(1) The benchmark for social studies content standard 1 for a student at the end of grade 8 is the ability to:

(a) apply the steps of an inquiry process (i.e., identify question or problem, locate and evaluate potential resources, gather and synthesize information, create a new product, and evaluate product and process) ;

(b) assess the quality of information (e.g., primary or secondary sources, point of view and embedded values of the author) ; and

(c) interpret and apply information to support conclusions and use group decision making strategies to solve problems in real world situations (e.g., school elections, community projects, conflict resolution, role playing scenarios) .