Scoring Rubric

Debating Endangered Species

Overview: In the context of methods of reproduction and how species change through time, students examine factors relating to species endangerment and debate whether all endangered species can and should be saved.

Assessed Items	Points	What to Look For
Report on how method of reproduction and species endangerment are related	3	Research and presentation reflect full understanding that sexual reproduction helps ensure survival of a species, but that asexual reproduction has also produced some very hardy species.
	2	Research and presentation reflect some understanding of complexity of issue.
	1	Research and presentation reflect a lack of understanding.
Poster or chart of endangered species: specialists vs. generalists	3	Poster is nicely rendered; reflects research that shows generealists are less likely than specialists to become endangered.
	2	Poster is proficiently rendered; some understanding shown.
	1	Poster is not well-rendered, reflecting lack of understanding.
Making "fossils" of endangered species	3	Fossil is of endangered species and is well-made in cast or mold model.
	2	Fossil is of endangered species; model is adequately executed.
	1	Fossil of extint or not endangered species; model is not well made.
Debate	3	Debate skills show research and preparedness; assimilation of information on reproduction, heredity, and change through time synthesized.
	2	Adequate research and preparedness; good assimilation and use of information.
	1	Poor research and preparedness; incomplete assimilation and use of information incomplete.