An informational reading comprehension lesson exploring the deep-sea ecology and technological challenges of the Mariana Trench. Students analyze nonfiction text, practice evidence-based comprehension, and examine biological adaptations in extreme environments.
Midnight Abyss • Teacher Reference & Answer Key Page 1 of 2 • Continue to Written Responses
Part 3 • Written Responses
Scoring Criteria & Exemplar Responses
Total Written Points: 12 Points
Question 5: Functions of Bioluminescence (3 Points) Short Response
Model Student Exemplar:"In the Hadal Zone, fish use bioluminescence like living lanterns to attract prey into their mouths and to confuse predators so they can escape. They also use light signals to communicate with potential mates in the pitch dark."
3 Points: Identifies two distinct purposes directly from text (attract prey, confuse predators, or signal mates) in complete sentences.
2 Points: Identifies only one purpose clearly, or mentions two without explaining their survival function.
0–1 Point: Vague response (e.g., "to see") without textual support, or scientifically inaccurate answer.
Question 6: Role of Marine Snow (3 Points) Short Response
Model Student Exemplar:"Marine snow consists of dead organic material that drifts down from the upper ocean layers to the sea floor. Deep-sea amphipods rely on this falling debris as their main food source because plants cannot grow without sunlight."
3 Points: Accurately defines marine snow as sinking organic matter AND names amphipods/scavengers that depend on it for food.
2 Points: Identifies amphipods or scavengers but gives an incomplete definition of marine snow (or vice versa).
0–1 Point: Misinterprets marine snow as frozen ocean ice, or fails to connect it to deep-sea food webs.
Question 7: Deep Ocean vs Space Exploration (6 Points) Extended Response
Model Student Exemplar:"Exploring the Mariana Trench is very similar to space exploration because both environments are completely deadly to unprotected humans. In the trench, temperatures are freezing, there is no sunlight, and the water pressure would crush an ordinary vessel, much like the vacuum and cold of space. To survive, explorers must design specialized titanium submersibles just like astronauts build spacecraft. Finally, both environments reveal bizarre, unfamiliar creatures that look like alien life."
Criteria
Advanced (2 pts)
Proficient (1 pt)
Developing (0 pts)
1. Harsh Conditions
Compares pitch darkness, freezing cold, or crushing pressure to space.
Mentions one condition with limited or generic comparison.
Omits environmental conditions or states inaccuracies.
2. Technology & Gear
Explicitly cites titanium submersibles or protective vessels like spacecraft.
Briefly mentions machines or submarines without connection.
No reference to specialized exploration technology.
3. Scientific Discoveries
Highlights alien-like creatures (snailfish, bioluminescence) and new frontiers.
Mentions finding new fish with basic detail.
No mention of scientific discoveries or findings.
Instructional Tip for Review: Use Question 4 to reinforce author's craft and how writers use concrete analogies (Mount Everest) to help readers comprehend unfathomable scientific measurements.
