average 45United Arab Emirates 45Chile 43Georgia 39Qatar 37Armenia 36Morocco 36Hungary 34Romania 32Kazakhstan 31Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 31Ukraine 30Saudi Arabia 28Jordan 24Lithuania 23Oman 20Malaysia 15Indonesia 11Ghana 8Korea, Rep. of —


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 71Indiana-USA 66Minnesota-USA 65North Carolina-USA 64Alberta-CAN 57Colorado-USA 56Florida-USA 56Connecticut-USA 54Quebec-CAN 54Dubai-UAE 51Ontario-CAN 50California-USA 48Abu Dhabi-UAE 43Alabama-USA 43

— Not applicable




Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main TopicCharacteristics, Classification, and Life Processes of Organ-

isms

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Eyes react to changes

Diagram 1

Diagram 2

Diagrams 1 and 2 illustrate the same pair of eyes that have reacted to a change in an environmental condition.

What is the environmental condition and how is it diff erent for the eyes in Diagram 1 and Diagram 2?


SCORINGCorrect Response• Indicates LIGHT and identifies which diagram corresponds to the low/high light level. Diagram 1 = dim light, low light level, darkness, or similarDiagram 2 = bright light, high light level, or similarExample: There is less light in Diagram 1. The pupil has gotten larger to let in more light.• Other fully correct

Partially Correct Response• Indicates LIGHT but does not identify which diagram corresponds to low/high light level.Example: It is the light level. In Diagram 1, the pupils are bigger. In diagram 2 they are smaller.• Other partially correct

Incorrect Response• Indicates LIGHT but reverses the conditions in Diagrams 1 and 2.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Korea, Rep. of 74Finland 65Sweden 63Hungary 59Russian Federation 54Lithuania 52Slovenia 49New Zealand 48Norway 48Australia 48Italy 48United States 47England-GBR 46Japan 45Hong Kong-CHN 43Chinese Taipei-CHN 37Ukraine 35Turkey 33Israel 33International average 31Romania 28Iran, Islamic Rep. of 27Singapore 26Malaysia 22Kazakhstan 21Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 21United Arab Emirates 21Bahrain 19Macedonia, Rep. of 19Armenia 18Thailand 18Chile 18Tunisia 17Georgia 17Qatar 16Syrian Arab Republic 16Lebanon 13Oman 13Jordan 10Saudi Arabia 7Indonesia 6Morocco 3Ghana 2


Percentcorrect

Alberta-CAN 58Minnesota-USA 57Massachusetts-USA 56Colorado-USA 52Connecticut-USA 51Indiana-USA 47North Carolina-USA 46Florida-USA 45Quebec-CAN 43Ontario-CAN 41Alabama-USA 37California-USA 37Dubai-UAE 33Abu Dhabi-UAE 17




Eyes react to changes (continued)S032306:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Partially Correct Response:



Eyes react to changes (continued)S032306:

Student Responses

Incorrect Response:




Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Ecosystems

Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Antelope population graph

The graph indicates the number of antelopes in a certain area over a period of time. Which of the following factors is most likely to have caused the sudden change in population between 1999 and 2000?

A. global warming

B. absence of predators

C. depletion of the ozone layer

D. brush fi res that destroyed the food supply

1996

1997

1998

1999

2000

Popu

latio

n

Year

100

200

300

400


Correct Response: D



Russian Federation 75Ukraine 69Singapore 68Finland 64Malaysia 64Israel 63Hungary 63England-GBR 62Lithuania 61Slovenia 61United States 58Tunisia 57Chinese Taipei-CHN 54New Zealand 54Kazakhstan 54Australia 53Iran, Islamic Rep. of 51Thailand 51International average 48Indonesia 47Chile 46Georgia 44United Arab Emirates 44Bahrain 44Romania 44Norway 43Sweden 42Italy 42Hong Kong-CHN 42Saudi Arabia 41Jordan 40Turkey 39Armenia 39Morocco 39Syrian Arab Republic 37Japan 37Macedonia, Rep. of 35Qatar 35Oman 35Korea, Rep. of 32Ghana 32Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 31Lebanon 18


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 66Minnesota-USA 65Colorado-USA 64Indiana-USA 62Alberta-CAN 61Florida-USA 59North Carolina-USA 58Connecticut-USA 54California-USA 50Quebec-CAN 48Alabama-USA 45Abu Dhabi-UAE 45Dubai-UAE 42Ontario-CAN 42




Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Diversity, Adaptation, and Natural Selection

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Difference in snail shell colors

Some birds eat snails. A species of snail that lives in the forest has a dark shell. Th e same species of snail that lives in a fi eld has a light-colored shell. Explain how this diff erence in shell colors helps the snails to survive.


SCORINGCorrect Response• Explanation refers explicitly to BOTH camouflage (blending in with surroundings, or similar) AND

protection from birds, predators, enemies, etc.Example: The snails that live in the forest have dark shells so the birds cannot see them to eat them.• Explanation refers only to camouflage, blending in with surroundings, or similar. [Protection from

predators NOT explicitly mentioned.]Example: It helps the snail to camouflage with their surroundings.• Other fully correct

Partially Correct Response• Explanation refers only to not being eaten or seen by predators. [Camouflage NOT referenced.]Example: So the birds will not eat them.• Other partially correct

Incorrect Response• Mentions only that it is dark in the forest and light in the field. [Does not explicitly refer to

camouflage, protection from predators, or similar.]• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Hungary 79Finland 79Russian Federation 76England-GBR 76Singapore 74Ukraine 73Australia 73United States 71Sweden 66Japan 65Korea, Rep. of 65New Zealand 65Chinese Taipei-CHN 62Slovenia 61Hong Kong-CHN 61Lithuania 60Norway 60Israel 57Thailand 57Italy 56Kazakhstan 52Turkey 50International average 45Georgia 40Romania 40Iran, Islamic Rep. of 39Chile 37United Arab Emirates 28Armenia 28Oman 27Syrian Arab Republic 26Bahrain 24Qatar 22Jordan 21Tunisia 20Macedonia, Rep. of 19Indonesia 16Lebanon 15Malaysia 15Saudi Arabia 12Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 11Morocco 3Ghana 2


Percentcorrect

Colorado-USA 79Massachusetts-USA 78Minnesota-USA 77Connecticut-USA 76Alberta-CAN 75Ontario-CAN 74Indiana-USA 74North Carolina-USA 69Florida-USA 66Quebec-CAN 65California-USA 64Alabama-USA 63Dubai-UAE 42Abu Dhabi-UAE 26




Difference in snail shell colors (continued)S032451:

Student Responses

Correct Response:


Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Human Health

Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Cells that destroy bacteria

Bacteria that enter the body are destroyed by which type of cells?

A. white blood cells

B. red blood cells

C. kidney cells

D. lung cells


Correct Response: A



Chinese Taipei-CHN 86Singapore 84Korea, Rep. of 80Italy 78Japan 77United States 76Sweden 74Thailand 73England-GBR 71Iran, Islamic Rep. of 71Australia 70Israel 70Lithuania 68Lebanon 68Tunisia 68Finland 68Saudi Arabia 67Kazakhstan 67Hong Kong-CHN 66Indonesia 66Hungary 64New Zealand 62International average 61Romania 60Macedonia, Rep. of 60Syrian Arab Republic 60Russian Federation 59Qatar 59Bahrain 58United Arab Emirates 57Armenia 55Malaysia 54Norway 54Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 52Chile 48Jordan 48Oman 43Ukraine 42Ghana 40Turkey 37Georgia 35Morocco 31Slovenia 30


Percentcorrect

Indiana-USA 85Minnesota-USA 84Massachusetts-USA 79Connecticut-USA 79North Carolina-USA 79Florida-USA 78Alberta-CAN 77Ontario-CAN 77Colorado-USA 76Alabama-USA 74Dubai-UAE 70California-USA 69Quebec-CAN 60Abu Dhabi-UAE 56




Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Ecosystems

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Growth of algae in a lake

In a lake near a farm the growth of algae suddenly increased. Th is increase was most likely due to which of the following?

A. a decrease in air temperature

B. a decrease in water level

C. fertilizer runoff from the farm

D. exhaust gases from farm equipment


Correct Response: C



Finland 74Chinese Taipei-CHN 67Georgia 65Slovenia 64Hong Kong-CHN 61Romania 60Sweden 59Japan 59Israel 57Ukraine 56Kazakhstan 55Thailand 54Russian Federation 52Norway 52Singapore 52Lithuania 50Hungary 50Jordan 49Korea, Rep. of 49United States 48International average 47Italy 47Chile 47Malaysia 46Tunisia 46Macedonia, Rep. of 45Turkey 43Indonesia 43Oman 41New Zealand 40England-GBR 40Syrian Arab Republic 40Saudi Arabia 39United Arab Emirates 39Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 39Bahrain 36Qatar 36Armenia 35Iran, Islamic Rep. of 35Australia 34Morocco 31Ghana 30Lebanon 27


Percentcorrect

North Carolina-USA 72Minnesota-USA 63Quebec-CAN 60Massachusetts-USA 57Florida-USA 57Connecticut-USA 53Indiana-USA 53Colorado-USA 51Alberta-CAN 48Dubai-UAE 40Ontario-CAN 39Alabama-USA 39California-USA 38Abu Dhabi-UAE 36




Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Life Cycles, Reproduction, and Heredity

Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Conditions for germination-DERIVED

Many seeds can germinate in the light or in the dark. State two conditions necessary for germination.

1.

2.

Item Number: S032530Z

SCORINGNote: Each of the two responses are scored separately. However, if the two responses are essentially the same, the second response should be scored as “Incorrect Response”.

Correct Response• Water (moisture, rain) or similar.Example: Humid conditions• Suitable temperature (heat, warmth) or similar.Example: Heat about 27° C• Oxygen (air).• Other correct

Incorrect Response• Soil or similar.• Sun, sunlight, or light (no explicit mention of heat, warmth or similar).• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Singapore 55Kazakhstan 46Japan 40Russian Federation 38Lithuania 36Ukraine 32Slovenia 32Tunisia 29England-GBR 26Hong Kong-CHN 26Korea, Rep. of 26Georgia 25Romania 23Armenia 23Macedonia, Rep. of 23Israel 22Bahrain 21Chinese Taipei-CHN 21International average 21Turkey 20Ghana 20Finland 20New Zealand 20Sweden 18Norway 17Hungary 16United Arab Emirates 15Syrian Arab Republic 14Malaysia 14Chile 13Jordan 13Iran, Islamic Rep. of 13Morocco 13Qatar 12Saudi Arabia 11Australia 11United States 11Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 11Lebanon 10Italy 10Thailand 7Oman 7Indonesia 4


Percentcorrect

Dubai-UAE 20Quebec-CAN 18Alberta-CAN 15Connecticut-USA 15Abu Dhabi-UAE 15Massachusetts-USA 15Indiana-USA 13Colorado-USA 13Minnesota-USA 12California-USA 11North Carolina-USA 11Alabama-USA 11Ontario-CAN 10Florida-USA 8




Conditions for germination (continued)S032530Z:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

1.

2.

Incorrect Response:

1.

2.



Content Domain

BIOLOGY


isms

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Classification of animals

The following table shows the classifi cation of some animals into two categories.

Category 1 Category 2

rabbit frog

giraff e spider

elephant lion

Which of the following was used to classify these animals?

A. organs used in breathing

B. food source

C. method of reproduction

D. pattern of movement


Correct Response: B



Singapore 76Chinese Taipei-CHN 73Finland 71Japan 70Korea, Rep. of 68Slovenia 68Hungary 67Russian Federation 64Hong Kong-CHN 59Italy 58Israel 54Sweden 53Turkey 52Lithuania 52Thailand 52Tunisia 51Ukraine 51Norway 51Australia 50International average 49Chile 49Syrian Arab Republic 49New Zealand 49United States 45Malaysia 45England-GBR 45Qatar 45Lebanon 45Bahrain 44Romania 43Morocco 43United Arab Emirates 42Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 41Oman 40Macedonia, Rep. of 37Iran, Islamic Rep. of 37Kazakhstan 36Saudi Arabia 36Jordan 36Indonesia 34Armenia 33Georgia 31Ghana 28


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 57Alberta-CAN 55Quebec-CAN 52Colorado-USA 50Minnesota-USA 48Florida-USA 46Connecticut-USA 46Dubai-UAE 45Ontario-CAN 44California-USA 41Abu Dhabi-UAE 41North Carolina-USA 40Indiana-USA 38Alabama-USA 36




Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Cells and Their Functions

Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Purpose of cellular respiration

Which of the following best describes the purpose of cellular respiration?

A. to provide energy for cell activities

B. to produce sugar for storage in cells

C. to release oxygen for breathing

D. to supply carbon dioxide for photosynthesis


Correct Response: A



Korea, Rep. of 66Russian Federation 62Singapore 58Japan 56Israel 48Chinese Taipei-CHN 47Turkey 46Hong Kong-CHN 45Lithuania 43Italy 42United Arab Emirates 40Australia 39Slovenia 38Saudi Arabia 37Macedonia, Rep. of 36Ukraine 36England-GBR 35International average 35Chile 35Malaysia 34Ghana 34Norway 34Tunisia 33Qatar 33Sweden 33Oman 32Lebanon 32Iran, Islamic Rep. of 32Indonesia 31Bahrain 31Finland 30United States 30New Zealand 29Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 26Armenia 24Morocco 24Syrian Arab Republic 23Romania 23Hungary 23Georgia 21Kazakhstan 20Thailand 19Jordan 17


Percentcorrect

North Carolina-USA 43Dubai-UAE 43Abu Dhabi-UAE 41Massachusetts-USA 41Minnesota-USA 39Connecticut-USA 36Colorado-USA 34California-USA 34Ontario-CAN 33Indiana-USA 33Alabama-USA 31Alberta-CAN 31Florida-USA 30Quebec-CAN 26




Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Applying

Number of kidneys son has at birth

Kidneys are organs found in the human body. When he was young, a man had one of his two kidneys removed because it was diseased. He now has a son.

A. How many kidneys did his son have at birth? _______________

B. Explain your answer.


SCORINGCorrect Response• TWO with an explanation based on the removal of a kidney not being a hereditary trait (or similar).Examples:Removal of his kidney is not in his genes, so it will not be passed on.It’s not hereditary.• TWO with an explanation based on all humans (normally) having two kidneys at birth (or similar).

[No explicit mention of heredity.]Examples:Everybody is born with two kidneys unless they have a disease.His child would still have the normal number, which is 2.• Other correct

Incorrect Response• ONE with or without explanation.• TWO with no explanation or an incorrect explanation.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Korea, Rep. of 75Singapore 75United States 75Chinese Taipei-CHN 72Slovenia 71Finland 71Hungary 70Sweden 68Japan 67Russian Federation 67Kazakhstan 67Hong Kong-CHN 66Australia 65England-GBR 65Israel 64Lithuania 64New Zealand 63Norway 60Italy 60Chile 59Ukraine 57Iran, Islamic Rep. of 56Romania 56Turkey 54International average 53Jordan 53Saudi Arabia 51Thailand 49Armenia 45United Arab Emirates 41Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 40Bahrain 40Tunisia 40Georgia 39Indonesia 39Syrian Arab Republic 36Macedonia, Rep. of 34Qatar 32Oman 32Malaysia 30Lebanon 24Morocco 24Ghana 18


Percentcorrect

Indiana-USA 81Massachusetts-USA 81Minnesota-USA 80Colorado-USA 79North Carolina-USA 76Florida-USA 75Connecticut-USA 72Quebec-CAN 70California-USA 69Ontario-CAN 67Alabama-USA 66Alberta-CAN 66Dubai-UAE 45Abu Dhabi-UAE 44




Number of kidneys son has at birth (continued)S032614:

Student Responses

Correct Response:Kidneys are organs found in the human body. When he was young, a man had one of his two kidneys removed because it was diseased. He now has a son.



Incorrect Response:Kidneys are organs found in the human body. When he was young, a man had one of his two kidneys removed because it was diseased. He now has a son.





Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Human Health

Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Exercise is important for health

State one reason why exercise is important for good health.


SCORINGCorrect Response• States weight loss, preventing fat storage, lowering cholesterol, or similar.Example: It burns fat.• States that exercise is beneficial for the heart, circulation, oxygen levels, or similar.Example: It keeps your heart in good condition so you don’t have heart attacks.• States building muscle strength/tone or similar.Example: It helps build muscle.• Other correct

Incorrect Response• Gives only a general response related to staying healthy, fit, being strong, or similar.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



England-GBR 74Hungary 73Slovenia 70Hong Kong-CHN 69Finland 68Sweden 66United States 66Australia 65Kazakhstan 65Jordan 65Japan 65Singapore 64Chinese Taipei-CHN 62New Zealand 60Norway 60Italy 59Israel 59Bahrain 58Chile 58Saudi Arabia 58Turkey 55Korea, Rep. of 54United Arab Emirates 53Iran, Islamic Rep. of 53International average 53Russian Federation 52Syrian Arab Republic 52Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 50Qatar 49Romania 49Armenia 47Tunisia 47Lithuania 46Thailand 46Georgia 43Oman 41Indonesia 40Ukraine 38Malaysia 36Morocco 32Macedonia, Rep. of 28Lebanon 23Ghana 12


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 77Connecticut-USA 75Colorado-USA 74Ontario-CAN 72Minnesota-USA 71Alberta-CAN 71North Carolina-USA 68Florida-USA 66Indiana-USA 66Quebec-CAN 63California-USA 62Alabama-USA 59Dubai-UAE 56Abu Dhabi-UAE 55




Exercise is important for health (continued)S032640:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Ecosystems

Cognitive Domain

Knowing

True statement about producers

Which of the following statements is true about organisms that are producers?

A. They use energy from the sun to make food.

B. They absorb energy from a host animal.

C. They get energy from eating living plants.

D. They get energy by breaking down dead plants and animals.


Correct Response: A



Singapore 82Chinese Taipei-CHN 76Slovenia 73Macedonia, Rep. of 68Jordan 66United States 66Turkey 63Israel 62United Arab Emirates 59Finland 59England-GBR 59Korea, Rep. of 59Indonesia 57Malaysia 57Oman 57Hong Kong-CHN 56Georgia 56Lithuania 55Qatar 53New Zealand 53Australia 52Thailand 50Syrian Arab Republic 50International average 49Chile 48Norway 48Russian Federation 44Ukraine 44Ghana 43Bahrain 43Kazakhstan 41Italy 40Hungary 40Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 38Sweden 37Saudi Arabia 36Armenia 34Japan 33Iran, Islamic Rep. of 30Lebanon 29Romania 28Morocco 21Tunisia 13


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 75Alberta-CAN 73North Carolina-USA 72Florida-USA 66Connecticut-USA 66Minnesota-USA 66Indiana-USA 65Dubai-UAE 61Abu Dhabi-UAE 60Colorado-USA 59Alabama-USA 59Ontario-CAN 55California-USA 52Quebec-CAN 40




Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Ecosystems

Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Population in countries: predict

There are more than 6 billion people in the world who share the world’s natural resources. Look at the table below. It shows some information for two fi ctitious countries (1 and 2).

Country 1 Country 2

Population (millions) 200 500

Annual birth rate (births per 1000 people) 10 40

Annual death rate (deaths per 1000 people) 10 10

Area in square kilometers 2,000,000 2,000,000

Grain production (percentage of world total) 40% 20%

Oil consumption (percentage of world total) 20% 5%

A. Based on the information given in the table, predict how the population of each country will change over the next ten years. (Check one box in each row.)

Country 1

Country 2

PopulationWill

Increase

PopulationWill

Decrease

PopulationWill

Stay the Same

Item Number: S032665A

SCORINGCorrect Response• Country 1: Population will stay the same.• Country 2: Population will increase.

Incorrect Response• Country 1 correct; Country 2 incorrect• Country 2 correct; Country 1 incorrect• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Hong Kong-CHN 67Finland 67Chinese Taipei-CHN 57Japan 57Singapore 54Sweden 53Slovenia 53Israel 52Korea, Rep. of 51England-GBR 50Italy 49Lithuania 49Russian Federation 48Australia 48New Zealand 46Norway 43Hungary 41United States 39Turkey 35International average 35Ukraine 33Iran, Islamic Rep. of 31United Arab Emirates 30Kazakhstan 30Thailand 29Bahrain 28Chile 28Romania 27Tunisia 26Armenia 24Qatar 24Saudi Arabia 23Lebanon 23Jordan 23Macedonia, Rep. of 21Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 17Malaysia 16Syrian Arab Republic 16Morocco 15Oman 14Georgia 13Indonesia 11Ghana 6


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 53Ontario-CAN 53North Carolina-USA 52Minnesota-USA 50Alberta-CAN 49Quebec-CAN 48Colorado-USA 48Connecticut-USA 45Indiana-USA 43Florida-USA 39Dubai-UAE 37California-USA 33Alabama-USA 31Abu Dhabi-UAE 30




Population in countries: predict (continued)S032665A:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Th ere are more than 6 billion people in the world who share the world’s natural resources. Look at the table below. It shows some information for two fi ctitious countries (1 and 2).

Country 1 Country 2








Country 1

Country 2

PopulationWill

Increase

PopulationWill

Decrease

PopulationWill

Stay the Same

Incorrect Response:

Th ere are more than 6 billion people in the world who share the world’s natural resources. Look at the table below. It shows some information for two fi ctitious countries (1 and 2).

Country 1 Country 2








Country 1

Country 2

PopulationWill

Increase

PopulationWill

Decrease

PopulationWill

Stay the Same



Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Ecosystems

Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Population in countries: land use


Country 1 Country 2







B. Predict how the population of the two countries will aff ect each of the following environmental factors over the next ten years.

Land Use:

Item Number: S032665B

SCORINGCorrect Response• Predicts that land use in Country 2 is likely to increase (due to the increased population).• Predicts that land use will increase with population. [Does not explicitly refer to Country 1 or

Country 2.]• Makes a prediction about land use based on the current population that is supported by data in the

table.• Other correct

Incorrect Response• Makes a statement about land use that is NOT explicitly connected to either population prediction

or data in the table.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Singapore 53Japan 41Chinese Taipei-CHN 39Israel 36England-GBR 35Hong Kong-CHN 35New Zealand 35Australia 33Hungary 31Slovenia 31United States 29Korea, Rep. of 28Turkey 28Kazakhstan 26Lithuania 25Russian Federation 24International average 21Finland 21United Arab Emirates 20Sweden 20Thailand 20Ukraine 20Bahrain 19Iran, Islamic Rep. of 19Jordan 18Italy 16Qatar 15Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 15Norway 14Oman 12Syrian Arab Republic 12Macedonia, Rep. of 12Malaysia 11Chile 11Romania 10Tunisia 9Armenia 8Indonesia 8Georgia 7Lebanon 6Saudi Arabia 5Morocco 5Ghana 3


Percentcorrect

Ontario-CAN 47Massachusetts-USA 43Alberta-CAN 43Minnesota-USA 41Colorado-USA 36North Carolina-USA 32Connecticut-USA 32Indiana-USA 31Florida-USA 30Dubai-UAE 28Alabama-USA 28Quebec-CAN 27California-USA 22Abu Dhabi-UAE 17




Population in countries: land use (continued)S032665B:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Ecosystems

Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Population in countries: pollution


Country 1 Country 2







B. Predict how the population of the two countries will aff ect each of the following environmental factors over the next ten years.

Pollution:

Item Number: S032665C

SCORINGCorrect Response• Predicts that pollution in Country 2 may increase (due to factors related to the growing population).Example: There will be more pollution in Country 2 as the population increases• Predicts that pollution will increase with population. [Does not explicitly refer to Country 1 or

Country 2.]Example: Many more people means more pollution.• Makes a prediction about pollution based on the current population that is supported by data in the

table.Example: Country 1 will pollute more because it consumes more oil than Country 2.• Othercorrect

Incorrect Response• Makes a statement about pollution that is NOT explicitly connected to either population prediction

or data in the table.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Singapore 51Chinese Taipei-CHN 40England-GBR 37Australia 37New Zealand 35Japan 35Turkey 34Hungary 34Korea, Rep. of 34Hong Kong-CHN 32Lithuania 32Israel 31United States 30Slovenia 30Russian Federation 28Finland 26Jordan 26Iran, Islamic Rep. of 26Kazakhstan 23International average 22United Arab Emirates 22Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 20Ukraine 20Chile 20Sweden 20Thailand 19Italy 18Bahrain 18Qatar 18Tunisia 17Syrian Arab Republic 14Norway 14Oman 14Romania 13Armenia 10Indonesia 9Malaysia 9Macedonia, Rep. of 9Georgia 9Lebanon 8Morocco 6Ghana 2Saudi Arabia 2


Percentcorrect

Ontario-CAN 46Minnesota-USA 43Massachusetts-USA 41North Carolina-USA 39Alberta-CAN 38Colorado-USA 38Connecticut-USA 37Indiana-USA 36Quebec-CAN 30Florida-USA 29Dubai-UAE 28California-USA 24Alabama-USA 21Abu Dhabi-UAE 21




Population in countries: pollution (continued)S032665C:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

BIOLOGY


isms

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Lungs in bird/which organ in frog

Which organ in a frog has a function similar to the function of lungs in a bird?

A. kidney

B. skin

C. liver

D. heart


Correct Response: B



Russian Federation 83Ukraine 72Tunisia 67Lithuania 66Singapore 62Finland 62Chinese Taipei-CHN 60Korea, Rep. of 60Slovenia 59Hungary 59Syrian Arab Republic 52Italy 51Thailand 48Kazakhstan 47Macedonia, Rep. of 46Indonesia 44Lebanon 43International average 43United Arab Emirates 42Japan 42Georgia 40Bahrain 40Australia 39Iran, Islamic Rep. of 38Saudi Arabia 38Romania 37Hong Kong-CHN 37Morocco 36Sweden 35England-GBR 34Israel 33Jordan 33New Zealand 32Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 32United States 32Armenia 31Qatar 30Malaysia 30Oman 28Turkey 28Norway 24Chile 21Ghana 21


Percentcorrect

Alberta-CAN 47Massachusetts-USA 44Dubai-UAE 40Minnesota-USA 38Colorado-USA 37Indiana-USA 36Abu Dhabi-UAE 36North Carolina-USA 36Ontario-CAN 32Connecticut-USA 32Florida-USA 30Quebec-CAN 30Alabama-USA 26California-USA 23




Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Applying

Function of cell part X

X

The diagram shows a plant cell.

What is the function of the part of the cell labeled X?

A. It stores water.

B. It makes food.

C. It absorbs energy.

D. It controls activities.


Correct Response: D



Singapore 80Lithuania 51Korea, Rep. of 49Russian Federation 47Tunisia 47Oman 46Georgia 44United States 44United Arab Emirates 44Macedonia, Rep. of 43Italy 43Slovenia 42Thailand 42Ukraine 41Malaysia 41Hungary 41England-GBR 39Qatar 38Australia 37International average 36Iran, Islamic Rep. of 35Israel 34Turkey 34New Zealand 34Armenia 33Bahrain 33Indonesia 33Chinese Taipei-CHN 33Jordan 32Kazakhstan 31Finland 30Hong Kong-CHN 30Romania 29Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 28Ghana 28Japan 28Saudi Arabia 27Syrian Arab Republic 26Lebanon 23Morocco 22Sweden 21Norway 19Chile 18


Percentcorrect

North Carolina-USA 60Connecticut-USA 55Massachusetts-USA 55Alberta-CAN 53Indiana-USA 50Florida-USA 49Ontario-CAN 48Minnesota-USA 47Dubai-UAE 46Abu Dhabi-UAE 44Colorado-USA 41Quebec-CAN 39Alabama-USA 35California-USA 33




Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

CO2 concentration & photosynthesis

Andrea is investigating the eff ects of light intensity and carbon dioxide concentration on the rate of photosynthesis.

She measured the rate of photosynthesis at diff erent light intensities for two identical plants. Th e plants were placed in closed containers. One container had an initial carbon dioxide concentration of 0.40%. Th e other container had an initial carbon dioxide concentration of 0.03%.

She plotted her results as shown below.

Rate

of P

hoto

synt

hesi

s (u

nits

)

0.0

0.2

0.4

0.6

0.8

1.0

1.2

1.4

1 2 3 4 5 6

0.40 % Carbon Dioxide

0.03% Carbon Dioxide

Light Intensity (units)

Look at the graph.

A. Does an increase in carbon dioxide concentration aff ect the rate of photosynthesis?

(Check one box.) Yes

No



SCORINGCorrect Response• Yes with an explanation that refers to carbon dioxide being required for (needed for, used during)

photosynthesis. The explanation may or may not include a specific reference to the graph.Examples:Carbon dioxide is required for photosynthesis. The higher the concentration of carbon dioxide the

faster the rate of photosynthesis.For photosynthesis to take place it needs carbon dioxide.• Yes with an explanation that refers only to the graph (either explicitly or implicitly).Examples:One with 0.03 carbon dioxide is lower than the one with 0.4 carbon dioxide.Yes, at light intensity 3, the rate of photosynthesis is 1.2 at 0.40 and 0.3 at 0.03.

Incorrect Response• Incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Singapore 72United States 68Japan 61England-GBR 60Israel 52Hong Kong-CHN 51Korea, Rep. of 47New Zealand 46Australia 45Turkey 45Chinese Taipei-CHN 44Tunisia 44Finland 42Jordan 40Bahrain 40Ukraine 39United Arab Emirates 38Slovenia 37Kazakhstan 36Russian Federation 36Hungary 35International average 35Lithuania 34Saudi Arabia 33Lebanon 32Romania 31Malaysia 31Norway 30Indonesia 29Qatar 28Italy 27Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 27Oman 26Thailand 25Sweden 25Iran, Islamic Rep. of 23Chile 22Morocco 17Georgia 17Macedonia, Rep. of 15Armenia 12Syrian Arab Republic 10Ghana 8


Percentcorrect

Minnesota-USA 77Massachusetts-USA 73Indiana-USA 71Colorado-USA 71Florida-USA 71North Carolina-USA 69Connecticut-USA 69California-USA 65Alabama-USA 58Ontario-CAN 57Alberta-CAN 57Quebec-CAN 51Dubai-UAE 43Abu Dhabi-UAE 37




CO2 concentration & photosynthesis (continued)S042022:

Student Responses

Correct Response:




Look at the graph.



No





1 2 3 4 5 6

Rate

of P

hoto

synt

hesi

s (u

nits

)

0.0

0.2

0.4

0.6

0.8

1.0

1.2

1.4

Incorrect Response:




Look at the graph.



No





1 2 3 4 5 6

Rate

of P

hoto

synt

hesi

s (u

nits

)

0.0

0.2

0.4

0.6

0.8

1.0

1.2

1.4



Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Process of respiration

Which equation summarizes the process of respiration?

A. water + carbon dioxide + energy sugar + oxygen

B. oxygen + sugar carbon dioxide + water + energy

C. carbon dioxide + oxygen + water sugar + energy

D. sugar + carbon dioxide + energy oxygen + water


Correct Response: B



Singapore 66Russian Federation 59Japan 52Hong Kong-CHN 50Kazakhstan 47Slovenia 47Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 47Syrian Arab Republic 45Saudi Arabia 45Turkey 43Armenia 43England-GBR 41Jordan 41Israel 41Chinese Taipei-CHN 40Finland 40Macedonia, Rep. of 40Korea, Rep. of 39Georgia 38Bahrain 38International average 38Oman 38Qatar 37Italy 37Romania 36Ukraine 36United Arab Emirates 35Thailand 35Chile 35Lithuania 35Morocco 34Hungary 33Tunisia 30Sweden 30Lebanon 29New Zealand 28Malaysia 27Ghana 25Australia 25Iran, Islamic Rep. of 25Norway 23Indonesia 22United States 22


Percentcorrect

Dubai-UAE 38Quebec-CAN 36Abu Dhabi-UAE 33Massachusetts-USA 30North Carolina-USA 28Alberta-CAN 27Connecticut-USA 27Minnesota-USA 25Florida-USA 25California-USA 25Indiana-USA 23Alabama-USA 23Ontario-CAN 22Colorado-USA 20




Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Diversity, Adaptation, and Natu-ral Selection

Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Where organisms appeared on Earth

Where did organisms live when they fi rst appeared on Earth?

A. in the water

B. in the air

C. on the land

D. under the ground


Correct Response: A



Italy 86Russian Federation 85Chinese Taipei-CHN 85Korea, Rep. of 84Japan 83Sweden 82Slovenia 82Norway 81Finland 80Lithuania 74Ukraine 71Hungary 67Kazakhstan 63Hong Kong-CHN 61Georgia 61United States 56Armenia 56Iran, Islamic Rep. of 52Chile 51England-GBR 49Australia 47International average 46New Zealand 44Macedonia, Rep. of 43Romania 40Israel 36Thailand 34Singapore 34Malaysia 27Turkey 26United Arab Emirates 23Jordan 21Indonesia 19Saudi Arabia 19Qatar 18Ghana 17Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 17Oman 14Bahrain 14Lebanon 12Morocco 12Syrian Arab Republic 11Tunisia 9


Percentcorrect

Colorado-USA 72Quebec-CAN 71Massachusetts-USA 71Minnesota-USA 66North Carolina-USA 65Connecticut-USA 61Alberta-CAN 59California-USA 59Ontario-CAN 57Indiana-USA 55Florida-USA 53Alabama-USA 48Dubai-UAE 35Abu Dhabi-UAE 19





Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Ecosystems

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Year of highest rabbit population

A population of rabbits and foxes live in a remote area. Th e foxes do not have any predators. Scientists counted the number of rabbits and foxes over a long time period and plotted their results, as shown below.

A. In which year was the population of rabbits at its highest?

Popu

latio

n Si

ze

Year

RabbitsFoxes

1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000

100

200

300

400


SCORINGCorrect Response• 1983 - 1985

Incorrect Response• States the year for foxes: 1988-1990• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Japan 85Finland 78Sweden 78Slovenia 76Russian Federation 74England-GBR 73Norway 72Singapore 71Hungary 71Australia 69United States 69New Zealand 67Lithuania 67Israel 65Italy 64Chinese Taipei-CHN 58Ukraine 56Hong Kong-CHN 54Korea, Rep. of 51International average 47United Arab Emirates 44Lebanon 42Tunisia 41Thailand 41Chile 40Bahrain 40Kazakhstan 37Qatar 36Romania 35Macedonia, Rep. of 33Georgia 31Morocco 31Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 31Saudi Arabia 31Malaysia 30Jordan 30Iran, Islamic Rep. of 29Armenia 27Oman 24Turkey 21Syrian Arab Republic 13Indonesia 8Ghana 4


Percentcorrect

Minnesota-USA 81Quebec-CAN 77Massachusetts-USA 75North Carolina-USA 74Indiana-USA 72Ontario-CAN 71Colorado-USA 70Connecticut-USA 68Alberta-CAN 67Florida-USA 66California-USA 59Alabama-USA 57Dubai-UAE 53Abu Dhabi-UAE 43




Year of highest rabbit population (continued)S042051A:

Student Responses

Correct Response:



Popu

latio

n Si

ze

Year

RabbitsFoxes

1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000

100

200

300

400

Incorrect Response:



Popu

latio

n Si

ze

Year

RabbitsFoxes

1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000

100

200

300

400



Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Ecosystems

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Relation of rabbit-fox populations


B. Describe how the changes in population size of rabbits and foxes are related.

Popu

latio

n Si

ze

Year

RabbitsFoxes

1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000

100

200

300

400


SCORINGCorrect Response• Describes how the changes in population are related by referring to the foxes (predators) eating

the rabbits (prey).Example: As the population of rabbits increased the foxes also increased as they have more rabbits

to eat. • Relates the graph of the fox population to that of the rabbit population without reference to

predator/prey.Example: When the rabbit population increases the fox population increases and when the rabbit

population decreases the fox population decreases.

Incorrect Response• States that foxes eat rabbits without describing how the changes in population size are related.• Gives a general description that relates to both going up and down without mentioning how the

changes in population size are related.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Singapore 68Japan 54England-GBR 54Hong Kong-CHN 51Finland 51Korea, Rep. of 48Israel 46Slovenia 44Australia 43Chinese Taipei-CHN 42Sweden 42United States 36Norway 35Hungary 34Lithuania 31Italy 30New Zealand 30Russian Federation 28United Arab Emirates 28Oman 27International average 27Turkey 27Jordan 26Ukraine 25Thailand 23Iran, Islamic Rep. of 21Qatar 21Bahrain 17Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 17Kazakhstan 17Malaysia 16Syrian Arab Republic 16Chile 13Tunisia 11Armenia 10Romania 10Lebanon 9Indonesia 9Macedonia, Rep. of 7Georgia 6Morocco 4Ghana 2Saudi Arabia 1


Percentcorrect

Minnesota-USA 54Massachusetts-USA 53Colorado-USA 50Alberta-CAN 48Connecticut-USA 48Ontario-CAN 46Quebec-CAN 39North Carolina-USA 39Indiana-USA 36Florida-USA 33Abu Dhabi-UAE 30Dubai-UAE 30California-USA 22Alabama-USA 20




Relation of rabbit-fox populations (continued)S042051B:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Life function of Paramecium

Th e diagram shows a single-celled organism called a Paramecium.

In order to survive, the Paramecium carries out certain life functions, such as taking in nutrients to produce energy.

State one other life function that the Paramecium must carry out in order to survive.


SCORINGCorrect Response• States one life function as noted below.Getting rid of waste (wastes would poison the cell)Reproduction (the species would die out otherwise)Taking in oxygen/respire (needed to produce energy)Responding to stimuli (moving towards food)Digestion (breaking down food substances)

Incorrect Response• Refers to taking in water.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Singapore 49Israel 48Russian Federation 46Hungary 42Japan 41Slovenia 40Ukraine 40Finland 39England-GBR 37Iran, Islamic Rep. of 36Chinese Taipei-CHN 35Italy 33Turkey 32Lithuania 32Sweden 30Korea, Rep. of 28United States 27Armenia 27Macedonia, Rep. of 27Kazakhstan 27Australia 26International average 25New Zealand 24United Arab Emirates 24Norway 24Georgia 24Bahrain 21Jordan 18Hong Kong-CHN 17Syrian Arab Republic 16Romania 16Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 15Thailand 15Chile 15Qatar 15Oman 15Indonesia 13Saudi Arabia 11Malaysia 11Tunisia 10Lebanon 9Ghana 9Morocco 8


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 44Alberta-CAN 36Minnesota-USA 36North Carolina-USA 34Colorado-USA 34Connecticut-USA 33Ontario-CAN 32Quebec-CAN 30Indiana-USA 30Dubai-UAE 29Florida-USA 28Alabama-USA 24Abu Dhabi-UAE 22California-USA 18




Life function of Paramecium (continued)S042261:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:




Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Investigation of green/red peppers

Kayra and Emre are studying plants. Th ey have learned that characteristics such as the height of plants and the color of fruit are inherited.

Th ey are looking at some green and red peppers.

Kayra thinks they are diff erent kinds of peppers, because they are diff erent colors.

Emre thinks that they are the same type of pepper, and red peppers are red because they have been left on the plant longer and have ripened.

Describe how you could set up an investigation to decide whether Kayra or Emre is correct.

red peppersgreen peppers


SCORINGCorrect Response• Refers to eitheri) planting (seeds from) green and red peppers AND observing the color of the fruit ORii) planting (seeds from) green peppers AND observing if the fruit turns red.• Other fully correct

Partially Correct Response• Refers to ONLY planting (seeds from) green/red peppers.Example: You could grow seeds from each pepper.• Other correct




Singapore 44New Zealand 37Slovenia 30Turkey 29Israel 28United States 27Chinese Taipei-CHN 26Hong Kong-CHN 24Sweden 24Chile 22Australia 21Finland 20Lithuania 20Hungary 19Russian Federation 16Bahrain 15International average 14Japan 14Romania 14England-GBR 14Korea, Rep. of 12Qatar 10United Arab Emirates 10Georgia 9Thailand 9Oman 9Italy 9Macedonia, Rep. of 8Saudi Arabia 8Syrian Arab Republic 8Norway 8Tunisia 8Ukraine 8Morocco 6Kazakhstan 6Armenia 6Malaysia 5Jordan 5Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 4Lebanon 4Iran, Islamic Rep. of 2Indonesia 2Ghana 1


Percentcorrect

Alberta-CAN 38Ontario-CAN 38Massachusetts-USA 36Minnesota-USA 34Colorado-USA 34Quebec-CAN 34Indiana-USA 32Connecticut-USA 31Florida-USA 25North Carolina-USA 24California-USA 23Alabama-USA 18Dubai-UAE 14Abu Dhabi-UAE 9




Investigation of green/red peppers (continued)S042297:

Student Responses

Correct Response:


Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Ecosystems

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Importance of removing weeds

A farmer planted a fi eld of corn. Weeds started to grow among the seedlings.

Explain why it is important that he remove the weeds.


SCORINGCorrect Response• Mentions competition for resources (nutrients, water, sunlight).Examples:They compete with other plants for space, water and sunlight. The weeds will compete with the seedlings for food and water.

Incorrect Response• Mentions competition for space and/or weeds reproducing (growing) rapidly.Examples:They would grow very quickly and take over the field.They reproduce too rapidly.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Japan 75Chinese Taipei-CHN 74Korea, Rep. of 65Singapore 59Hungary 53Finland 49Hong Kong-CHN 47Kazakhstan 44Iran, Islamic Rep. of 40Lithuania 37Slovenia 36Russian Federation 35Israel 35Thailand 35United States 35England-GBR 31Sweden 31International average 29Australia 29New Zealand 28Romania 27Tunisia 27Ukraine 25Syrian Arab Republic 25Italy 25Norway 24Jordan 23Malaysia 21Armenia 20Turkey 20Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 20United Arab Emirates 17Macedonia, Rep. of 14Chile 14Georgia 14Qatar 14Oman 12Ghana 12Bahrain 10Indonesia 10Lebanon 7Morocco 5Saudi Arabia 1


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 46Minnesota-USA 45Alberta-CAN 45Colorado-USA 38North Carolina-USA 37Indiana-USA 33Connecticut-USA 31Ontario-CAN 29Florida-USA 29California-USA 27Alabama-USA 27Dubai-UAE 26Quebec-CAN 17Abu Dhabi-UAE 15




Importance of removing weeds (continued)S042298:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

BIOLOGY


isms

Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Conclusion from pulse rate-T graph

John measures his pulse rate before he exercises. It is 70 beats per minute. He exercises for one minute and measures his pulse rate again. He then measures it every minute for several minutes. He draws a graph to show his results.

What can be concluded from his results?

A. His pulse rate increased by 50 beats per minute.

B. His pulse rate took less time to slow down than to increase.

C. His pulse rate aft er 4 minutes was 80 beats per minute.

D. His pulse rate returned to normal in less than 6 minutes.

Time (minutes)

Puls

e Ra

te

(bea

ts/m

inut

e)

140

120

100

80

60

40

20

0 1 2 3 4 5 6

exercise


Correct Response: D



Japan 82Korea, Rep. of 80Finland 80Italy 79Russian Federation 75Singapore 75Sweden 75Israel 74Lithuania 74Norway 73United States 73Slovenia 71England-GBR 69Australia 66Chinese Taipei-CHN 64New Zealand 62Chile 62Romania 61Hong Kong-CHN 60Malaysia 60Turkey 60International average 57Ukraine 56United Arab Emirates 54Iran, Islamic Rep. of 51Georgia 49Tunisia 49Hungary 48Saudi Arabia 46Bahrain 46Lebanon 46Indonesia 46Thailand 45Macedonia, Rep. of 45Kazakhstan 44Qatar 43Jordan 43Armenia 42Morocco 42Oman 42Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 38Syrian Arab Republic 32Ghana 30


Percentcorrect

Minnesota-USA 79Massachusetts-USA 77North Carolina-USA 76Indiana-USA 76Quebec-CAN 76Connecticut-USA 75Alberta-CAN 73Ontario-CAN 71Colorado-USA 70Florida-USA 67California-USA 64Alabama-USA 60Dubai-UAE 57Abu Dhabi-UAE 55




Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Ecosystems

Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Water travels through a plant

Susie has a potted plant. She sets up an experiment that shows that water travels through a plant into the air.

Which experiment would show this?

A. Put water in a container under the pot; water will disappear from the container.

B. Cover one of the stems of the plant with a plastic bag and water the plant; drops of water will be seen in the bag.

C. Place a cut stem from the plant in a plastic bag; water will be seen in the bag.

D. Place a cut stem from the plant in a glass of colored water; the plant’s leaves will change color.


Correct Response: B



Korea, Rep. of 76Tunisia 74Japan 62Slovenia 61Turkey 58Finland 57Russian Federation 56Israel 56Singapore 55Hungary 53Chinese Taipei-CHN 52United States 51Sweden 50Italy 49Australia 49United Arab Emirates 48Thailand 48Jordan 48Morocco 47Saudi Arabia 47International average 47New Zealand 46Hong Kong-CHN 46Lithuania 44Georgia 44England-GBR 44Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 42Ukraine 42Romania 42Syrian Arab Republic 42Oman 41Kazakhstan 40Macedonia, Rep. of 40Bahrain 38Qatar 37Norway 36Lebanon 35Iran, Islamic Rep. of 35Armenia 35Indonesia 34Chile 33Ghana 31Malaysia 29


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 57Minnesota-USA 57North Carolina-USA 57Colorado-USA 56Alberta-CAN 56Florida-USA 56Connecticut-USA 55Abu Dhabi-UAE 52Dubai-UAE 49Ontario-CAN 46Indiana-USA 45California-USA 45Alabama-USA 43Quebec-CAN 38




Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Human Health

Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Foods diabetics should avoid

John has diabetes.

Which of the following should he be careful about eating or drinking?

A. beef

B. eggs

C. milk

D. fruit juice


Correct Response: D



Chinese Taipei-CHN 81Sweden 81Russian Federation 80Slovenia 78Israel 78Korea, Rep. of 76Turkey 76Hong Kong-CHN 76Japan 75Hungary 73Finland 70Lithuania 67Ukraine 67Iran, Islamic Rep. of 65Norway 64New Zealand 64Saudi Arabia 64Bahrain 63Australia 63Jordan 62Tunisia 62United States 62England-GBR 62International average 61Kazakhstan 60Singapore 59Armenia 59Syrian Arab Republic 58Oman 57United Arab Emirates 57Italy 57Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 57Georgia 56Morocco 53Qatar 50Romania 48Thailand 47Chile 44Macedonia, Rep. of 41Ghana 41Lebanon 38Indonesia 36Malaysia 26


Percentcorrect

Alberta-CAN 75Quebec-CAN 74Ontario-CAN 71North Carolina-USA 71Minnesota-USA 71Massachusetts-USA 70Connecticut-USA 69Colorado-USA 65Indiana-USA 61Abu Dhabi-UAE 61Alabama-USA 60California-USA 58Florida-USA 58Dubai-UAE 56




Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Diversity, Adaptation, and Natu-ral Selection

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Layers of rock with fossils

Th e diagram below shows geological layers of rock containing fossils. Layer F is the uppermost layer, while Layer A is the deepest layer.

Which statement about the age of the fossils is most likely correct?

A. Fossils in Layer A are the oldest, because they are located in the deepest layer.

B. Fossils in Layer C are the youngest, because they look similar to existing organisms.

C. Fossils in Layer D are older than fossils in Layer A, because the fossils in Layer D are bigger.

D. Fossils in Layer E are the same age as those in Layer F because they look the same.

A

B

C

D

E

F


Correct Response: A



Chinese Taipei-CHN 89Japan 85Korea, Rep. of 85United States 84England-GBR 84Hong Kong-CHN 84Singapore 83Israel 79Australia 79Slovenia 78New Zealand 76Finland 75Jordan 74Italy 73Lithuania 73Iran, Islamic Rep. of 70Sweden 69Russian Federation 69Hungary 69United Arab Emirates 68Norway 67Chile 65Ukraine 65International average 64Romania 61Turkey 59Macedonia, Rep. of 58Kazakhstan 57Lebanon 55Bahrain 54Oman 54Malaysia 53Qatar 52Georgia 51Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 50Syrian Arab Republic 50Morocco 49Saudi Arabia 49Tunisia 47Indonesia 43Armenia 38Thailand 37Ghana 36


Percentcorrect

Minnesota-USA 92Massachusetts-USA 90North Carolina-USA 90Indiana-USA 86Florida-USA 86Alberta-CAN 83Colorado-USA 83Connecticut-USA 81Alabama-USA 80Quebec-CAN 80California-USA 79Ontario-CAN 77Dubai-UAE 69Abu Dhabi-UAE 65




Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic

Ecosystems

Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Mayor wants to plant trees

Th e amount of carbon dioxide in the air is increasing in a large city due to the growing number of vehicles. Th e mayor wants to plant more trees.

A. Do you agree with the mayor’s suggestion?

(Check one box.)

Yes

No



SCORINGCorrect Response• Yes with an explanation that trees absorb carbon dioxide (during photosynthesis).Examples:Yes – When trees photosynthesize they take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen.Yes – Trees take in carbon dioxide.• No with a valid explanation related to reducing carbon dioxide emission.Examples:No–Themayorshouldsuggestwaystocuttheamountofcarbondioxidebygettingpeopletowalk

or cycle.No–Idisagreewiththemayor,asplantingmoretreeswon’tsolvetheproblemthesamewayas

lessening the amount of cars on the road.

Incorrect Response• Incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task), including the following

response:Explanation relates to oxygen only.



Hong Kong-CHN 76Singapore 73Chinese Taipei-CHN 70Kazakhstan 69Japan 67Korea, Rep. of 64Russian Federation 54Bahrain 54Jordan 52Thailand 51England-GBR 51Tunisia 50Romania 49United Arab Emirates 48Israel 48Oman 48Syrian Arab Republic 47New Zealand 47Iran, Islamic Rep. of 46International average 46Australia 45Malaysia 45Slovenia 43Sweden 43Indonesia 42Qatar 42Saudi Arabia 41Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 40Turkey 40Italy 39Hungary 39United States 39Finland 38Norway 38Georgia 36Ukraine 36Lebanon 35Macedonia, Rep. of 35Armenia 33Lithuania 29Morocco 27Chile 26Ghana 24


Percentcorrect

Dubai-UAE 56Massachusetts-USA 55Alberta-CAN 54Abu Dhabi-UAE 50Ontario-CAN 50Minnesota-USA 46Colorado-USA 45Quebec-CAN 45Florida-USA 44Indiana-USA 41North Carolina-USA 39Connecticut-USA 39California-USA 29Alabama-USA 25




Mayor wants to plant trees (continued)S052091:

Student Responses

Correct Response:Th e amount of carbon dioxide in the air is increasing in a large city due to the growing number of vehicles. Th e mayor wants to plant more trees.


(Check one box.)

Yes

No


Incorrect Response:Th e amount of carbon dioxide in the air is increasing in a large city due to the growing number of vehicles. Th e mayor wants to plant more trees.


(Check one box.)

Yes

No




Content Domain

BIOLOGY

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Applying

Genetic makeup of twins

Twins are born. One is a boy and one is a girl.

Which statement is correct about their genetic makeup?

A. The boy and the girl inherit genetic material from the father only.

B. The boy and girl inherit genetic material from the mother only.

C. The boy and girl inherit genetic material from both parents.

D. The boy inherits genetic material from the father only and the girl inherits it from the mother only.


Correct Response: C



Japan 95Finland 94Korea, Rep. of 93Singapore 92Slovenia 91Jordan 91United States 90Israel 90Chinese Taipei-CHN 89England-GBR 88Hong Kong-CHN 88Russian Federation 88Italy 88Hungary 87Armenia 87Tunisia 87Ukraine 86United Arab Emirates 86Australia 86Bahrain 85Saudi Arabia 85New Zealand 85Lithuania 84Turkey 84Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 84International average 83Sweden 83Romania 83Norway 82Qatar 82Syrian Arab Republic 81Oman 81Morocco 80Chile 80Kazakhstan 79Thailand 77Georgia 76Lebanon 76Iran, Islamic Rep. of 75Indonesia 70Ghana 69Malaysia 69Macedonia, Rep. of 63


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 95Minnesota-USA 94Indiana-USA 92North Carolina-USA 91Connecticut-USA 89Alberta-CAN 89Colorado-USA 89Alabama-USA 88Florida-USA 87Quebec-CAN 87Ontario-CAN 87California-USA 86Abu Dhabi-UAE 86Dubai-UAE 86




Content Domain

CHEMISTRY

Main Topic

Chemical Change

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Sodium bicarbonate in vinegar

As shown in the diagram, the balloon infl ates when the sodium bicarbonate in the balloon is mixed with the vinegar.

What causes this to happen?

Balloon

Sodiumbicarbonate

Vinegar

Before Mixing After Mixing


SCORINGCorrect Response• States that carbon dioxide is given off (as a result of chemical reaction).Example: Chemical reaction expels carbon dioxide which blows the balloon up.• States that a gas is given off (as a result of chemical reaction). [Does NOT explicitly mention

carbon dioxide.]Example: When they mix the two chemicals, a gas is produced and it goes up into the balloon.• States that a chemical reaction occurs. [Does NOT explicitly mention gas production.]Example: Vinegar has a reaction when it is mixed with sodium bicarbonate.• Other correct

Incorrect Response• Refers only to gas (air) rising into the balloon, or similar. [No mention of chemical reaction or gas

production.]• Refers to production of air, helium or some other incorrect gas.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Chinese Taipei-CHN 64Singapore 62Kazakhstan 61England-GBR 58Russian Federation 57Australia 55Japan 52New Zealand 52United States 51Hong Kong-CHN 51Slovenia 51Bahrain 50Saudi Arabia 49United Arab Emirates 45Hungary 45Korea, Rep. of 42Italy 41Finland 39Jordan 39Norway 39International average 38Israel 38Ukraine 38Lithuania 37Sweden 37Romania 36Iran, Islamic Rep. of 34Chile 34Thailand 33Armenia 32Syrian Arab Republic 31Lebanon 31Qatar 30Turkey 29Macedonia, Rep. of 26Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 26Indonesia 25Malaysia 23Oman 22Morocco 14Tunisia 14Georgia 13Ghana 6


Percentcorrect

Alberta-CAN 60Massachusetts-USA 60Colorado-USA 57Florida-USA 56California-USA 52North Carolina-USA 51Minnesota-USA 50Quebec-CAN 50Dubai-UAE 49Indiana-USA 49Connecticut-USA 44Abu Dhabi-UAE 44Ontario-CAN 41Alabama-USA 36




Sodium bicarbonate in vinegar (continued)S032056:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

CHEMISTRY

Main Topic

Properties of Matter

Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Solubility/temperature graphs

Bob did an experiment to investigate the eff ect of temperature on the solubility of sugar in water by measuring the amount of sugar that would dissolve in 1 liter of water at diff erent temperatures. He then plotted his results.

Which of the following is likely to be the graph showing Bob’s results?

A. B.

C. D.

Dis

solv

ed S

ugar

(g

ram

s)

Temperature (ºC)

Dis

solv

ed S

ugar

(g

ram

s)

Temperature (ºC)

Dis

solv

ed S

ugar

(g

ram

s)

Temperature (ºC)

Dis

solv

ed S

ugar

(g

ram

s)

Temperature (ºC)


Correct Response: C



Korea, Rep. of 82Japan 77Chinese Taipei-CHN 76Singapore 66Finland 57Slovenia 57England-GBR 57Russian Federation 56Australia 55Hong Kong-CHN 54Malaysia 54United States 54Israel 54New Zealand 54Hungary 52Turkey 52Lithuania 51Bahrain 48Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 45International average 45Jordan 44Oman 44Ukraine 43United Arab Emirates 42Norway 41Sweden 40Qatar 40Lebanon 40Tunisia 39Kazakhstan 39Italy 36Thailand 36Chile 34Saudi Arabia 34Morocco 29Romania 28Georgia 26Macedonia, Rep. of 26Armenia 26Iran, Islamic Rep. of 25Syrian Arab Republic 21Indonesia 21Ghana 18


Percentcorrect

Alberta-CAN 65Massachusetts-USA 61California-USA 59Colorado-USA 58Indiana-USA 58Connecticut-USA 58Minnesota-USA 57North Carolina-USA 55Florida-USA 54Alabama-USA 48Ontario-CAN 47Dubai-UAE 47Abu Dhabi-UAE 43Quebec-CAN 42




Content Domain

CHEMISTRY

Main Topic

Classification and Composition of Matter

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Diagram of water molecules

In the diagrams below, hydrogen atoms are represented by white circles, and oxygen atoms are represented by black circles.

Which of the diagrams best represents water?

A. B. C. D.


Correct Response: C



Finland 83Russian Federation 79Slovenia 77Japan 73Sweden 72Chinese Taipei-CHN 71Lithuania 65Hungary 65Singapore 62Turkey 61Ukraine 57United States 55Iran, Islamic Rep. of 54Israel 50Italy 48Norway 47Kazakhstan 47International average 46Korea, Rep. of 45Bahrain 44Australia 43Malaysia 43New Zealand 41Armenia 40Morocco 40England-GBR 39Romania 39Syrian Arab Republic 39Lebanon 39Chile 38Saudi Arabia 37Macedonia, Rep. of 36United Arab Emirates 35Qatar 35Jordan 32Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 30Georgia 28Hong Kong-CHN 25Oman 23Thailand 19Indonesia 18Tunisia 17Ghana 16


Percentcorrect

North Carolina-USA 71Massachusetts-USA 64California-USA 59Indiana-USA 56Colorado-USA 54Florida-USA 52Minnesota-USA 52Connecticut-USA 50Alabama-USA 46Quebec-CAN 45Dubai-UAE 38Abu Dhabi-UAE 37Alberta-CAN 33Ontario-CAN 28




Content Domain

CHEMISTRY

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Identify if substance is metal

David is given a sample of an unknown solid substance. He wants to know if the substance is a metal. Write down one property he can observe or measure and describe how this property could be used to help identify whether the substance is a metal.


SCORINGCorrect Response• Response based on a characteristic property of common metals that can be measured (e.g.,

conductor of heat, conductor of electricity, thermal expansion, density, magnetic properties, melting point).

• Response based on physical appearance or form (e.g., shiny appearance, hardness, malleability/ductility).

• Response based on chemical reactivity of metals (e.g., tendency to undergo oxidation, reaction with acid).

• Other correct

Incorrect Response• Refers to a magnetic test that is incorrect; no procedure given or indicates that all metals are

attracted to magnets or that NON-attraction indicates a non-metal.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Japan 72Slovenia 69Singapore 64England-GBR 61Israel 58Chinese Taipei-CHN 56Hong Kong-CHN 52Kazakhstan 49United States 48Russian Federation 48Hungary 46Sweden 45Jordan 45Finland 44Lithuania 42New Zealand 41Ukraine 41Iran, Islamic Rep. of 40Australia 38International average 35Norway 34Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 32Saudi Arabia 31Armenia 31Korea, Rep. of 31Bahrain 29Turkey 29Qatar 28United Arab Emirates 24Italy 24Ghana 23Romania 22Macedonia, Rep. of 22Lebanon 21Thailand 20Malaysia 18Syrian Arab Republic 17Georgia 16Tunisia 15Oman 15Chile 13Indonesia 10Morocco 7


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 65North Carolina-USA 56Minnesota-USA 50Indiana-USA 49Connecticut-USA 47Colorado-USA 47California-USA 45Alberta-CAN 42Dubai-UAE 41Florida-USA 41Quebec-CAN 39Ontario-CAN 35Alabama-USA 35Abu Dhabi-UAE 19




Identify if substance is metal (continued)S032570:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

CHEMISTRY

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Applying

Diagram for structure of matter

Which of these diagrams best represents the structure of matter, starting with the more complex particles at the top and ending with the more fundamental particles at the bottom?

A. B.

C. D.

Atoms

Molecules

Neutrons ElectronsProtons

Molecules

Atoms

Neutrons ElectronsProtons

Protons

Electrons

Molecules NeutronsAtoms

Electrons

Neutrons

Atoms ProtonsMolecules


Correct Response: B



Slovenia 65Singapore 62Russian Federation 62Israel 52Finland 51Lithuania 51Italy 51Kazakhstan 51Ukraine 51Hungary 49Iran, Islamic Rep. of 48United States 46Lebanon 46Armenia 46Chile 45Macedonia, Rep. of 44Turkey 43Chinese Taipei-CHN 41Romania 41International average 41Sweden 39Norway 39New Zealand 39Tunisia 39Jordan 39Thailand 38United Arab Emirates 37Oman 36Georgia 36Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 35Australia 34Korea, Rep. of 34England-GBR 33Bahrain 32Malaysia 32Syrian Arab Republic 32Saudi Arabia 31Morocco 31Qatar 28Japan 27Indonesia 25Hong Kong-CHN 24Ghana 19


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 51Connecticut-USA 46California-USA 46North Carolina-USA 45Quebec-CAN 44Indiana-USA 43Florida-USA 43Colorado-USA 42Dubai-UAE 39Abu Dhabi-UAE 38Minnesota-USA 37Ontario-CAN 33Alabama-USA 32Alberta-CAN 30




Content Domain

CHEMISTRY

Main Topic

Chemical Change

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Energy released during a reaction

Write down one thing you might observe that shows that energy has been released during a chemical reaction.


SCORINGCorrect Response• Refers to heat or temperature increase (or similar).• Refers to explosion or hearing sound (or similar).• Refers to light production or seeing flames (or similar).• Other correctExample: If the chemical reaction causes something to move, like with a rocket blast.

Incorrect Response• Refers only to steam, smoke, bubbling, gas production (or similar). [No explicit reference to heat.]• Refers only to other evidence of change in materials that does not necessarily indicate that energy

has been released (e.g., smell, color change).• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Finland 49Slovenia 48Chinese Taipei-CHN 43Singapore 30Kazakhstan 28New Zealand 27Ukraine 27Japan 26Iran, Islamic Rep. of 24Australia 24Hong Kong-CHN 23United States 22Lithuania 22United Arab Emirates 22Russian Federation 22Israel 20England-GBR 19Syrian Arab Republic 18International average 18Sweden 17Bahrain 16Hungary 15Qatar 15Norway 14Saudi Arabia 14Jordan 12Armenia 12Lebanon 12Korea, Rep. of 12Chile 11Romania 11Macedonia, Rep. of 10Oman 10Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 10Turkey 9Malaysia 8Italy 8Morocco 7Ghana 6Tunisia 6Thailand 6Georgia 4Indonesia 4


Percentcorrect

Alberta-CAN 32Minnesota-USA 25North Carolina-USA 25Ontario-CAN 25Indiana-USA 24Quebec-CAN 24Abu Dhabi-UAE 23Massachusetts-USA 23Connecticut-USA 22Florida-USA 21Dubai-UAE 21California-USA 20Colorado-USA 17Alabama-USA 14




Energy released during a reaction (continued)S032679:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

CHEMISTRY

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Applying

Which rod causes the bulb to light

Rods made of diff erent materials are connected between points P and Q in the circuit diagram shown below.

Which rod would cause the bulb to light?

A. copper rod

B. wood rod

C. glass rod

D. plastic rod

battery

Q

P

–+


Correct Response: A



Russian Federation 97Hong Kong-CHN 96Lithuania 96Singapore 96Israel 95Slovenia 95England-GBR 95Finland 94Chinese Taipei-CHN 94Japan 94Chile 94Thailand 93Sweden 93Indonesia 92New Zealand 92Turkey 92Iran, Islamic Rep. of 91Italy 91Morocco 91United States 90Australia 89Tunisia 88Korea, Rep. of 88Jordan 88International average 88Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 87Norway 87Romania 87Syrian Arab Republic 87Hungary 87Ukraine 86United Arab Emirates 84Malaysia 84Bahrain 83Macedonia, Rep. of 83Qatar 80Saudi Arabia 80Kazakhstan 80Georgia 80Armenia 79Lebanon 78Oman 73Ghana 69


Percentcorrect

Alberta-CAN 95Indiana-USA 95Minnesota-USA 93Massachusetts-USA 93North Carolina-USA 93Connecticut-USA 92Florida-USA 90Ontario-CAN 90Quebec-CAN 90Colorado-USA 90Dubai-UAE 90Alabama-USA 87California-USA 85Abu Dhabi-UAE 83




Content Domain

CHEMISTRY

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Formula for carbon dioxide

What is the chemical formula for carbon dioxide?

A. CO

B. CO2

C. C

D. O2


Correct Response: B



Japan 99Chinese Taipei-CHN 98Lebanon 97Slovenia 96Romania 94Hungary 93England-GBR 92Russian Federation 92Armenia 91Singapore 91Korea, Rep. of 90Italy 90Hong Kong-CHN 89Indonesia 89Ukraine 88Kazakhstan 88Macedonia, Rep. of 88Qatar 87Syrian Arab Republic 87Israel 86Oman 86Jordan 86United States 86Lithuania 85International average 85Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 85Australia 84Norway 84New Zealand 84Turkey 83United Arab Emirates 83Morocco 82Sweden 81Finland 81Chile 80Ghana 79Bahrain 79Saudi Arabia 75Tunisia 73Thailand 73Georgia 68Malaysia 67Iran, Islamic Rep. of 59


Percentcorrect

Alberta-CAN 93Minnesota-USA 93Colorado-USA 90Dubai-UAE 90Florida-USA 89Massachusetts-USA 89North Carolina-USA 88Connecticut-USA 87Ontario-CAN 85Abu Dhabi-UAE 84Indiana-USA 84Quebec-CAN 84Alabama-USA 81California-USA 79




Content Domain

CHEMISTRY

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Number of atoms in H2SO4 molecule

Complete the table below to show the number of atoms of each element in a molecule of sulfuric acid (H2SO4).

Element Number of Atoms

Hydrogen

Sulfur

Oxygen


SCORINGCorrect Response• Completes the table as shown below:


Hydrogen 2

Sulfur 1

Oxygen 4



Singapore 69Russian Federation 64Slovenia 58Japan 53Ukraine 50Lebanon 49United States 48Kazakhstan 47Macedonia, Rep. of 47Lithuania 47Armenia 46Chinese Taipei-CHN 44Romania 43England-GBR 41Iran, Islamic Rep. of 38Finland 37Italy 36Israel 34International average 33Oman 32United Arab Emirates 32Hungary 31Turkey 31New Zealand 31Sweden 30Chile 30Australia 27Norway 27Korea, Rep. of 26Qatar 25Jordan 24Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 23Syrian Arab Republic 23Thailand 21Hong Kong-CHN 21Bahrain 21Morocco 19Malaysia 18Georgia 11Saudi Arabia 10Ghana 8Indonesia 7Tunisia 2



Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 68California-USA 57North Carolina-USA 53Colorado-USA 53Indiana-USA 49Minnesota-USA 41Quebec-CAN 41Connecticut-USA 40Dubai-UAE 38Alabama-USA 38Florida-USA 34Abu Dhabi-UAE 33Alberta-CAN 12Ontario-CAN 12




Number of atoms in H2SO4 molecule (continued)S042076:

Student Responses

Correct Response:Complete the table below to show the number of atoms of each element in a molecule of sulfuric acid (H2SO4).


Hydrogen

Sulfur

Oxygen

Incorrect Response:Complete the table below to show the number of atoms of each element in a molecule of sulfuric acid (H2SO4).


Hydrogen

Sulfur

Oxygen



Content Domain

CHEMISTRY

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Ammonia solution mixed in vinegar

Robert put two drops of an indicator into vinegar, and the color turned red. He then added drops of ammonia solution until the color disappeared.

What process occurred?

A. rusting

B. melting

C. evaporation

D. neutralization


Correct Response: D



Chinese Taipei-CHN 91Finland 90Singapore 89Hong Kong-CHN 88Russian Federation 87Ukraine 81Norway 80England-GBR 79Iran, Islamic Rep. of 77Hungary 77United States 74Jordan 73Japan 73Australia 72Sweden 70Turkey 69Armenia 68Italy 68New Zealand 68United Arab Emirates 67International average 67Slovenia 65Lithuania 65Bahrain 65Korea, Rep. of 63Malaysia 63Romania 62Chile 62Qatar 61Kazakhstan 61Israel 60Oman 59Syrian Arab Republic 58Indonesia 58Tunisia 58Thailand 57Saudi Arabia 54Georgia 54Morocco 51Lebanon 48Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 48Macedonia, Rep. of 47Ghana 34


Percentcorrect

North Carolina-USA 81Minnesota-USA 79Massachusetts-USA 78Indiana-USA 78Alberta-CAN 75Florida-USA 74Connecticut-USA 72California-USA 72Colorado-USA 71Dubai-UAE 71Abu Dhabi-UAE 70Ontario-CAN 69Alabama-USA 63Quebec-CAN 54




Content Domain

CHEMISTRY

Main Topic

Chemical Change

Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Observations for reaction

Ahmet put some powder into a test tube. He then added liquid to the powder and shook the test tube. A chemical reaction took place.

Describe two things he might observe as the chemical reaction took place.

1.

2.


SCORINGCorrect Response• Describes two different observations as listed below.Appearance of a new color (color change)Seeing gas production (bubbling, foaming)Hearing a noise (fizzing)Smelling a gasChanging temperature (increase or decrease) A precipitate formingLight being emittedAn explosion taking place

Partially Correct Response• Describes one observation as listed above.

Incorrect Response• Incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task).



England-GBR 59New Zealand 50United States 46Chinese Taipei-CHN 44Russian Federation 44Singapore 44Australia 42United Arab Emirates 37Finland 36Hong Kong-CHN 35Norway 32Japan 30Saudi Arabia 30Syrian Arab Republic 30Slovenia 30Jordan 28Ukraine 27International average 24Bahrain 23Israel 23Korea, Rep. of 23Lebanon 22Qatar 22Lithuania 21Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 21Sweden 18Tunisia 18Kazakhstan 17Romania 17Oman 17Iran, Islamic Rep. of 17Hungary 15Armenia 14Malaysia 10Italy 9Turkey 8Thailand 8Chile 7Indonesia 6Macedonia, Rep. of 5Morocco 4Georgia 3Ghana 1


Percentcorrect

Minnesota-USA 53Massachusetts-USA 52Indiana-USA 51Colorado-USA 51North Carolina-USA 47Quebec-CAN 44California-USA 44Florida-USA 42Dubai-UAE 39Abu Dhabi-UAE 39Alabama-USA 38Connecticut-USA 37Alberta-CAN 37Ontario-CAN 32




Observations for reaction (continued)S042100:

Student Responses

Correct Response:Ahmet put some powder into a test tube. He then added liquid to the powder and shook the test tube. A chemical reaction took place.


1.

2.

Partially Correct Response:Ahmet put some powder into a test tube. He then added liquid to the powder and shook the test tube. A chemical reaction took place.


1.

2.

Incorrect Response:Ahmet put some powder into a test tube. He then added liquid to the powder and shook the test tube. A chemical reaction took place.


1.

2.



Content Domain

CHEMISTRY

Main Topic

Chemical Change

Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Process in which energy absorbed

During which chemical process is energy absorbed?

A. iron nails rusting

B. candles burning

C. vegetables rotting

D. plants photosynthesizing


Correct Response: D



Hong Kong-CHN 83Korea, Rep. of 79Chile 77England-GBR 75Chinese Taipei-CHN 75United States 74Australia 71New Zealand 70Singapore 70Sweden 69Italy 67Israel 65Finland 62United Arab Emirates 62Japan 61Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 60Jordan 60Syrian Arab Republic 60Armenia 59Thailand 59Hungary 59Ukraine 58International average 58Russian Federation 57Turkey 56Bahrain 56Oman 55Lithuania 54Qatar 52Norway 51Tunisia 51Romania 51Saudi Arabia 49Macedonia, Rep. of 48Georgia 48Kazakhstan 46Morocco 45Ghana 45Slovenia 43Malaysia 42Indonesia 42Iran, Islamic Rep. of 41Lebanon 40


Percentcorrect

Minnesota-USA 78Indiana-USA 78Massachusetts-USA 77Alberta-CAN 76Ontario-CAN 76North Carolina-USA 74Florida-USA 73Connecticut-USA 70California-USA 68Colorado-USA 67Alabama-USA 66Dubai-UAE 65Quebec-CAN 65Abu Dhabi-UAE 61




Content Domain

CHEMISTRY

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Applying

Classify element/compound/mixture

The table below shows some elements, compounds, and mixtures.

Classify them by putting an X in the appropriate column beside each one.

Element Compound MixtureAirSugarSaltGoldSea waterHelium


SCORINGCorrect Response• Classifies all 6 correctly.

Element Compound MixtureAir XSugar X Salt X Gold X Sea Water XHelium X

Partially Correct Response• Classifies 4 or 5 correctly.

Incorrect Response• Classifies 2 or 3 correctly.• Classifies 1 correctly.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Chinese Taipei-CHN 33Singapore 29Slovenia 28Russian Federation 27Kazakhstan 25Israel 18Hungary 17Qatar 17Finland 16Macedonia, Rep. of 15Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 15England-GBR 15Ukraine 15Turkey 13United Arab Emirates 12International average 11New Zealand 11Lithuania 11United States 10Ghana 10Japan 10Lebanon 10Romania 9Bahrain 9Korea, Rep. of 9Australia 8Hong Kong-CHN 8Oman 7Malaysia 7Iran, Islamic Rep. of 6Sweden 6Norway 6Chile 6Thailand 6Jordan 5Italy 3Georgia 3Morocco 3Syrian Arab Republic 3Saudi Arabia 3Tunisia 2Indonesia 2Armenia 1


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 20Dubai-UAE 16North Carolina-USA 12Colorado-USA 12California-USA 11Abu Dhabi-UAE 11Florida-USA 11Indiana-USA 10Minnesota-USA 10Connecticut-USA 9Alberta-CAN 5Alabama-USA 5Quebec-CAN 5Ontario-CAN 3




Classify element/compount/mixture (continued)S042305:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Th e table below shows some elements, compounds, and mixtures.



Incorrect Response:

Th e table below shows some elements, compounds, and mixtures.





Content Domain

CHEMISTRY

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Definition of a compound

Which of the following defi nes a compound?

A. diff erent substances mixed together

B. atoms and molecules mixed together

C. atoms of diff erent elements combined together

D. atoms of the same element combined together


Correct Response: C



Singapore 66Chinese Taipei-CHN 65Russian Federation 59Israel 56Japan 55Ukraine 54Turkey 53Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 53Bahrain 52Hungary 50England-GBR 49United Arab Emirates 49Finland 48Hong Kong-CHN 48New Zealand 48Jordan 47United States 46Slovenia 46Korea, Rep. of 45Saudi Arabia 45Oman 42International average 42Qatar 41Australia 39Sweden 38Syrian Arab Republic 37Chile 37Morocco 37Norway 36Italy 36Lebanon 35Ghana 34Malaysia 33Iran, Islamic Rep. of 32Romania 31Armenia 30Thailand 27Tunisia 25Kazakhstan 22Macedonia, Rep. of 21Georgia 20Indonesia 18Lithuania —


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 58Florida-USA 51Dubai-UAE 51North Carolina-USA 50California-USA 48Abu Dhabi-UAE 48Colorado-USA 46Indiana-USA 46Connecticut-USA 45Minnesota-USA 45Alabama-USA 45Quebec-CAN 34Ontario-CAN 34Alberta-CAN 30


— Not applicable



Content Domain

CHEMISTRY

Main Topic

Chemical Change

Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Fire put out by blanket

Why can a small fire be put out by placing a heavy blanket over it?

A. This lowers the temperature.

B. This make the flames smaller.

This absorbs the burning substance.

This keeps oxygen from reaching the fire.

C.

D.


Correct Response: D



Finland 98Korea, Rep. of 97Slovenia 96Chinese Taipei-CHN 95Sweden 94Norway 94Hong Kong-CHN 93Russian Federation 93Hungary 92Japan 91Lithuania 90Ukraine 90Israel 89Australia 89New Zealand 88Italy 88England-GBR 88Iran, Islamic Rep. of 87Singapore 87United States 85Armenia 82Chile 82Romania 80Kazakhstan 78International average 78Jordan 78Syrian Arab Republic 75Tunisia 75Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 73Saudi Arabia 72Bahrain 69Turkey 69Georgia 69Malaysia 67United Arab Emirates 66Qatar 66Lebanon 61Oman 58Macedonia, Rep. of 56Thailand 55Morocco 49Ghana 48Indonesia 32


Percentcorrect

Alberta-CAN 94Quebec-CAN 94Minnesota-USA 90Ontario-CAN 89Massachusetts-USA 89Indiana-USA 88Colorado-USA 87Connecticut-USA 86North Carolina-USA 83Florida-USA 82Alabama-USA 82California-USA 79Dubai-UAE 73Abu Dhabi-UAE 65




Content Domain

CHEMISTRY

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

List two substances that are metal

Some physical properties of fi ve diff erent substances (A, B, C, D, and E) are outlined in the table below. Two of the substances are metal.

Substance A

Substance B

Substance C

Substance D

Substance E

Physical state at room temperature (20°C)

solid solid liquid liquid gas

Appearance/color shiny grey white silver colorless colorless

Conducts electricity yes no yes yes no

List the two substances (A, B, C, D, or E) that are metal.

1.

2.


SCORINGCorrect Response• Lists substances A and C.

Incorrect Response• Lists substance A with an incorrect or no other substance listed.• Lists substance C with an incorrect or no other substance listed.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task), including the

following response:1. Shiny grey2. Silver



Japan 76Singapore 75Chinese Taipei-CHN 71Hong Kong-CHN 67Israel 65Slovenia 64Korea, Rep. of 61Hungary 61England-GBR 60Sweden 58Finland 58United States 57Australia 57New Zealand 55Italy 55Turkey 54Russian Federation 53Ukraine 46Kazakhstan 45Lithuania 45Norway 44International average 44Lebanon 40Thailand 40Iran, Islamic Rep. of 39Chile 39United Arab Emirates 37Qatar 34Romania 33Jordan 33Malaysia 32Bahrain 31Macedonia, Rep. of 28Tunisia 28Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 27Oman 26Saudi Arabia 26Armenia 25Morocco 23Syrian Arab Republic 21Indonesia 18Ghana 17Georgia 15


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 64Colorado-USA 62Connecticut-USA 61North Carolina-USA 59Florida-USA 59Alberta-CAN 58Ontario-CAN 58Indiana-USA 56Minnesota-USA 55Quebec-CAN 55California-USA 54Alabama-USA 54Dubai-UAE 53Abu Dhabi-UAE 33




List two substances that are metal (continued)S052136:

Student Responses

Correct Response:


Substance A

Substance B

Substance C

Substance D

Substance E






1.

2.

Incorrect Response:


Substance A

Substance B

Substance C

Substance D

Substance E






1.

2.



Content Domain

CHEMISTRY

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Applying

Atoms in a crushed can

A car tire runs over a can and crushes it completely.

Which statement is true for the atoms in the structure of the can?

A. The atoms are broken.

B. The atoms are flattened.

C. The atoms remain the same.

D. The atoms are changed into different atoms.


Correct Response: C



Israel 66Korea, Rep. of 65Chinese Taipei-CHN 65Singapore 61Sweden 58Finland 56Russian Federation 55United States 53Japan 49Hungary 47Lithuania 47Iran, Islamic Rep. of 46Norway 45Armenia 43Slovenia 43Turkey 41Hong Kong-CHN 41England-GBR 41New Zealand 41Kazakhstan 40Chile 38Australia 38Romania 37Ukraine 37International average 37Macedonia, Rep. of 36Lebanon 32Italy 30Thailand 28Georgia 27United Arab Emirates 27Bahrain 27Syrian Arab Republic 24Ghana 23Saudi Arabia 21Jordan 20Morocco 20Qatar 20Oman 20Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 19Malaysia 15Indonesia 11Tunisia 9


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 64Indiana-USA 59Florida-USA 59Minnesota-USA 56Quebec-CAN 54Colorado-USA 54California-USA 52North Carolina-USA 51Connecticut-USA 49Alberta-CAN 45Ontario-CAN 44Alabama-USA 42Dubai-UAE 35Abu Dhabi-UAE 26




Content Domain

CHEMISTRY

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Water splitting rock

Scientists think that the rocks in the picture were once a single rock.

Which property of water had the most eff ect on splitting the rockinto two pieces?

A. Water expanding when it freezes.

B. Water boiling at 100°C.

C. Water having a density less than rock.

D. Water dissolving many substances.


Correct Response: A



Korea, Rep. of 77Finland 74England-GBR 69Hungary 68Iran, Islamic Rep. of 67Lithuania 65Sweden 63Norway 61United States 58Singapore 56Macedonia, Rep. of 50Slovenia 50Russian Federation 50Italy 49Ukraine 43Romania 42Australia 42International average 38New Zealand 38Syrian Arab Republic 35Georgia 35United Arab Emirates 34Chinese Taipei-CHN 34Kazakhstan 32Armenia 32Jordan 29Saudi Arabia 26Qatar 25Malaysia 25Japan 25Turkey 24Bahrain 24Lebanon 24Ghana 23Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 22Oman 22Morocco 21Hong Kong-CHN 20Thailand 20Chile 16Israel 13Tunisia 12Indonesia 10


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 75Minnesota-USA 69Connecticut-USA 67North Carolina-USA 66Alberta-CAN 66Florida-USA 63Indiana-USA 56Colorado-USA 54Ontario-CAN 53California-USA 46Alabama-USA 44Quebec-CAN 42Dubai-UAE 40Abu Dhabi-UAE 33




Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic

Energy Transformations, Heat, and Temperature

Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Energy conversion in a flashlight

Which of the following energy conversions takes place in a battery-operated fl ashlight?

A. electrical mechanical light

B. chemical mechanical light

C. chemical electrical light

D. nuclear electrical light


Correct Response: C



Singapore 82Hong Kong-CHN 79Japan 55England-GBR 51New Zealand 51Israel 49Malaysia 44Australia 41Norway 40Italy 39Indonesia 38United States 38Qatar 37Ghana 37Saudi Arabia 36Bahrain 36Lebanon 35Chinese Taipei-CHN 35International average 35Iran, Islamic Rep. of 35United Arab Emirates 34Russian Federation 33Tunisia 33Turkey 33Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 32Finland 31Oman 31Sweden 29Chile 29Armenia 27Slovenia 25Jordan 25Kazakhstan 24Hungary 24Syrian Arab Republic 23Thailand 22Lithuania 21Romania 20Macedonia, Rep. of 20Ukraine 20Morocco 20Georgia 18Korea, Rep. of —


Percentcorrect

Florida-USA 45Dubai-UAE 42Minnesota-USA 41Alberta-CAN 38Colorado-USA 35Massachusetts-USA 34Indiana-USA 32Alabama-USA 32Connecticut-USA 31Abu Dhabi-UAE 31Ontario-CAN 30North Carolina-USA 28California-USA 26Quebec-CAN 22


— Not applicable



Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic

Forces and Motion

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Gravity acting on parachute jumper

The figure shows a parachute jumper in four positions.

1. In the aircraft before the jump

2. In freefall immediately aft er jumpingbefore parachute opens

3. Falling to the ground aft er theparachute opens

4. On the ground just aft er landing

In which of the positions does the force of gravity act on the jumper?

A. Position 2 only.

B. Positions 2 and 3 only.

C. Positions 1, 2 and 3 only.

D. Positions 1, 2, 3, and 4.


Correct Response: D



Korea, Rep. of 63Finland 59Israel 54Japan 49Sweden 49Slovenia 47Singapore 45Hungary 45England-GBR 43Lithuania 42Ukraine 40Russian Federation 38United States 37Hong Kong-CHN 36Chinese Taipei-CHN 35Turkey 34Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 34Norway 32International average 32Jordan 30Armenia 30Australia 30New Zealand 29United Arab Emirates 28Italy 26Qatar 26Lebanon 26Bahrain 25Syrian Arab Republic 25Ghana 22Kazakhstan 22Oman 22Thailand 22Iran, Islamic Rep. of 22Romania 22Saudi Arabia 20Macedonia, Rep. of 20Georgia 20Chile 19Morocco 16Malaysia 16Tunisia 16Indonesia 13


Percentcorrect

Connecticut-USA 51Minnesota-USA 49Alberta-CAN 44Massachusetts-USA 43Ontario-CAN 43Florida-USA 42Indiana-USA 38North Carolina-USA 38Colorado-USA 36Quebec-CAN 33California-USA 33Alabama-USA 32Dubai-UAE 27Abu Dhabi-UAE 26




Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Molecules of gas when heated

A gas is heated and its temperature increases. What happens to the gas molecules?

A. They get bigger.

B. They move faster.

C. They move slower.

D. They increase in number.


Correct Response: B



Korea, Rep. of 86Israel 81Russian Federation 80Singapore 79Norway 75United States 75Finland 73Turkey 72Hungary 71Saudi Arabia 71Sweden 69Slovenia 69England-GBR 67Chinese Taipei-CHN 67Chile 66Ukraine 66New Zealand 65Kazakhstan 65Australia 64Italy 62Iran, Islamic Rep. of 61Bahrain 61International average 60Armenia 59Hong Kong-CHN 59Malaysia 58United Arab Emirates 58Oman 58Lithuania 57Georgia 55Macedonia, Rep. of 54Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 52Qatar 52Jordan 51Japan 45Indonesia 45Ghana 44Morocco 40Lebanon 39Romania 38Tunisia 38Syrian Arab Republic 37Thailand 33


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 89Alberta-CAN 86Florida-USA 82Indiana-USA 80Colorado-USA 78Ontario-CAN 77Minnesota-USA 76Connecticut-USA 72California-USA 67North Carolina-USA 67Alabama-USA 64Quebec-CAN 62Dubai-UAE 61Abu Dhabi-UAE 60




Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic

Electricity and Magnetism

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Bulbs in series/parallel circuit

Three identical light bulbs are connected to a battery as shown in the diagram. Th e arrow indicates the direction of the current fl ow.

Which statement is true?

A. Th e current in Bulb 1 is greater than the current in Bulb 2.

B. Th e current in Bulb 1 is greater than the current in Bulb 3.

C. Th e current in Bulb 2 is the same as the current in Bulb 3.

D. Th e current in Bulb 2 is the same as the current in Bulb 1.

Battery

Bulb 1 Bulb 2

Bulb 3

Direction of current ow


Correct Response: D



Korea, Rep. of 71Singapore 68Japan 62Russian Federation 54Hungary 52United Arab Emirates 49Israel 49Hong Kong-CHN 49Romania 48Malaysia 47Lebanon 47Armenia 47Turkey 46Tunisia 46Iran, Islamic Rep. of 45England-GBR 45Kazakhstan 45Macedonia, Rep. of 44Italy 43Bahrain 43International average 43Australia 41Saudi Arabia 41United States 40Sweden 40Chile 40Oman 40Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 40Jordan 39Finland 38New Zealand 37Syrian Arab Republic 37Qatar 37Indonesia 36Slovenia 35Ukraine 35Lithuania 34Ghana 32Georgia 31Norway 31Thailand 8Chinese Taipei-CHN —Morocco —


Percentcorrect

Abu Dhabi-UAE 52Indiana-USA 51Dubai-UAE 49Florida-USA 46Alabama-USA 45California-USA 42North Carolina-USA 40Ontario-CAN 39Connecticut-USA 38Colorado-USA 36Quebec-CAN 36Alberta-CAN 32Massachusetts-USA —Minnesota-USA —


— Not applicable



Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Applying

Gaps between metal rail spans

Which of the following best explains why some railroad tracks are laid down with gaps between the metal rail spans?

A. To allow for the metal tracks to expand on hot days.

B. To allow for the metal tracks to expand on cold days.

C. To allow for cooling of the tracks by air in the gaps.

D. To allow for vibration of the tracks due to the train.

gaps

metal rail span


Correct Response: A



Chinese Taipei-CHN 87Singapore 81Hong Kong-CHN 76Korea, Rep. of 62Lithuania 61Australia 60Hungary 59Malaysia 55Finland 55Japan 53Turkey 52Syrian Arab Republic 50New Zealand 46Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 44Russian Federation 44Sweden 43Indonesia 43Oman 43Italy 42International average 41Qatar 40Romania 40United States 39Bahrain 38Saudi Arabia 38Iran, Islamic Rep. of 37England-GBR 37Norway 35Jordan 33Tunisia 32United Arab Emirates 31Macedonia, Rep. of 30Ukraine 29Israel 28Georgia 27Slovenia 27Thailand 26Kazakhstan 22Morocco 21Ghana 20Armenia 18Lebanon 18Chile 11


Percentcorrect

Alberta-CAN 60Minnesota-USA 49Massachusetts-USA 47Indiana-USA 43Ontario-CAN 42Florida-USA 41Connecticut-USA 40North Carolina-USA 38Abu Dhabi-UAE 37Colorado-USA 34Alabama-USA 32Dubai-UAE 30California-USA 27Quebec-CAN 19




Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Water level in heated container

The figure shows a glass tube open at one end and connected to a closed glass sphere at the other end. Th e equipment is partly fi lled with water, as shown, so that there is air above the water in the sphere. Th e water in the tube reaches level X.

Th e air in the glass sphere is then heated by a hair dryer.

A. What will be the water level in the open glass tube aft er the sphere is heated? (Circle 1, 2 or 3 below.)


XAir

XXX

Higher than X Lower than X Same as X

1 2 3

Water


SCORINGCorrect Response• HIGHER (1) with a correct explanation that refers to air expanding when heated or an increase in

volume or pressure (or similar).Examples:When the sphere is heated, the air expands and pushes the water up the tube.The pressure will make the water rise.• Other correct

Incorrect Response• HIGHER (1) with no explanation or an incorrect explanation.• LOWER (2) with no explanation or an incorrect explanation.• SAME (3) with no explanation or an incorrect explanation.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Singapore 45Russian Federation 29Korea, Rep. of 28Kazakhstan 25Chinese Taipei-CHN 24Japan 23Hong Kong-CHN 22Israel 18Slovenia 18Hungary 17Iran, Islamic Rep. of 17Finland 15Armenia 14Sweden 14Australia 13Norway 13International average 13Bahrain 13Chile 12Lithuania 12Turkey 11New Zealand 11Ukraine 11Romania 11United States 11England-GBR 10Malaysia 9Macedonia, Rep. of 8Syrian Arab Republic 8Thailand 8Indonesia 8Jordan 8Tunisia 8Italy 8Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 8Oman 7Lebanon 7Georgia 7Qatar 7United Arab Emirates 7Saudi Arabia 6Morocco 4Ghana 1


Percentcorrect

Alberta-CAN 26Ontario-CAN 24Massachusetts-USA 16Quebec-CAN 15Colorado-USA 14Connecticut-USA 14Minnesota-USA 14Florida-USA 13Indiana-USA 12North Carolina-USA 8Abu Dhabi-UAE 8Dubai-UAE 8California-USA 6Alabama-USA 6




Water level in heated container (continued)S032272:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Th e fi gure shows a glass tube open at one end and connected to a closed glass sphere at the other end. Th e equipment is partly fi lled with water, as shown, so that there is air above the water in the sphere. Th e water in the tube reaches level X.




XAir

XXX


1 2 3

Water

Incorrect Response:

Th e fi gure shows a glass tube open at one end and connected to a closed glass sphere at the other end. Th e equipment is partly fi lled with water, as shown, so that there is air above the water in the sphere. Th e water in the tube reaches level X.




XAir

XXX


1 2 3

Water



Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic

Forces and Motion

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Why bottle collapses in the valley

A man climbed to the top of a very high mountain. While on the mountain top, he drank all the water in his plastic water bottle and then put the cover back on. When he returned to camp in the valley, he discovered that the empty bottle had collapsed.

Which of the following best explains why this happened?

A. The temperature is lower in the valley than on the mountain top.

B. The temperature is higher in the valley than on the mountain top.

C. Air pressure in the valley is lower than on the mountain top.

D. Air pressure in the valley is higher than on the mountain top.


Correct Response: D



Japan 57Hong Kong-CHN 50Slovenia 48Russian Federation 44Chinese Taipei-CHN 42Turkey 41Korea, Rep. of 40United States 38Israel 37Sweden 37England-GBR 36Lithuania 36Italy 36Malaysia 35New Zealand 35Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 35Australia 34Hungary 34Singapore 34Norway 33Thailand 33International average 33Bahrain 32Armenia 31Iran, Islamic Rep. of 30Jordan 30Finland 30Ukraine 30Kazakhstan 29Tunisia 29Qatar 28Georgia 28United Arab Emirates 28Chile 28Syrian Arab Republic 28Indonesia 25Oman 24Saudi Arabia 24Ghana 23Lebanon 22Macedonia, Rep. of 22Romania 21Morocco 21


Percentcorrect

Minnesota-USA 46Massachusetts-USA 39Connecticut-USA 39Florida-USA 39North Carolina-USA 38Indiana-USA 36Alberta-CAN 35Colorado-USA 33California-USA 33Ontario-CAN 32Alabama-USA 32Dubai-UAE 31Quebec-CAN 31Abu Dhabi-UAE 29




Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic

Light and Sound

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Sound from electric bell in jar

The diagram shows an electric bell inside a jar. The electric bell is switched on and a ringing sound is heard. Th e air is then pumped out of the jar.

What will happen to the sound of the bell when the air is pumped out of the jar? Explain your answer.

tube to vacuum pump

electric bell

electric wires

jar


SCORINGCorrect Response• Refers to sound fading AND explains that sound needs a medium to travel through (or similar).Example: The sound will die out because if there is no air, then it cannot transfer the sound.• Other fully correct

Partially Correct Response• Refers to sound fading (or similar) with NO further explanation.• Refers to sound fading with a minimal explanation that refers only to the vacuum or lack of air.

[Does not explicitly refer to sound needing a medium to travel through.]• Other partially correct

Incorrect Response• Refers to sound disappearing (or similar) with an incorrect explanation that reflects a

misconception about the production/transmission of sound.• Refers to sound being louder, clearer (or similar) with or without further explanation.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Chinese Taipei-CHN 60Japan 58Hong Kong-CHN 44Korea, Rep. of 40Jordan 35Turkey 33Lithuania 33Finland 32Hungary 32Slovenia 32England-GBR 29Russian Federation 28Singapore 27Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 27Iran, Islamic Rep. of 26Oman 24Syrian Arab Republic 23Ukraine 23Armenia 22International average 22Kazakhstan 22Sweden 21Israel 19United States 18Australia 17Italy 17Bahrain 16New Zealand 16Macedonia, Rep. of 16Georgia 15Qatar 14Malaysia 14Tunisia 13Norway 12United Arab Emirates 12Thailand 10Lebanon 10Saudi Arabia 10Romania 7Indonesia 6Morocco 4Ghana 4Chile 3


Percentcorrect

Florida-USA 27Colorado-USA 23Massachusetts-USA 21Minnesota-USA 20Dubai-UAE 20Connecticut-USA 19North Carolina-USA 16Indiana-USA 16Quebec-CAN 14Alabama-USA 13Ontario-CAN 11Alberta-CAN 9Abu Dhabi-UAE 8California-USA 6




Sound from electric bell in jar (continued)S032369:

Student Responses

Correct Response:


Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Applying

Heat conduction through copper rod

A student attaches four drawing pins to a copper rod using candle wax as shown in the diagram. Th e rod is then heated continuously at one end and the pins fall off in the order 4, 3, 2, 1.

By which process does heat reach the pins?

A. expansion

B. radiation

C. conduction

D. convection

HeatDrawing pins

Copper rod

1 2 3 4


Correct Response: C



Chinese Taipei-CHN 91Russian Federation 91Ukraine 79Kazakhstan 77Japan 72Singapore 72Korea, Rep. of 70Hong Kong-CHN 69Armenia 66Sweden 66Hungary 63Romania 62Jordan 61Macedonia, Rep. of 59Oman 55Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 54Israel 53International average 52Iran, Islamic Rep. of 51England-GBR 51Lithuania 51Finland 51Chile 49United Arab Emirates 49Italy 48Slovenia 48Saudi Arabia 47Turkey 46Qatar 45Malaysia 43New Zealand 43United States 41Australia 41Bahrain 40Thailand 40Ghana 40Georgia 38Indonesia 32Lebanon 31Norway 30Syrian Arab Republic 25Morocco 22Tunisia 15


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 55Quebec-CAN 54Dubai-UAE 54Florida-USA 53Minnesota-USA 48Abu Dhabi-UAE 47Indiana-USA 42Alberta-CAN 42California-USA 42Connecticut-USA 40Colorado-USA 40North Carolina-USA 40Alabama-USA 33Ontario-CAN 32




Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic

Physical States and Changes in Matter

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Change-stay the same-DERIVED

As a liquid changes into a gas, which characteristics or properties change and which stay the same?

In each row of the table below, put an X in the appropriate column.

Changes Stays the SameDensityMassVolumeSize of moleculesSpeed of molecules


SCORINGCorrect Response• Places the X’s correctly as shown below:

Changes Stays the Same

Density X

Mass X

Volume X

Size of Molecules X

Speed of Molecules X




Israel 65Korea, Rep. of 54Japan 53Singapore 49Chinese Taipei-CHN 49Ukraine 45Slovenia 43Russian Federation 43Hong Kong-CHN 40Turkey 40Kazakhstan 40Finland 38England-GBR 37Iran, Islamic Rep. of 36United States 35Chile 35Norway 35New Zealand 34International average 34Saudi Arabia 34United Arab Emirates 33Sweden 32Bahrain 32Armenia 31Italy 31Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 30Hungary 30Lithuania 30Jordan 29Oman 29Qatar 28Australia 28Tunisia 26Syrian Arab Republic 26Macedonia, Rep. of 25Georgia 24Malaysia 23Romania 22Lebanon 22Indonesia 18Thailand 17Ghana 9Morocco —


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 54Florida-USA 44California-USA 43Colorado-USA 42Alberta-CAN 42Minnesota-USA 39Abu Dhabi-UAE 38Indiana-USA 38Connecticut-USA 37Ontario-CAN 36Dubai-UAE 32North Carolina-USA 31Quebec-CAN 26Alabama-USA 25


— Not applicable



Change-stay the same (continued)S042173Z:

Student Responses

Correct Response:As a liquid changes into a gas, which characteristics or properties change and which stay the same?



Incorrect Response:As a liquid changes into a gas, which characteristics or properties change and which stay the same?





Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Strength of a magnet

A student sets up an investigation to test the strength of magnets. He has several magnets of diff erent sizes, shapes, and masses. He uses the magnets to lift metal paper clips.

How is the strength of a magnet defi ned in the investigation?

A. by the mass of the magnet lift ing the metal paper clips

B. by the size of the magnet lift ing the metal paper clips

C. by the number of metal paper clips lift ed by the magnet

D. by the time the metal paper clips stay on the magnet


Correct Response: C



Singapore 80Slovenia 68Korea, Rep. of 68England-GBR 65Japan 63Chinese Taipei-CHN 60Australia 58United States 57Russian Federation 55Ukraine 54New Zealand 54Malaysia 50Hong Kong-CHN 49Qatar 42Sweden 42Finland 42Bahrain 42International average 42Hungary 41United Arab Emirates 38Chile 38Iran, Islamic Rep. of 38Tunisia 37Jordan 37Oman 35Italy 35Israel 35Syrian Arab Republic 34Armenia 33Norway 33Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 33Lithuania 33Turkey 32Thailand 32Romania 31Saudi Arabia 29Macedonia, Rep. of 29Kazakhstan 29Lebanon 28Morocco 27Georgia 24Ghana 23Indonesia 17


Percentcorrect

Alberta-CAN 67Indiana-USA 62Massachusetts-USA 62Florida-USA 61Minnesota-USA 61Connecticut-USA 61Colorado-USA 60North Carolina-USA 55Ontario-CAN 54Alabama-USA 49California-USA 49Dubai-UAE 45Quebec-CAN 42Abu Dhabi-UAE 36




Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Position of thermometer

Two kinds of heat sources are usually available in the science lab; an electric hot plate and a Bunsen burner. Jack planned an investigation to test which of these sources heats water faster.

He poured 200 mL of water into each of two identical beakers and recorded the initial temperature of the water in each beaker.

A. Where should Jack place the thermometer to accurately take his readings during his investigation?

A. B.

C. D.


Correct Response: C



Hong Kong-CHN 71Japan 64Korea, Rep. of 60Chinese Taipei-CHN 59Finland 58New Zealand 58Norway 57Australia 57Russian Federation 53Singapore 53Slovenia 52Sweden 52Hungary 51United States 48England-GBR 48Thailand 43Italy 43Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 43Lithuania 43International average 41Ukraine 40Malaysia 38Israel 36Romania 35Oman 35Turkey 35United Arab Emirates 34Qatar 33Morocco 32Bahrain 32Lebanon 31Kazakhstan 31Jordan 31Macedonia, Rep. of 31Chile 31Iran, Islamic Rep. of 28Saudi Arabia 28Syrian Arab Republic 28Tunisia 25Georgia 23Armenia 23Indonesia 22Ghana 13


Percentcorrect

Quebec-CAN 66Colorado-USA 60Alberta-CAN 59Minnesota-USA 58Ontario-CAN 53Massachusetts-USA 53North Carolina-USA 52Florida-USA 51Indiana-USA 51Connecticut-USA 50Alabama-USA 43California-USA 42Dubai-UAE 42Abu Dhabi-UAE 32




Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

One variable kept constant

B. List one variable that Jack controlled in his investigation.

Jack then placed one beaker on a hot plate and the other over a Bunsen burner, as shown below.

He recorded the temperature of the water in each set up every two minutes for ten minutes.

Hot Plate Setup

200 mLwater

200 mLwater

Bunsen Burner Setup


SCORINGCorrect Response• Lists one variable as shown below.The beakers (same, same shape, same size, same materials)The water (same volume, from the same place)The thermometer (same type, same position for taking readings)Location of the experiment (same place, same room)

Incorrect Response• Incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)Examples:The initial temperature.Checking the temperature.Timing.



Japan 65Singapore 60England-GBR 49Slovenia 43Turkey 43New Zealand 41United States 39Australia 38Ukraine 32Chinese Taipei-CHN 29Israel 29Hong Kong-CHN 29Thailand 26Jordan 23Russian Federation 22International average 21Syrian Arab Republic 20Lithuania 20Oman 19Malaysia 19Hungary 18United Arab Emirates 17Georgia 16Romania 14Bahrain 13Korea, Rep. of 11Armenia 10Iran, Islamic Rep. of 10Qatar 9Norway 9Kazakhstan 8Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 8Morocco 8Lebanon 8Ghana 7Tunisia 7Finland 6Chile 5Macedonia, Rep. of 5Indonesia 5Italy 4Saudi Arabia 3Sweden —


Percentcorrect

Connecticut-USA 57Colorado-USA 54Alberta-CAN 54Minnesota-USA 51Florida-USA 48Massachusetts-USA 45Indiana-USA 36North Carolina-USA 35Ontario-CAN 30California-USA 27Dubai-UAE 24Alabama-USA 20Abu Dhabi-UAE 18Quebec-CAN 9


— Not applicable



One variable kept constant (continued)S042238B:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Conclusion from the graph

C. Jack used his results to draw a graph as shown below.

Use the information in the graph to explain which heat source heated the water faster.

Tem

pera

ture

(°C)

80

60

40

20

O

O

O

O

O

XOX

XX

XX

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Time (minutes)

O: Bunsen Burner

X: Hot Plate


SCORINGCorrect Response• States that the Bunsen Burner heated the water faster than the hot plate. Examples:The bunsen burner heated faster because the temperature of the water after 10 minutes was higher

than the temperature of the water being heated by the hot plate. The bunsen burner heats up water at a faster rate than the hot plate.




Singapore 91Korea, Rep. of 90Finland 90Australia 88United States 87England-GBR 86Japan 86New Zealand 85Chinese Taipei-CHN 85Hungary 85Lithuania 84Hong Kong-CHN 82Norway 80Sweden 77Israel 77Italy 74Russian Federation 71Turkey 70Chile 67Ukraine 66United Arab Emirates 66Iran, Islamic Rep. of 65International average 62Tunisia 58Malaysia 57Jordan 57Bahrain 56Oman 52Kazakhstan 50Lebanon 49Thailand 49Saudi Arabia 49Qatar 49Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 47Georgia 38Romania 36Macedonia, Rep. of 35Morocco 35Syrian Arab Republic 30Indonesia 30Armenia 26Ghana 17Slovenia 12


Percentcorrect

Minnesota-USA 93Massachusetts-USA 92Indiana-USA 90Colorado-USA 90North Carolina-USA 88Florida-USA 86Connecticut-USA 86California-USA 84Ontario-CAN 83Alberta-CAN 81Alabama-USA 81Dubai-UAE 74Abu Dhabi-UAE 65Quebec-CAN 43




Conclusion from the graph (continued)S042238C:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:




Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Molecules of liquid when it cools

What happens to the molecules of a liquid when the liquid cools?

A. Th ey slow down.

B. Th ey speed up.

C. Th ey decrease in number.

D. Th ey decrease in size.


Correct Response: A



Korea, Rep. of 82Slovenia 80Russian Federation 77Israel 75Singapore 73Finland 73United States 73Sweden 72Kazakhstan 71New Zealand 70Hungary 70Norway 68Bahrain 67Ukraine 67England-GBR 65Turkey 63Saudi Arabia 63Australia 62United Arab Emirates 60Iran, Islamic Rep. of 60Armenia 59Romania 59Lithuania 59International average 58Georgia 56Italy 56Chinese Taipei-CHN 56Malaysia 53Hong Kong-CHN 52Chile 51Oman 50Japan 50Macedonia, Rep. of 49Qatar 47Jordan 46Thailand 41Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 40Syrian Arab Republic 37Lebanon 37Indonesia 35Morocco 33Tunisia 32Ghana 31


Percentcorrect

Alberta-CAN 86Massachusetts-USA 86Ontario-CAN 83Florida-USA 81Indiana-USA 79Minnesota-USA 79Colorado-USA 76Connecticut-USA 75North Carolina-USA 71California-USA 71Alabama-USA 65Quebec-CAN 65Abu Dhabi-UAE 61Dubai-UAE 59




Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic

Light and Sound

Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Speed of light through substances

Light travels fastest through which of the following?

A. air

B. glass

C. water

D. a vacuum


Correct Response: D



Korea, Rep. of 64Chinese Taipei-CHN 59Singapore 54Japan 53Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 52Turkey 50Jordan 48Oman 48Saudi Arabia 47Finland 44Italy 44Tunisia 41Hungary 40Morocco 40Israel 40Bahrain 38Indonesia 36Sweden 34Russian Federation 33International average 33Hong Kong-CHN 31Qatar 31United Arab Emirates 30Lebanon 30Syrian Arab Republic 29Chile 28Thailand 28Ukraine 27Iran, Islamic Rep. of 26Kazakhstan 25Armenia 25Ghana 24Romania 24England-GBR 21Macedonia, Rep. of 19New Zealand 18Norway 17Australia 16Malaysia 15Slovenia 14United States 13Lithuania 12Georgia 11


Percentcorrect

Quebec-CAN 34Abu Dhabi-UAE 33Dubai-UAE 24Florida-USA 22Connecticut-USA 18California-USA 13Alberta-CAN 13Colorado-USA 13Minnesota-USA 12Massachusetts-USA 12Indiana-USA 11Alabama-USA 10North Carolina-USA 9Ontario-CAN 9




Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic

Light and Sound

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Path of light through periscope

The diagram below shows a periscope. Mary is using it to look over a wall.

Draw the path the light ray would take through the periscope. Show the direction of the light ray with arrows.

mirror

mirror


SCORINGCorrect Response• Draws a correct path of the light ray with arrows showing the direction as shown below.

Incorrect Response• Draws a correct path of the light ray, but arrows are missing.• Draws a correct path of the light ray, but the direction is reversed.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Kazakhstan 57Finland 53Singapore 53Hungary 50Hong Kong-CHN 49Slovenia 47Russian Federation 46England-GBR 42Chinese Taipei-CHN 41Sweden 40Australia 39Lithuania 39Iran, Islamic Rep. of 38Thailand 37New Zealand 36Italy 34Romania 34United States 34Japan 33Korea, Rep. of 32Norway 32International average 30Israel 29Armenia 26Tunisia 26Ukraine 25Macedonia, Rep. of 24Qatar 23Syrian Arab Republic 23Malaysia 22Chile 22United Arab Emirates 22Bahrain 19Lebanon 19Turkey 19Georgia 19Oman 19Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 18Saudi Arabia 17Morocco 16Jordan 12Indonesia 11Ghana 5


Percentcorrect

Minnesota-USA 49Alberta-CAN 44Indiana-USA 43Massachusetts-USA 41Quebec-CAN 40Ontario-CAN 39Colorado-USA 37Connecticut-USA 36Florida-USA 33North Carolina-USA 31Dubai-UAE 31California-USA 29Alabama-USA 26Abu Dhabi-UAE 20




Path of light through periscope (continued)S042278:

Student Responses

Correct Response:Th e diagram below shows a periscope. Mary is using it to look over a wall.


mirror

mirror

Incorrect Response:Th e diagram below shows a periscope. Mary is using it to look over a wall.


mirror

mirror



Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Find out if metal 2 is a magnet

Ray has two metal bars. He knows Metal bar 1 is a magnet.

A. How could he use Metal bar 1 to fi nd out if Metal bar 2 is a magnet?

B. What would he observe if Metal bar 2 is a magnet?

Metal bar 1

Metal bar 2


SCORINGCorrect Response• Refers to metals repelling each other. May or may not include attraction.Examples:Put one end of Metal 1 to both ends of Metal 2; If the metals repel, then Metal 2 is a magnet. When either one of the ends goes near metal 2 it repels.

Incorrect Response• Refers to attraction only.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Singapore 59Korea, Rep. of 57Finland 54Hungary 51Russian Federation 48Sweden 45Slovenia 40Japan 39Norway 38Australia 38Turkey 37Lithuania 34Ukraine 33Chinese Taipei-CHN 33Romania 32Kazakhstan 32United States 31Iran, Islamic Rep. of 30New Zealand 30Israel 30Italy 29Chile 29International average 28Hong Kong-CHN 28England-GBR 27United Arab Emirates 27Jordan 23Bahrain 21Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 21Armenia 20Malaysia 19Qatar 18Tunisia 16Syrian Arab Republic 16Macedonia, Rep. of 15Thailand 13Lebanon 12Oman 12Georgia 9Indonesia 9Morocco 7Saudi Arabia 6Ghana 3


Percentcorrect

Colorado-USA 43Minnesota-USA 40Ontario-CAN 39Massachusetts-USA 37Indiana-USA 36Alberta-CAN 35Connecticut-USA 34Quebec-CAN 34Florida-USA 33Dubai-UAE 31Abu Dhabi-UAE 29North Carolina-USA 27Alabama-USA 25California-USA 24




Find out if metal 2 is a magnet (continued)S042403:

Student Responses

Correct Response:Ray has two metal bars. He knows Metal bar 1 is a magnet.



Metal bar 1

Metal bar 2

Incorrect Response:Ray has two metal bars. He knows Metal bar 1 is a magnet.



Metal bar 1

Metal bar 2



Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic

Physical States and Changes in Matter

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Liquid on outside of pitcher

Ice-cold water was placed in a glass pitcher on a hot day (Diagram 1). Soon aft erwards, liquid appeared on the outside of the pitcher (Diagram 2).

Describe the process that caused the liquid to appear on the outside of the pitcher.

Diagram 1 Diagram 2


SCORINGCorrect Response• Describes the process of condensation by referring to water vapor (in the air) condensing on the

cool outside surface of the pitcher.Example: It came from the water vapor condensing on the cool surface of a glass pitcher.

Partially Correct Response• Describes the process of condensation by referring to water vapor (in the air) condensing without

mentioning the coolness of the pitcher.Example: The liquid came from water vapor condensing.• States condensation without referring to water vapor.Example: Condensation.




Japan 35Chinese Taipei-CHN 30Singapore 22Saudi Arabia 15Kazakhstan 14Israel 13Hong Kong-CHN 13Hungary 12England-GBR 12Korea, Rep. of 11Sweden 11Iran, Islamic Rep. of 10Slovenia 8International average 7Norway 7Bahrain 7Australia 7Finland 7Qatar 6Russian Federation 6Jordan 5United Arab Emirates 5New Zealand 5Romania 5Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 4Armenia 4Turkey 4Oman 4Macedonia, Rep. of 3Italy 3Lebanon 3United States 2Malaysia 2Georgia 2Indonesia 2Ukraine 2Lithuania 2Syrian Arab Republic 2Chile 1Thailand 1Morocco 1Ghana 1Tunisia #


Percentcorrect

Ontario-CAN 10Quebec-CAN 9Alberta-CAN 7Abu Dhabi-UAE 7Massachusetts-USA 6Dubai-UAE 5Minnesota-USA 5Connecticut-USA 4Colorado-USA 4North Carolina-USA 2Florida-USA 2Alabama-USA 2Indiana-USA 1California-USA 1


# Rounds to zero



Liquid on outside of pitcher (continued)S042404:

Student Responses

Correct Response:


Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Applying

Which ice block will melt first

Th e pictures below show two ice blocks. Block 2 is wrapped in newspaper.

A. Which ice block will melt fi rst?

(Check one box.)

Block 1

Block 2


Ice Block 1 Ice Block 2 wrapped in newspaper


SCORINGCorrect Response• Block 1 with a explanation referring to heat OR surrounding air (hot air, sun) reaching ice block 1

more easily than ice block 2.Examples:Block 1 gains heat from the surrounding air. Block 2 does not gain much heat as it is wrapped in

newspaper.The newspaper helps to block some of the heat.

Incorrect Response• Block 2 with an explanation referring explicitly or implicitly to the newspaper making the ice block

warmer.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Chinese Taipei-CHN 60Singapore 53Japan 51Ukraine 49Chile 45Tunisia 43Korea, Rep. of 43Slovenia 43Hong Kong-CHN 42Australia 41Iran, Islamic Rep. of 39Thailand 39Romania 39Kazakhstan 38Bahrain 38Hungary 38England-GBR 38Russian Federation 37Indonesia 37Jordan 36Turkey 36International average 35New Zealand 34Malaysia 34Israel 34Sweden 33Syrian Arab Republic 33Qatar 32United States 31Finland 31Oman 31Lithuania 30United Arab Emirates 30Norway 29Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 28Italy 28Saudi Arabia 28Ghana 24Armenia 24Georgia 22Lebanon 20Macedonia, Rep. of 18Morocco 17


Percentcorrect

Alberta-CAN 59Ontario-CAN 49Quebec-CAN 46Minnesota-USA 36Massachusetts-USA 34Florida-USA 34Abu Dhabi-UAE 31Colorado-USA 31Dubai-UAE 30California-USA 28North Carolina-USA 28Connecticut-USA 28Indiana-USA 28Alabama-USA 20




Which ice block will melt first (continued)S042407:

Student Responses

Correct Response:



(Check one box.)

Block 1

Block 2



Incorrect Response:



(Check one box.)

Block 1

Block 2





Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Water wheel: Energy of tank water

Th e diagram shows water fl owing from a tank and rotating a wheel.

A. What kind of energy does the water have when it is in the tank?

tank

blade

wheel


SCORINGCorrect Response• (Gravitational) potential energy or gravitational energy or stored energy




Singapore 64Hong Kong-CHN 38Israel 35Saudi Arabia 33Iran, Islamic Rep. of 33United States 32New Zealand 27Russian Federation 26Slovenia 24Ukraine 24Kazakhstan 23Australia 22Armenia 22Ghana 19Italy 19Turkey 18Lebanon 18England-GBR 17International average 17Macedonia, Rep. of 15Bahrain 15Malaysia 14Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 14Lithuania 14Finland 13Qatar 13Romania 13United Arab Emirates 10Sweden 10Jordan 9Indonesia 8Japan 8Korea, Rep. of 7Norway 7Syrian Arab Republic 7Oman 6Thailand 5Georgia 5Hungary 4Chile 2Tunisia 1Chinese Taipei-CHN 1Morocco #


Percentcorrect

Florida-USA 60Colorado-USA 48Massachusetts-USA 47Connecticut-USA 40Alabama-USA 32Indiana-USA 30Minnesota-USA 21North Carolina-USA 18Alberta-CAN 16Dubai-UAE 14Abu Dhabi-UAE 11Ontario-CAN 11California-USA 5Quebec-CAN 2


# Rounds to zero



Water wheel: Energy of tank water (continued)S052165A:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Water wheel: Energy before wheel


B. What kind of energy does the water have just before it hits the wheel?

tank

blade

wheel


SCORINGCorrect Response• Kinetic energy (with or without (gravitational) potential energy, or gravitational energy, or stored

energy)




Singapore 66Hong Kong-CHN 60Israel 47Saudi Arabia 42England-GBR 39United States 37Finland 37Italy 34Ukraine 31Malaysia 31New Zealand 31Oman 31Slovenia 29Russian Federation 29Turkey 28Bahrain 27Australia 27Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 27Iran, Islamic Rep. of 25Kazakhstan 25International average 24Armenia 22Qatar 21Tunisia 21Sweden 21Ghana 20Jordan 19Lebanon 18United Arab Emirates 18Macedonia, Rep. of 16Korea, Rep. of 15Syrian Arab Republic 15Romania 13Lithuania 13Japan 13Indonesia 12Hungary 11Norway 9Thailand 9Chile 8Georgia 4Morocco 1Chinese Taipei-CHN 1


Percentcorrect

Florida-USA 63Massachusetts-USA 54Colorado-USA 52Connecticut-USA 41Indiana-USA 39Alabama-USA 37North Carolina-USA 27Minnesota-USA 26Alberta-CAN 23Dubai-UAE 22Abu Dhabi-UAE 20Ontario-CAN 15California-USA 10Quebec-CAN 4




Water wheel: Energy before wheel (continued)S052165B:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Water wheel: Faster rotation


C. Write one change to the system that will make the wheel rotate faster.

tank

blade

wheel


SCORINGCorrect Response• Gives a reason related to increasing the flow of water from the list of acceptable responses below. Put more water in the tankUse a taller water tankMake the outlet wider/biggerMake another outletIncrease the distance between the wheel and the tankMake the wheel smallerMake the blades wider/bigger/longerIncrease the number of blades

Incorrect Response• Incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task), including responses that

do not include how to change the system.



Singapore 67Japan 58Hong Kong-CHN 46Korea, Rep. of 44Israel 44Chinese Taipei-CHN 44England-GBR 42Finland 41Iran, Islamic Rep. of 40Turkey 37Russian Federation 37Australia 36Slovenia 35Hungary 34Norway 31Ukraine 31Lithuania 31New Zealand 29United States 28International average 27Sweden 26Syrian Arab Republic 25Romania 25Italy 23Oman 23Kazakhstan 20Tunisia 20Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 20Bahrain 18Jordan 18United Arab Emirates 18Saudi Arabia 17Macedonia, Rep. of 17Qatar 17Malaysia 16Armenia 16Georgia 13Chile 12Lebanon 11Thailand 10Indonesia 9Morocco 5Ghana 3


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 37Minnesota-USA 35Alberta-CAN 35Colorado-USA 33Connecticut-USA 33Ontario-CAN 32Quebec-CAN 31Indiana-USA 25Florida-USA 25Dubai-UAE 24North Carolina-USA 23Alabama-USA 17California-USA 17Abu Dhabi-UAE 17




Water wheel: Faster rotation (continued)S052165C:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

PHYSICS

Main Topic

Forces and Motion

Cognitive Domain

Knowing

In which liquid would object float

An object has a density of 1.1 g/cm3.

A. In which liquid would this object fl oat?

(Check one box.)

Liquid X: 1.3 g/cm3

Liquid Y: 0.9 g/cm3



SCORINGCorrect Response• Liquid X with an explanation that refers to the object being less dense.Examples:Liquid X – The density of the object is lower than the density of liquid X, so it can float in liquid X. Liquid X – In order for the object to float, it must have a lower density than the liquid.

Incorrect Response• Liquid X with an explanation that refers to the object/liquid being heavier or lighter. • Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Korea, Rep. of 62Singapore 61Slovenia 58Chinese Taipei-CHN 52Hungary 48Russian Federation 47Hong Kong-CHN 45Finland 44United States 43Japan 39Turkey 38Israel 36Ukraine 36Romania 35Kazakhstan 35Lithuania 35Thailand 33Jordan 32International average 31United Arab Emirates 30Tunisia 30England-GBR 29Australia 28Oman 28Italy 28Sweden 27Armenia 26New Zealand 25Lebanon 24Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 23Malaysia 23Norway 23Georgia 22Bahrain 21Iran, Islamic Rep. of 21Chile 19Qatar 17Saudi Arabia 16Morocco 15Syrian Arab Republic 15Macedonia, Rep. of 12Ghana 9Indonesia 9


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 66Colorado-USA 53Connecticut-USA 52Minnesota-USA 51Alberta-CAN 50North Carolina-USA 49California-USA 48Ontario-CAN 45Indiana-USA 45Florida-USA 43Quebec-CAN 35Dubai-UAE 35Alabama-USA 33Abu Dhabi-UAE 29




In which liquid would object float (continued)S052207:

Student Responses

Correct Response: An object has a density of 1.1 g/cm3.


(Check one box.)

Liquid X: 1.3 g/cm3

Liquid Y: 0.9 g/cm3


Incorrect Response: An object has a density of 1.1 g/cm3.


(Check one box.)

Liquid X: 1.3 g/cm3

Liquid Y: 0.9 g/cm3




Content Domain

EARTH SCIENCE

Main Topic

Earth’s Processes, Cycles, and History

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Order of steps in the water cycle

Th e following fi ve statements describe processes involved in the water cycle. Water evaporation from the sea is identifi ed as a fi rst step in the water cycle.

Number the other statements 2 through 5 in the order in which these processes take place.

_____ Water vapor rises in warm air.

_____ Water travels along a river to the sea.

_____ Water evaporates from the sea.

_____ Water vapor is cooled and forms clouds.

_____ Clouds move and water falls on land as rain.

1


SCORINGCorrect Response• 2, 5, 1, 3, 4




Finland 92Hong Kong-CHN 85Singapore 83Chinese Taipei-CHN 82Korea, Rep. of 81Russian Federation 79England-GBR 79Israel 79Sweden 78Lithuania 76Slovenia 76Hungary 74New Zealand 72Australia 71Italy 71United States 71Japan 71Ukraine 69Norway 67Chile 66International average 63Tunisia 62United Arab Emirates 62Thailand 61Oman 60Bahrain 59Iran, Islamic Rep. of 58Jordan 57Romania 56Saudi Arabia 56Kazakhstan 55Georgia 54Turkey 54Lebanon 50Malaysia 49Armenia 47Syrian Arab Republic 46Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 45Indonesia 45Qatar 45Morocco 44Macedonia, Rep. of 37Ghana 14


Percentcorrect

Quebec-CAN 80Minnesota-USA 79Alberta-CAN 77Ontario-CAN 76Massachusetts-USA 76North Carolina-USA 76Colorado-USA 75Indiana-USA 74Florida-USA 73Dubai-UAE 68Connecticut-USA 67California-USA 62Abu Dhabi-UAE 60Alabama-USA 58




Order of steps in the water cycle (continued)S032060:

Student Responses

Correct Response:








1

Incorrect Response:








1



Content Domain

EARTH SCIENCE

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Volcanic eruption effects

State one way that a volcanic eruption can aff ect the environment.


SCORINGCorrect Response• States a negative environmental effect due to volcanic eruptions such as pollution (due to release

of gases, smoke, ash, etc.) or destruction of habitats or plant/animal life (due to lava flow, burning or similar).

Example: Burns away essential plant life.• States a positive environmental effect such as making land fertile, creating new habitats, and

allowing for different life forms.Example: It can make the land surrounding the volcano more fertile.• Other correct

Incorrect Response• Gives only a general statement of destruction or the nature of volcanic eruptions with inadequate

description of how the environment is affected.Example: It can destroy everything.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Singapore 81Slovenia 78Sweden 76Finland 71New Zealand 70Lithuania 70England-GBR 67Russian Federation 63Japan 63Australia 63United States 62Chile 62Korea, Rep. of 58Kazakhstan 58Romania 57Chinese Taipei-CHN 55Hong Kong-CHN 54Hungary 54Norway 49Turkey 49Israel 49Ukraine 49International average 48Thailand 47Indonesia 45Saudi Arabia 45United Arab Emirates 42Italy 41Iran, Islamic Rep. of 37Georgia 34Armenia 32Bahrain 32Jordan 32Qatar 32Malaysia 32Macedonia, Rep. of 31Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 31Lebanon 28Tunisia 28Syrian Arab Republic 27Oman 26Morocco 19Ghana 9


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 70Ontario-CAN 67Colorado-USA 67Connecticut-USA 65Minnesota-USA 65Florida-USA 64Alberta-CAN 61Indiana-USA 59California-USA 58North Carolina-USA 57Quebec-CAN 56Dubai-UAE 51Alabama-USA 46Abu Dhabi-UAE 39




Volcanic eruption effects (continued)S032126:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

EARTH SCIENCE

Main Topic

Earth in the Solar System and the Universe

Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Major cause of tides

Which of the following is the major cause of tides?

A. heating of the oceans by the Sun

B. gravitational pull of the Moon

C. earthquakes on the ocean fl oor

D. changes in wind direction


Correct Response: B



Finland 78Slovenia 76New Zealand 66United States 61Norway 59Sweden 58Italy 57Australia 57Russian Federation 56Korea, Rep. of 55Chinese Taipei-CHN 54Iran, Islamic Rep. of 53Lithuania 53Oman 52England-GBR 52Syrian Arab Republic 50United Arab Emirates 50Hong Kong-CHN 45Japan 44Jordan 44International average 43Ukraine 42Singapore 42Thailand 41Armenia 40Chile 39Bahrain 39Qatar 38Saudi Arabia 37Israel 37Turkey 35Hungary 35Kazakhstan 34Macedonia, Rep. of 32Indonesia 29Georgia 25Romania 25Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 23Morocco 18Ghana 16Malaysia 16Tunisia 15Lebanon 13


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 79Connecticut-USA 75Florida-USA 70Minnesota-USA 66Colorado-USA 66North Carolina-USA 61Indiana-USA 57Alberta-CAN 54Quebec-CAN 51Abu Dhabi-UAE 51California-USA 50Dubai-UAE 49Alabama-USA 44Ontario-CAN 38




Content Domain

EARTH SCIENCE

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Difference between planets and moons

What is the main diff erence between planets and moons in our solar system?

A. All planets can support life; moons cannot.

B. All planets have atmospheres; moons do not.

C. All planets orbit the Sun; all moons orbit planets.

D. All planets are larger than all moons.


Correct Response: C



Korea, Rep. of 88Finland 81Hong Kong-CHN 79Singapore 78England-GBR 76Russian Federation 75Slovenia 75Sweden 74Kazakhstan 73Norway 73Chinese Taipei-CHN 71New Zealand 70Australia 70United States 70Lithuania 69Italy 67Turkey 66Hungary 64Ukraine 64Chile 63Israel 62International average 62Macedonia, Rep. of 60Romania 59United Arab Emirates 59Bahrain 58Qatar 58Armenia 57Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 54Syrian Arab Republic 53Malaysia 53Japan 52Iran, Islamic Rep. of 52Saudi Arabia 52Morocco 52Thailand 51Tunisia 49Jordan 49Georgia 49Oman 46Lebanon 44Indonesia 39Ghana 36


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 77Minnesota-USA 75Florida-USA 73North Carolina-USA 72Indiana-USA 72Alberta-CAN 72Colorado-USA 71Connecticut-USA 71Alabama-USA 69Quebec-CAN 69Ontario-CAN 66California-USA 66Dubai-UAE 63Abu Dhabi-UAE 60




Content Domain

EARTH SCIENCE

Main Topic

Earth’s Resources, Their Use and Conservation

Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Soil change due to natural causes

Soils change both through natural processes and as a result of human activity. Which of the following soil changes is due only to natural causes?

A. degradation of nutrients due to pesticides

B. formation of deserts due to tree felling

C. flooding due to dam construction

D. removal of nutrients due to heavy rains


Correct Response: D



Chinese Taipei-CHN 85Finland 80Japan 80Russian Federation 77Korea, Rep. of 77Hong Kong-CHN 74Hungary 73Singapore 69Turkey 67Israel 67Ukraine 67Italy 66Chile 66Australia 64United States 63England-GBR 62Thailand 61Iran, Islamic Rep. of 60Lithuania 59International average 55Georgia 55New Zealand 54Kazakhstan 54Sweden 52Bahrain 51Armenia 50United Arab Emirates 50Romania 49Slovenia 49Indonesia 48Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 43Syrian Arab Republic 43Qatar 41Saudi Arabia 39Malaysia 39Tunisia 38Ghana 38Macedonia, Rep. of 38Norway 35Oman 35Lebanon 34Jordan 34Morocco 28


Percentcorrect

North Carolina-USA 75Quebec-CAN 74Massachusetts-USA 72Minnesota-USA 71Alberta-CAN 68Indiana-USA 65Ontario-CAN 65Florida-USA 65Connecticut-USA 63Colorado-USA 63Dubai-UAE 57California-USA 55Alabama-USA 49Abu Dhabi-UAE 45




Content Domain

EARTH SCIENCE

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Material that breaks down quickly

Th e following waste materials are buried in a landfi ll. Which will break down most quickly?

A. steel

B. plastic

C. glass

D. paper


Correct Response: D



Finland 91Slovenia 90Lithuania 88Chinese Taipei-CHN 87Hungary 87Hong Kong-CHN 84Thailand 83Sweden 82Korea, Rep. of 81Romania 80Indonesia 79Russian Federation 79Singapore 79Ukraine 77New Zealand 75Japan 75Australia 75United States 74England-GBR 73Armenia 73Italy 72Kazakhstan 72Macedonia, Rep. of 71Georgia 70Norway 70Chile 69International average 68Israel 67Turkey 66Syrian Arab Republic 64Malaysia 61Tunisia 60Jordan 58Iran, Islamic Rep. of 57United Arab Emirates 50Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 49Bahrain 46Saudi Arabia 46Lebanon 45Oman 44Morocco 43Qatar 42Ghana 32


Percentcorrect

Alberta-CAN 82Massachusetts-USA 82Minnesota-USA 79Colorado-USA 79North Carolina-USA 78Florida-USA 78Indiana-USA 77Connecticut-USA 76Ontario-CAN 75Quebec-CAN 73Alabama-USA 71California-USA 61Dubai-UAE 51Abu Dhabi-UAE 49




Content Domain

EARTH SCIENCE

Main Topic

Earth’s Structure and Physical Features

Cognitive Domain

Applying

Changes at high elevations-DERIVED

Tamora is preparing to climb one of the highest mountains on Earth. She knows that the atmospheric conditions will change the higher up the mountain she climbs.

In the table below, write down two atmospheric conditions that will change as Tamora climbs the mountain. State what Tamora needs to bring in order to survive these two conditions at high elevations.

Change in Atmospheric Condition

What Tamora Needs to Bring

1.

2.


SCORINGNote: Each of the two responses are scored separately. However, if the two responses are essentially the same, the second response should be scored as “Incorrect Response”.

Correct Response• Indicates that the temperature will decrease (or similar).Example: The temperature will be colder. [More clothes.]• Indicates that there will be less oxygen (air) or lower atmospheric pressure (or similar).Example: Air will get thinner. [Oxygen mask.]• Indicates increased precipitation (snow, rain) or clouds (or similar).Example: It will get icy. [Bring ice shoes.]• Other correct

Incorrect Response• Mentions a type of equipment, but does not clearly indicate how the atmospheric condition

changes.• Mentions that the atmospheric pressure increases with or without listing oxygen equipment.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task).



Singapore 61Japan 60New Zealand 59Finland 59England-GBR 56Australia 56Hungary 55Korea, Rep. of 53Chinese Taipei-CHN 50Slovenia 49Lithuania 48Israel 46United States 42Hong Kong-CHN 40Norway 40Sweden 39Saudi Arabia 37International average 33Romania 32Russian Federation 32Jordan 31Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 31United Arab Emirates 30Italy 30Tunisia 29Kazakhstan 27Qatar 26Syrian Arab Republic 22Chile 22Bahrain 22Macedonia, Rep. of 21Morocco 20Turkey 20Oman 20Iran, Islamic Rep. of 19Ukraine 18Armenia 15Thailand 14Malaysia 11Indonesia 11Georgia 10Lebanon 9Ghana 3


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 60Minnesota-USA 57Quebec-CAN 56Alberta-CAN 53North Carolina-USA 52Indiana-USA 51Connecticut-USA 50Colorado-USA 49Ontario-CAN 48Florida-USA 42Dubai-UAE 39Abu Dhabi-UAE 31California-USA 30Alabama-USA 29




Changes at high elevations (continued)S032650Z:

Student Responses

Correct Response:



1.

2.

Incorrect Response:



1.

2.



Content Domain

EARTH SCIENCE

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Applying

Topographic map: identify X

The diagram above shows a topographic map of Tiger Island. Th e lines on the map are contour lines that connect points at the same elevation. Th e elevations shown are in meters.

A. What geographical feature is found at point X? _______________________

Tiger Island

Cub Bay

X

50

100

150 250

250

200

350

200


SCORINGCorrect Response• Identifies X as a mountain, hill, peak, summit, highest point, volcano, or similar.

Incorrect Response• Identifies X as a crater, valley, hole, or similar (misinterpretation that contour lines indicate

decreasing elevation).• Identifies X as a water feature.• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Finland 84Chinese Taipei-CHN 81Slovenia 70Singapore 68Russian Federation 67Hungary 66Hong Kong-CHN 64Norway 61Australia 61Lithuania 60Korea, Rep. of 60United States 59Ukraine 57England-GBR 56Italy 54Japan 52Israel 47New Zealand 45Sweden 43International average 38Kazakhstan 35Iran, Islamic Rep. of 31Turkey 31Romania 30Macedonia, Rep. of 28Malaysia 27Georgia 25United Arab Emirates 23Thailand 22Chile 22Saudi Arabia 22Jordan 21Bahrain 21Armenia 20Qatar 18Syrian Arab Republic 17Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 15Lebanon 11Morocco 10Tunisia 10Indonesia 9Oman 9Ghana 4


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 82Minnesota-USA 70Colorado-USA 65North Carolina-USA 63Indiana-USA 61Connecticut-USA 60Alberta-CAN 58Quebec-CAN 57Florida-USA 51Ontario-CAN 50California-USA 45Alabama-USA 38Dubai-UAE 30Abu Dhabi-UAE 23




Content Domain

EARTH SCIENCE

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Topographic map: river path

Tiger Island

X

50

100

150 250

250

200

350

200

Cub Bay

The diagram above shows a topographic map of Tiger Island. The lines on the map are contour lines that connect points at the same elevation. The elevations shown are in meters.

B. Think about the source of rivers and how they flow. Now draw the path ofa river between point X and Cub Bay. Use an arrow to indicate on the mapwhich direction the river will flow.


SCORINGCorrect Response• Draws a correct path WITH arrow(s) indicating correct direction (see diagram below).[Path runs from point X downhill to Cub Bay and between the smaller hill(s). Includes arrow(s) that

indicates direction of flow from mountain to the sea.]• Draws a correct path (as described in first bullet) but OPPOSITE direction of arrow is shown (from

sea to mountain).• Draws a correct path (as described in first bullet) but NO arrow is shown.• Other correct

Incorrect Response• Draws a direct path that goes over the next smaller hill with or without arrow(s) (see diagram

below).• Draws a path that circles around hill(s) by following contour lines with or without arrow(s) (see

diagram below).• Other incorrect (including crossed out, erased, stray marks, illegible, or off task)



Japan 47Slovenia 46Chinese Taipei-CHN 40Finland 38Korea, Rep. of 37Russian Federation 35Hong Kong-CHN 30Australia 30Singapore 30Sweden 29Iran, Islamic Rep. of 25Norway 25Hungary 24Lithuania 24Ukraine 24Kazakhstan 23England-GBR 21Italy 21United States 21New Zealand 20International average 19Malaysia 18Romania 17Israel 14Jordan 13Macedonia, Rep. of 13Tunisia 12Chile 12Bahrain 11Qatar 10United Arab Emirates 9Turkey 9Morocco 9Georgia 8Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 8Oman 7Armenia 7Syrian Arab Republic 7Lebanon 6Indonesia 5Thailand 2Ghana 1Saudi Arabia 1


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 37Alberta-CAN 35Ontario-CAN 26Minnesota-USA 25Quebec-CAN 25Colorado-USA 23North Carolina-USA 21Connecticut-USA 20California-USA 20Indiana-USA 17Florida-USA 14Alabama-USA 13Dubai-UAE 11Abu Dhabi-UAE 10




Topographic map: river path (continued)S032651B:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Th e diagram above shows a topographic map of Tiger Island. Th e lines on the map are contour lines that connect points at the same elevation. Th e elevations shown are in meters.

B. T h ink about the source of rivers and how they fl ow. Now draw the path of a river between point X and Cub Bay. Use an arrow to indicate on the map which direction the river will fl ow.

Tiger Island

Cub Bay

X

50

100

150 250

250

200

350

200

Incorrect Response:

Th e diagram above shows a topographic map of Tiger Island. Th e lines on the map are contour lines that connect points at the same elevation. Th e elevations shown are in meters.

B. T h ink about the source of rivers and how they fl ow. Now draw the path of a river between point X and Cub Bay. Use an arrow to indicate on the map which direction the river will fl ow.

Tiger Island

Cub Bay

X

50

100

150 250

250

200

350

200



Content Domain

EARTH SCIENCE

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Location of jungle

The diagram above shows the prevailing wind direction, precipitation, and average air temperatures at diff erent elevations on both sides of a mountain. In which location are you most likely to fi nd a jungle?

A. location 1

B. location 2

C. location 3

D. location 4

Sea Level

PrevailingWind

25˚C

20˚C

15˚C

10˚C

9˚C

14˚C

19˚C

24˚C

29˚C

3

5˚CClouds and

precipitation

1

2

4


Correct Response: A



Slovenia 71Finland 70Russian Federation 65Hungary 65Chinese Taipei-CHN 64Hong Kong-CHN 64Lithuania 62Iran, Islamic Rep. of 59Sweden 58Ukraine 57Singapore 56United States 56Japan 56Korea, Rep. of 55Turkey 55Australia 53Norway 53United Arab Emirates 51New Zealand 50Italy 49Israel 49England-GBR 48International average 47Macedonia, Rep. of 46Oman 45Qatar 45Chile 44Tunisia 43Saudi Arabia 43Jordan 41Malaysia 38Thailand 37Romania 36Bahrain 34Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 33Armenia 33Georgia 30Indonesia 29Lebanon 27Morocco 25Syrian Arab Republic 25Kazakhstan 24Ghana 22


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 66Minnesota-USA 64Colorado-USA 63Florida-USA 57Alberta-CAN 56Connecticut-USA 55Indiana-USA 54Ontario-CAN 54North Carolina-USA 53Dubai-UAE 51Abu Dhabi-UAE 51California-USA 51Quebec-CAN 48Alabama-USA 46




Content Domain

EARTH SCIENCE

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Where active volcanoes are found

Where are active volcanoes most likely to be found?

A. where rivers form

B. where tectonic plates meet

C. where oceans are deepest

D. where land and water meet


Correct Response: B



Finland 93Hong Kong-CHN 89Lithuania 87Russian Federation 85Slovenia 85England-GBR 84Chinese Taipei-CHN 81Sweden 80Ukraine 80Australia 79Italy 78Korea, Rep. of 78United States 77Romania 74New Zealand 74Kazakhstan 73Singapore 73Norway 72Israel 72Chile 71Armenia 70Bahrain 70Japan 69Morocco 69United Arab Emirates 67Hungary 67International average 65Thailand 64Oman 61Macedonia, Rep. of 60Iran, Islamic Rep. of 58Tunisia 53Qatar 51Saudi Arabia 50Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 47Indonesia 46Syrian Arab Republic 44Georgia 44Jordan 43Turkey 42Malaysia 36Lebanon 32Ghana 21


Percentcorrect

Quebec-CAN 88Minnesota-USA 87Massachusetts-USA 86North Carolina-USA 85Colorado-USA 84Indiana-USA 84Alberta-CAN 82Connecticut-USA 79Florida-USA 75Ontario-CAN 69Alabama-USA 68California-USA 67Dubai-UAE 67Abu Dhabi-UAE 66




Content Domain

EARTH SCIENCE

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Applying

Diagram of an eclipse of the moon

Which diagram shows the position of the Sun (S), moon (M), and Earth (E) during an eclipse of the moon? (Not drawn to scale)

A.

B.

C.

D.

S

M E

S

M

E

S

ME

S

M

E


Correct Response: D



Iran, Islamic Rep. of 53Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 50Finland 49Armenia 46Korea, Rep. of 44Norway 44Ukraine 43Saudi Arabia 43Hungary 42Slovenia 42Bahrain 40Macedonia, Rep. of 40Japan 39Chinese Taipei-CHN 38Hong Kong-CHN 38Oman 38Malaysia 37International average 35Lithuania 34Sweden 34Israel 34Kazakhstan 33Syrian Arab Republic 33Indonesia 32Italy 32Russian Federation 32Thailand 31Georgia 31Morocco 31Qatar 31United Arab Emirates 30Lebanon 30Turkey 30Singapore 30Jordan 29Romania 29United States 28Tunisia 26England-GBR 26New Zealand 25Australia 23Chile 19Ghana 17


Percentcorrect

Connecticut-USA 40Quebec-CAN 40Massachusetts-USA 37Florida-USA 35Minnesota-USA 32Colorado-USA 30California-USA 30Abu Dhabi-UAE 30North Carolina-USA 29Dubai-UAE 28Alberta-CAN 27Indiana-USA 27Alabama-USA 25Ontario-CAN 22




Content Domain

EARTH SCIENCE

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Applying

Evaporated water ending up as rain

How does water that has evaporated from the sea end up as rain on land many miles away?


SCORINGCorrect Response• Mentions two OR three of the factors indicated below.a. Clouds form (condensation) b. The clouds move to land (blown by the wind)c. Rain falls from clouds (because drops become too heavy/temperature drops).Example: That’s because there will be condensation and the clouds form. The clouds move to land

and when temperatures drop the water in the clouds condenses and fall as rain.

Partially Correct Response• Mentions only one factor indicated above.Example: Water vapor condenses into clouds. (a)




Singapore 70Finland 66Japan 65Hong Kong-CHN 63Iran, Islamic Rep. of 62Russian Federation 61Australia 61Korea, Rep. of 59Norway 57England-GBR 57Israel 56United States 56Chinese Taipei-CHN 55Sweden 55Lithuania 51Hungary 48New Zealand 48Oman 47Slovenia 47Italy 47United Arab Emirates 45Jordan 45Turkey 44Chile 44Ukraine 42International average 42Bahrain 39Qatar 34Kazakhstan 32Thailand 31Syrian Arab Republic 29Tunisia 27Saudi Arabia 24Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 23Romania 23Georgia 22Indonesia 21Morocco 20Macedonia, Rep. of 19Lebanon 18Armenia 16Malaysia 16Ghana 9


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 69Minnesota-USA 68Colorado-USA 67Indiana-USA 58Alberta-CAN 57North Carolina-USA 56Ontario-CAN 56Florida-USA 54Connecticut-USA 54California-USA 50Quebec-CAN 48Abu Dhabi-UAE 47Dubai-UAE 47Alabama-USA 41




Evaporated water ending up as rain (continued)S042317:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

EARTH SCIENCE

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Reasoning

Evidence continents were joined

Two continents are separated by water.

Geologists are looking for evidence that the two continents were once joined.

What fossil evidence would support this idea?


SCORINGCorrect Response• Explains that fossils from identical (land) organisms (that cannot fly or swim) can be found on both

continents.Examples:The same species of extinct animals are found on the two continents.If the same fossilized animals are found on both continents.




Iran, Islamic Rep. of 48Japan 43Italy 38United States 37Israel 34Chinese Taipei-CHN 32Russian Federation 31Slovenia 29Korea, Rep. of 28England-GBR 28New Zealand 27Australia 27Sweden 24Lithuania 23Singapore 22Romania 21Kazakhstan 20Ukraine 20Norway 20Hong Kong-CHN 19International average 18Finland 18Jordan 17Chile 15United Arab Emirates 15Syrian Arab Republic 13Hungary 12Oman 10Macedonia, Rep. of 9Turkey 8Armenia 8Georgia 8Thailand 8Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 7Qatar 6Indonesia 5Morocco 5Malaysia 5Bahrain 5Lebanon 3Saudi Arabia 3Tunisia 2Ghana —


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 58Minnesota-USA 53North Carolina-USA 46Alberta-CAN 46Colorado-USA 44Indiana-USA 41Connecticut-USA 38Florida-USA 35California-USA 32Ontario-CAN 29Quebec-CAN 21Alabama-USA 19Dubai-UAE 16Abu Dhabi-UAE 15


— Not applicable



Evidence continents were joined (continued)S052032:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:



Content Domain

EARTH SCIENCE

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Applying

Advantage of terracing method

The diagram below shows a fi eld on a slope that is being farmed using the terracing method.

Write one advantage of using the method of farming shown in the diagram.

terracing


SCORINGCorrect Response• Writes one advantage of using the terracing method from the list of acceptable responses below.Allows farming to be done on a slope (utilize more land)Run-off slowed down (prevents crops from washing away)Prevents soil erosion (landslides, rock slides)Able to grow different cropsRetains water so crops are healthier/need less wateringExamples:You can farm in steep places.Helps to avoid the washing away of crops on hills.




Singapore 56Chinese Taipei-CHN 52Slovenia 51Japan 49Korea, Rep. of 41Turkey 40Italy 38Hong Kong-CHN 37Malaysia 34Hungary 33Russian Federation 32United States 32Indonesia 31England-GBR 30Romania 30Thailand 30Israel 27Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 27Australia 27International average 26Syrian Arab Republic 24Kazakhstan 22Jordan 22Norway 22Tunisia 22Finland 21Lithuania 20United Arab Emirates 20New Zealand 17Iran, Islamic Rep. of 17Ukraine 17Armenia 16Oman 16Morocco 14Saudi Arabia 14Bahrain 14Lebanon 13Qatar 13Georgia 13Macedonia, Rep. of 11Sweden 11Chile 10Ghana 8


Percentcorrect

Massachusetts-USA 42Minnesota-USA 40Connecticut-USA 34Colorado-USA 34Florida-USA 33Indiana-USA 32North Carolina-USA 32Alberta-CAN 31California-USA 30Dubai-UAE 28Quebec-CAN 24Alabama-USA 23Ontario-CAN 23Abu Dhabi-UAE 17




Advantage of terracing method (continued)S052106:

Student Responses

Correct Response:

Incorrect Response:




Content Domain

EARTH SCIENCE

Main Topic


Cognitive Domain

Knowing

Holes in volcanic rocks

Some volcanic rocks have many holes in them.

How were the holes made?

A. Insects dug into the rock when it was soft .

B. Gas bubbles were trapped in the rock when it cooled.

C. Rain dropped on the rock when it was soft .

D. Small stones fell out of the rock when it cooled.


Correct Response: B



Korea, Rep. of 90Australia 84New Zealand 84United States 81England-GBR 80Japan 77Singapore 76Russian Federation 75Norway 75Slovenia 72Hungary 71Italy 68Finland 68Hong Kong-CHN 64Sweden 64Thailand 64Ukraine 61Georgia 60Romania 60International average 57Israel 57Kazakhstan 57Lithuania 54United Arab Emirates 52Chinese Taipei-CHN 50Chile 49Qatar 48Armenia 47Lebanon 46Turkey 46Bahrain 46Morocco 46Oman 45Syrian Arab Republic 45Iran, Islamic Rep. of 45Malaysia 42Tunisia 40Indonesia 40Jordan 39Saudi Arabia 39Palestinian Nat’l Auth. 38Macedonia, Rep. of 35Ghana 25


Percentcorrect

Minnesota-USA 91Colorado-USA 89Alberta-CAN 88Massachusetts-USA 88Ontario-CAN 85Quebec-CAN 84Indiana-USA 83Connecticut-USA 79California-USA 79Florida-USA 78North Carolina-USA 78Alabama-USA 74Dubai-UAE 58Abu Dhabi-UAE 49


released science items 8 - national center for …nces.ed.gov/timss/pdf/timss2011_g8_science.pdf ·...

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