(1) An eighth-grade student at the nearing-proficiency level in science demonstrates partial mastery of the prerequisite knowledge and skills fundamental for proficiency in science. He/she:

(a) with step-by-step direction, identifies and communicates testable questions, safely plans a controlled investigation, making simple inferences based on observations and interpretation of data, and communicates that observation is a key inquiry process used by Montana American Indians;

(b) gives explanations describing the physical world through the use of simple chemical reactions, chemical formulas, physical laws, and physical models;

(c) describes interactions of the biotic (living) and abiotic (nonliving) parts of the biosphere, uses common classification schemes, and lists examples of the interdependence of life and the environment;

(d) describes the basic structure and function of the earth's lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere and the universe;

(e) with direction, describes connections and interactions among technology, science, and society by applying scientific inquiry;

(f) expresses how current events impact local problems and, with prompting, can discuss scientific information that affects these problems;

(g) with direction, identifies and describes examples of how science and technology are the results of human activity throughout history, with direction, seeks new information that connects past to present, and describes influences of science and technology on Montana American Indian cultures; and

(h) with direction, describes examples of Montana American Indian contributions to scientific and technological knowledge.