(1) A graduating student at the proficient level in science demonstrates solid academic performance. He/she:

(a) generates testable questions, safely constructs a plan for a controlled investigation, makes logical inferences based on observations, accurately interprets data by identifying the strengths and weaknesses in an investigation design, communicates results, and describes and explains that observation is a key inquiry process used by Montana American Indians;

(b) uses physical, mental, theoretical, and mathematical models to investigate individually generated problems and/or questions about physical and chemical phenomena;

(c) organizes, classifies, and describes interactions of the biotic (living) and abiotic (nonliving) parts of the biosphere as well as the natural history of interactions of life on earth and uses these skills to solve related, novel (to the student) problems;

(d) describes, explains, and models the processes that occur in the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere of the earth and the universe;

(e) analyzes and communicates connections and interactions among technology, science, and society by applying scientific inquiry;

(f) makes informed decisions about scientific and social issues based on observations, data, analysis, and knowledge of the natural world and effectively communicates those decisions to others;

(g) identifies the positive and negative impacts of past, present, and future technological and scientific advances, with direction, gives possible solutions that may minimize the negative impacts on the global community, and describes and explains how science and technology apply to contemporary Montana American Indian communities; and

(h) analyzes and explains Montana American Indian contributions to scientific and technological knowledge and analyzes and explains the historical impact of scientific and technological advances, including Montana American Indian examples.